August marks National Breastfeeding Month, a time to highlight the importance of breastfeeding and the collective efforts needed to support families in this practice. Officially declared National Breastfeeding Month in 2011 by the United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC), this global initiative raises awareness of breastfeeding’s many benefits, addresses common barriers, and calls for improved access to support.
The 2025 theme, “Forward Together,” focuses on unity, solidarity, and hope and is a celebration of the many organizations and individuals working diligently to create meaningful change through policy, systems, and environmental efforts.
As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I’ve had the privilege of helping families navigate the joys and challenges of feeding their infants. Research shows that breastfeeding is good for babies and empowering for parents. Despite the well-documented health benefits of breastfeeding, however, many families encounter significant obstacles that can often make it difficult to sustain breastfeeding as recommended. Access to knowledgeable professionals and supportive programs is not just helpful, it’s essential.
At Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Childbirth Center, we are committed to empowering families with the knowledge and support they need throughout their feeding journey. Our experienced nurses are skilled in assisting with newborns’ first feeds, and our dedicated lactation consultants are available seven days a week in-person and by phone to provide ongoing guidance.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital is also designated as a Baby Friendly Hospital reflecting our deep commitment to supporting breastfeeding parents. Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Childbirth Center first earned designation as a Baby-Friendly Hospital in 2018 and was re-designated in 2022.
The Baby-Friendly USA initiative is a global program launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to recognize and encourage hospitals and birthing centers to “implement best practices to support optimal care for infant feeding and parent/baby bonding.”
We encourage families to seek support throughout their hospital stay and after discharge. Support groups, phone calls, in-person and virtual consultations, lactation support—whether through Cooley Dickinson or community resources—are vital to a successful breastfeeding experience.
We also recognize the importance of a strong support network. Partners, family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues each play a valuable role in supporting the birth parent and contributing to a positive feeding journey. Members of the community can call the lactation consultants at Cooley Dickinson Hospital at 413-582-2096 with questions, or for support.
This month, let’s honor the work being done and continue moving Forward Together, ensuring every family has the resources they need to feed their babies with confidence and care.
Lisa Fitzgerald, OTR/L, IBCLC, is a lactation specialist at Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Childbirth Center in Northampton.