At a glance
Families, health care providers, and early care and education providers can help mothers reach their breastfeeding goals.
For families
How long should infants be breastfed?
Exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months is recommended. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends continued breastfeeding while introducing appropriate complementary foods until children are 12 months or older. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years or longer.
Storing and preparing breast milk
How to safely store, prepare, and transport expressed breast milk.
Feeding your child safely during a disaster
Precautions to take when feeding your infant after a flood, hurricane, or other emergency.
Cleaning infant feeding items
How to clean your breast pump and other infant feeding items to keep your baby healthy.
For health care and childcare providers
Supporting infant feeding in early care and education programs
Tools and resources to support breastfeeding, storing breast milk, and introducing solid foods.
Supporting breastfeeding and infant safety in maternity care settings
Resources on infant safety in the maternity care setting.
Addressing breast milk mix-ups
What to do if an infant or child is mistakenly fed another woman's expressed breast milk.