Skagit County Commissioners have designated August as Breastfeeding Month in the county. The Skagit County Breastfeeding Coalition made a presentation to them July 26, highlighting the health benefits of breastfeeding for both baby and parent, while also calling attention to barriers that exist in our community that may impede a parent’s breastfeeding journey.

According to the CDC, 93.7% of infants born in Washington State in 2019 started out breastfeeding. By six months of age, this number dropped to 68%. By the one-year mark, less than half of infants were still breastfeeding, dropping to 47.4%. These drops are more pronounced in low-income populations.

A network of equitable community supports and policies must be in place to ensure prolonged success helping parents navigate the challenges of breastfeeding and child nutrition.

Local resources, including classes, support groups, clinics and lactation consultants are available.

For information about the Skagit County Breastfeeding Coalition:

skagitbreastfeeding.org or (360) 416-1500.

Source: Skagit County Public Health