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For the Love of Milk: Honoring National Breastfeeding Month & Black Breastfeeding Week

August is National Breastfeeding Month. August 25 to 31 is Black Breastfeeding Week. This is a time to celebrate, educate, and make sure every family gets the support they need to feed their baby with confidence.



Why this month matters for Black moms, caregivers & families in Delaware


Breastfeeding is powerful, but not every family has the same access to support. In Delaware, many parents start breastfeeding, but the numbers drop more quickly for Black families. Black babies in Delaware are also nearly three times more likely to die before their first birthday than white babies. More breastfeeding support can help change this.


These differences are not because Black moms do not want to breastfeed. They are caused by barriers like lack of support in hospitals, limited paid leave, jobs without private pumping spaces, transportation issues, and fewer lactation providers who share culture and lived experience. Black Breastfeeding Week was created to shine a light on these issues and bring change.


Black Breastfeeding Week: Highlighting Challenges and Supporting Black Families from August 25-31, 2025
Black Breastfeeding Week: Highlighting Challenges and Supporting Black Families from August 25-31, 2025


Breast milk facts that may surprise you


  • It changes during the day. Morning milk is not the same as nighttime milk. It has different hormones that can even help babies sleep better at night.

  • It helps fight sickness. Breast milk carries antibodies that protect babies from the same germs their parents are exposed to.

  • It grows with your baby. The nutrients in breast milk change as your baby gets older to match what they need.

  • How long is best? Doctors recommend only breast milk for the first 6 months. After that, keep breastfeeding while adding solid foods, for up to 2 years or more if it works for you and your baby.



Tips for feeding success


A tender moment captured as a mother breastfeeds her newborn in a serene and nurturing environment
A tender moment captured as a mother breastfeeds her newborn in a serene and nurturing environment

  • Before birth: Ask your hospital or birth center if they offer skin-to-skin time, rooming-in, and lactation help.

  • First hour: Try to put your baby skin-to-skin and start feeding soon after birth. This helps your milk come in and builds bonding.

  • Feed often: New babies usually eat 8 to 12 times a day.

  • Watch your baby: Look for signs your baby is getting milk, like swallowing, softer breasts, and a calmer baby, instead of just checking the clock.

  • Pumping at work: Practice with your pump before going back. Store milk safely and write the date on each bottle or bag.

  • Ask for help: If feeding hurts or you are worried about milk supply, get help right away. Support can make a big difference.



Your rights when it comes to breastfeeding and pumping


  • In public: Delaware law says you can breastfeed anywhere you are allowed to be.

  • At work: Delaware law requires employers with 4 or more employees to give break time and a private space (not a bathroom) to pump milk. Employers cannot discriminate based on pregnancy or lactation.

  • Federal protections: The PUMP Act (2023) requires most workplaces to provide break time and space for pumping. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (2023) also requires reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy and lactation.


Delaware breastfeeding snapshot


  • In Delaware, most families try breastfeeding. In 2019, about 8 out of 10 babies were breastfed at least once.

  • Over the last decade, the number of parents starting breastfeeding has grown from about 8 out of 10 to almost 9 out of 10.

  • More parents are also continuing breastfeeding, rising from about 5 out of 10 to 6 out of 10.

  • But there is still a big gap. In 2021, about half of Black parents were breastfeeding compared to almost two-thirds of White parents.



How our Referral Program can help


Feeding your baby should feel supported, not stressful. MB&B's Referral Program connects families to:


  • Lactation consultants and peer counselors

  • Perinatal mental health providers

  • Doulas and Midwives

  • Help with workplace pumping and accommodations

  • Local resources like WIC, Baby-Friendly hospitals, and support groups


If you or someone you know is having a hard time with feeding, pain, supply, or pumping at work, reach out. The program will connect you to care that is professional, compassionate, and culturally grounded.




Celebrate and support this August


A mother lovingly gazes at her newborn while sitting in a cozy chair
A mother lovingly gazes at her newborn while sitting in a cozy chair

This month, show support for a mom's feeding journey. Share a meal, give a ride to a lactation visit, or cover a work shift so a parent can pump. From August 25 to 31, join us in honoring Black Breastfeeding Week. Let's close the gap and make sure every baby has the best start.




 
 
 

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