Breastfeeding Programs in the Workplace
Breastfed babies are the healthiest babies and healthy babies are good for business. Why? For one, if you are self-insured, healthier babies mean fewer medical expenses. Breastfeeding in the workplace also increases productivity, staff retention and decreases employee absence rates!
Both the mothers and their employers benefit from lactation programs in the workplace.
Why are Breastfeeding Programs Good for Business?
• Reduced staff turnover and loss of skilled workers after the birth of a child.
• Reduced absences for working breastfeeding mothers because their babies are more less likely to get sick.
• Lower overall health care costs.
• Higher employee satisfaction, morale and productivity.
• Major recruitment incentive for new employees.
• Companies that have adopted breastfeeding support programs have noted cost savings of $3 per $1 invested in breastfeeding support!
• Reputation as a company concerned for the welfare of working mothers and children.
What Does Your Breastfeeding Policy Need to Include?
The three main things a breastfeeding policy in the workplace needs to provide breastfeeding mothers are:
Space: Don’t make them spend their break in the bathroom. Have available comfortable, clean and private space for pumping and storing breast milk.
Time: Allow employees long enough break times to pump or provide flexible working hours for moms.
Support: Develop “breastfeeding-friendly” workplace policies including education of managers and workers about the benefits of breastfeeding.
For a PDF sample breastfeeding policy, click here to get a free copy from “HealthAtWork.com.
Additional Resources:
* Learn the breastfeeding advantages for moms and their health.
* Learn the advantages of breastfeeding for babies.
* To see the AAP Breastfeeding Page for more information, click here.
* The WHO Breastfeeding Page also gives the World Health organization’s policies and information on the benefits of breastfeeding.
