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Michigan Marks August As Breastfeeding Month
Russ Survance
Wed, 05 Aug 2026 08:42:19 EDT
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Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed August as Breastfeeding Month in Michigan, highlighting the importance of breastfeeding as a public health priority and encouraging greater support for families across the state.
State health officials say breastfeeding can improve health outcomes for both infants and mothers. Medical experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months of a baby's life, with continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods for up to two years or longer if desired by the family.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 87 percent of families in the state begin breastfeeding. However, officials say disparities remain, with lower breastfeeding rates among some communities due to barriers such as limited access to lactation support, childcare and paid family leave.
To help address those challenges, Michigan is expanding breastfeeding education for healthcare providers, increasing access to lactation consultants and community-based support programs, and continuing investments in childcare and maternal health services.
The state's Women, Infants and Children, or WIC, program is recognizing Breastfeeding Month with the theme "Rooting for You." WIC continues to offer free lactation support through telehealth, telephone and in-person visits, along with a statewide breastfeeding warmline available seven days a week.
