Because of a lapse in government funding, the information on this website may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the website may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted.

The NIH Clinical Center (the research hospital of NIH) is open. For more details about its operating status, please visit cc.nih.gov.

Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at OPM.gov.

NICHD Breastfeeding and Breast Milk Research Information

NICHD's research on breastfeeding goes beyond the mechanics of the process to include a variety of topics ranging from the neurodevelopmental, nutritional, and emotional benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and babies to the cultural and societal impacts of breastfeeding on families and communities. The Institute's research portfolio also includes studies of the biological and immunological properties and components of breast milk and how they influence disease and short- and long-term health. Institute researchers also take part in trans-NIH and trans-government efforts to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding for overall health and to educate families and health care providers about breastfeeding benefits.

Learn more about the need for human milk research. (PDF 298 KB)

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Need data? Visit NICHD's Data and Specimen Hub (DASH). Browse studies and request data for your research.
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