Policy Statement: Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk

🤖 Plain-English Summary

Breastfeeding and human milk are the normative standards for infant feeding and nutrition. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The Joint Commission monitor breastfeeding practices in US hospitals.

🔑 Key Findings

• The short- and long-term medical and neurodevelopmental advantages of breastfeeding make breastfeeding, or the provision of human milk, a public health imperative.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for approximately 6 months after birth.
• Additionally, the AAP supports continued breastfeeding, along with appropriate complementary foods introduced at about 6 months, as long as mutually desired by mother and child for 2 years or beyond.

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