Local officials highlighting benefits of breastfeeding for your family and wallet

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Nebraska officials say breastfeeding could have significant impacts on the health of you and your baby, but also your budget. 

The CDC estimates the country’s relatively low breastfeeding rate results in about $3 billion a year in extra medical costs.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends at least six months of exclusive breastfeeding. 

The Nebraska Breastfeeding Coalition is seeking to “normalize” the practice for every Nebraska family.

“Humans make their own antibodies in response to the baby feeding,” said Stephanie Bradley with the Nebraska Breastfeeding Coalition told the Nebraska News Connection. “It decreases instances of asthma; it decreases obesity rates; it improves immune systems.” 

Bradley thinks prenatal care should include breastfeeding education. 

In 2022, President Joe Biden signed into law the Pump Act, which gives more women coverage for Fair Labor Standards Act regulations.  

These require employers to provide breastfeeding moms with break times and a private place to pump during work hours for up to a year after their child is born.