Breastfeeding Awareness: National Breastfeeding Month
By Alisha Reese, CMT
JA Health Editor
August is National Breastfeeding Month (NBM), and FMOL Health | St. Dominic continues to raise awareness in the community by promoting the many benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and baby. Valerie Harris, lactation specialist and clinical expert, provided valuable information to support breastfeeding mothers, while also sharing the educational resources available at St. Dominic.
When we think of breastfeeding, we usually think of nutrition – but for mother and child, it represents so much more than everyday nourishment. Harris highlighted how skin-to-skin contact promotes bonding, building a safe, loving relationship right from the start. Breastfeeding also acts as an initial shield against illness for newborns. As Harris put it, “It’s almost like getting a vaccine without getting a vaccine.” She further explained that breast milk helps regulate babies’ temperatures, heart rates, and their sugar levels. Breastfed babies also have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and type 1 diabetes. For the mother, this natural process has similar benefits! It lowers their risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Another key benefit for families is that breastfeeding saves money. When asked about the suggested timeframes to breastfeed, Harris referenced The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. As solids are introduced, continued nursing is supported for up to two years and beyond.
As breastfeeding support continues to evolve, nursing moms are discovering more dedicated, private spaces to feed their babies. Lactation rooms make it easier for mothers to breastfeed or pump comfortably and privately while balancing work, school, travel, and everyday responsibilities. Throughout the U.S., lactation rooms have grown significantly thanks to federal laws like the PUMP Act and the growing demand as more families choose natural approaches to nourish their babies. Harris pointed out Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport as one of those public locations supporting moms while they travel. She proudly shared that her daughter was able to travel the world while breastfeeding her two children.
Harris believes success begins with practical support, including teaching mothers proper latch and positioning, helping them recognize hunger cues, understanding newborn feeding frequency, and knowing what to expect during the first days of life. For mothers who plan to pump and store breast milk, certified lactation experts offer consultations to answer any questions you may have on your journey. This needed support extends to mom, baby and even dad! To inquire about free breastfeeding classes or to schedule a consultation, contact St. Dominic’s Maternal Newborn Care at (601) 202-3489.
NBM Weekly Focus: Black Breastfeeding Week | August 25-31
A Mother’s Breastfeeding Journey: For Jackson resident Johnnie Suzette, breastfeeding was in her plan long before pregnancy. As Black Breastfeeding Week is observed from August 25-31, stories like hers offer an opportunity to celebrate families choosing this ancestral path, honoring both motherhood and time-tested health traditions.
Suzette was very intentional about nursing her children. At the age of 35, she delivered a beautiful baby girl whom she breastfed for five months. Suzette described the experience as a wonderful bonding connection and was devastated when she had to stop after receiving an autoimmune diagnosis. Four years later, her family grew with the birth of her son – who is now two years old and still happily breastfeeding. Suzette was very knowledgeable about the many health benefits of breast milk, but she was especially passionate about one benefit: it’s free! I breastfed both of my little ones way back when and felt that one hundred percent. With the rising cost of food and other necessities, nursing is also a practical way to reduce overall household expenses.
Her other reasons were straightforward: the immune support – what she described as a “natural vaccine” – along with easy digestion and healthy development. Suzette and her husband have fully embraced their breastfeeding journey. She recalls people staring at her in public while nursing her oldest child. With growing understanding and support in the community, she says it doesn’t happen as much today. As a holistic family, they have never felt ashamed of their natural approach to life. Her encouragement to other women is simple: research, learn, and know as much as possible before becoming a mother. It may not always be easy or feel good but it is definitely worth it.
