Organization: Support breastfeeding in the workplace.
Mothers are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. labor force, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nearly three-quarters of employed mothers with children younger than 3 years old work full time. What’s more, a third of these moms go back to work within 3 months after birth; two-thirds return within 6 months.
The first months of life are a crucial time for starting healthy habits. Breastfeeding provides a variety of benefits for newborns and infants, including increased protection from illness. Mothers who breastfeed are less likely to develop certain types of cancer, diabetes and osteoporosis.
Incorporating breastfeeding into a work routine, however, can be difficult when it comes to finding privacy or adequate break time. But the organizations that do provide a lactation program and the employees who take part both benefit, through lower absenteeism, increased employee retention and a positive business image. There are several ways to support breastfeeding moms:
- Provide a nursing mother’s room.
- Offer flexibility with work schedules, breaks and/or a compressed work week.
- Create support through education, newsletters, access to lactation specialists, and support groups.
Make your commitment to implement this policy change in your organization. Download the pledge form today!
Resources
- A planning guide for becoming a breastfeeding-friendly worksite
- Creating a breastfeeding support program for nursing mothers at work
- Toolkit for workplace breastfeeding programs and policies
- Breastfeeding Support Policy Flyer
- The Business Case for Breastfeeding: Entire Toolkit
- The Business Case for Breastfeeding: Steps for Creating a Breastfeeding Friendly Worksite—Bottom Line Benefits
- The Business Case for Breastfeeding: Easy Steps to Supporting Breastfeeding Employees
- The Business Case for Breastfeeding: Employees' Guide to Breastfeeding at Work