One of the biggest “booby traps” to breastfeeding successfully is the lack of support for moms who plan to go back to work after giving birth. Not only do we have one of the worst maternity-leave policies of any industrialized nation, but many employers do not have any policies in place to allow for pumping breaks, provide designated lactation rooms, or flexible work accomodations. Very sad, considering that breastfeeding moms actually improve the company’s bottom line: fewer sick days, less turnover, lower health care cost, higher employee morale are just a few of the cost savings.
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Fortunately, there are a few great resources for working moms. We are getting this section started and more is coming soon!
Top 5 Questions: Going Back to Work This is a blog we did with Kirsten Berggren, a mom dedicated to helping you succeed, and she answered our most FAQ in one neat spot. A must-read.
Resources:
Workandpump.com A wealth of useful info such as your rights, how to enroll your employer, what you need to pack for work, pumping, spacing and feeding tips, info for your daycare, more!
Womenshealth.gov The Business Case for Breastfeeding is a comprehensive program designed to educate employers about the value of supporting breastfeeding employees in the workplace. It emphasizes how supporting breastfeeding contributes to the company’s bottom line and business success. It also offers tools to help employers provide worksite lactation support and privacy for breastfeeding mothers to express milk. The program also offers guidance to employees on breastfeeding and working.
Working & Breastfeeding: It’s Worth It! This free packet of information from the Breastfeeding Coalition of Washington is designed to help mothers who return to work. In addition to health benefits of breastfeeding, these handouts contain suggestions for finding supportive daycare, tips for transitioning back to work, support services, and information for employers about why and how employers can support their breastfeeding employees.
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