August is recognized as National Breastfeeding Month, with this year’s theme Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All. This month-long observance celebrates the diverse experiences of breastfeeding journeys and emphasizes the importance of providing comprehensive support to all breastfeeding families. Through various events and educational initiatives, the Department of Health aims to highlight the critical role of breastfeeding in infant and maternal health, while advocating for inclusive and equitable breastfeeding practices.

“Breastfeeding is crucial for a child’s survival and development, with many key benefits,” said Minister of Health, Kim Wilson. “Observing National Breastfeeding Month promotes the importance of breastfeeding for infant and maternal health, encourages support for breastfeeding mothers, and educates the public about best practices.”

Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for infants and mothers, making it the optimal choice for infant nutrition. It supports the healthy development of infants, provides essential nutrients, boosts their immune systems, and reduces the risk of common diseases.

From a financial perspective, breastfeeding can significantly reduce household expenses by eliminating the need for formula, bottles, and other feeding supplies. This can be a substantial economic relief for many families.

“Support and education are crucial for enhancing breastfeeding rates and duration. Educating mothers about breastfeeding techniques, benefits, and problem-solving strategies can improve their breastfeeding experience and success,” said Kelly Crampton Public Health Nurse for the Bermuda Department of Health.

“Access to breastfeeding-friendly spaces is crucial for supporting breastfeeding mothers, enabling them to nurse comfortably and confidently in public. These spaces promote a culture of acceptance and encouragement, helping to normalize breastfeeding and ensuring that mothers feel supported and empowered to meet their breastfeeding goals.”

 The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond. 

These guidelines underscore the critical role of breastfeeding in promoting lifelong health and well-being.

Events celebrating National Breastfeeding Month include:

August 5 – 9: Breastfeeding photo display at the Washington Mall. Photos of mothers and babies from our community. The public is invited to come and view these portraits and accompanying narratives.

Bermuda Health-Abets is a podcast dedicated to discussing all aspects of healthy living, from A to Z. Their mission is to empower, inform, and motivate Bermuda residents to live well. This podcast, produced by the Health Promotion and Wellness Office of the Department of Health, has been active since April 2024. It airs on the Department of Health's Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Upcoming Episodes:

• August 5th: "Let’s Talk about Breastfeeding"

Guest: Rita Stevens, a registered nurse, birth worker, and educator with her business, BirthPlus.

Topic: The benefits of breastfeeding, challenges that mothers may face, and available support resources.

•  August 12th: "The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative"

Guest: Nurse Nicole Harvey, a registered nurse and Clinical Manager for the Maternity Ward and Special Care Baby Unit at BHB.

Topic: The implementation and significance of the Baby Friendly Hospital 

• August 21st: 6:30 PM at National Stadium, a documentary screening of MILK – Born Into This World, a film by Noemi Weis. Through an intimate and artistic lens, MILK brings a universal perspective on the politics, commercialization, and controversies surrounding birth and infant feeding over the canvas of stunningly beautiful visuals and poignant voices from around the globe. Inspiring, informative, provocative, and sensitive, MILK celebrates bringing a new life into this world with a strong call to action and reflection.

A Registry of Breastfeeding-Friendly Businesses will be released at the end of August.

For more information about the health benefits of breastfeeding and resources available to support breastfeeding mothers, please visit https://www.gov.bm/breastfeeding.