August and September marks National Breastfeeding Month and Workplace Lactation Week, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the importance of chest/breastfeeding. This year's Breastfeeding Month theme, "Nourish, Sustain, Thrive” emphasizes the ongoing need for education, support, and advocacy for parents.

Why Chest/Breastfeeding Matters

Lactation offers countless benefits for both infants and mothers, including:

●      Optimal Nutrition: Human milk provides the ideal balance of nutrients for babies' growth and development.

●      Immune System Boost: Antibodies in breast milk protect infants from infections and diseases.

●      Bonding: Breastfeeding fosters a strong emotional connection between mothers and their babies.

●      Health Benefits for Moms: Nursing can reduce the risk of certain cancers, postpartum depression, and other health conditions.

Resources for Breastfeeding Families

Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned pro, accessing the right resources can make a world of difference in your breastfeeding journey. Here are a few valuable resources available:

●      La Leche League: Offers support groups, information, and counseling for breastfeeding mothers.

●      The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine: Provides evidence-based information and resources for healthcare professionals and families.

●      Reputable Lactation Blogs: Look for comprehensive online resources with articles and FAQs on chest/breastfeeding.

●      Local Support Groups: Connect with other nursing parents in your community for advice and camaraderie, check out the in-person support group every Thursday at 10am in Burlingame!

●      Lactation Consultants: Seek professional guidance from certified lactation consultants (IBCLCs) to address specific challenges or concerns.

Healthy Horizons 7th Annual Lactation Room Contest

In honor of World Breastfeeding Month and Workplace Lactation Week, Healthy Horizons is excited to announce our 7th Annual Lactation Room Contest! We believe that all working parents deserve access to comfortable, private, and well-equipped lactation spaces. This year’s contest will give away $20,000 in prizes to workplaces and parents, and is Healthy Horizons’ largest giveaway yet!

How to Nominate:

Do you know a workplace that could use a lactation room upgrade? Nominate them bySeptember 7, 2024 for a chance to win lactation equipment, furniture, services, and supplies.

This year, we're offering three prizes for workplaces and lactating parents, with a combined value of $20,000! Visit https://www.healthyhorizons.com/blogs/blog/lactation-room-contest-2024 to learn more and nominate a deserving organization.

Additional Events and Initiatives

Throughout August and September, many communities host special events and initiatives to celebrate Breastfeeding Month. Check your local listings for breastfeeding workshops, support group meetings, and other educational opportunities. Some events in our local community include:

●      Free Back to Work Lactation & Pumping Class on Friday, September 6, 2024 at 10am PST.

●      Walk for Breastfeeding Awareness in Burlingame, CA on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 9:45am (1-mile stroller and pet friendly walk on Burlingame Ave with free pastries)

Let's Celebrate Breastfeeding Together

Join us in celebrating Breastfeeding Month! By raising awareness, supporting nursing families, and advocating for workplace lactation accommodations, we can create a more breastfeeding-friendly world.

Remember: Every breastfeeding journey is unique. Celebrate your successes, seek help when needed, and embrace the special bond that breastfeeding creates.

Thank you to Healthy Horizons for this blog piece!  Check out www.HealthyHorizons.com