Breastfeeding as a Working Mom

From providing nutrition to sharing antibodies, breastfeeding provides health benefits for babies, mothers and families. But according to the World Health Organization, fewer than half of infants under six months old are exclusively breastfed.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends babies consume only breast milk for the first six months. Beyond six months, breast milk and other nutritious foods are recommended.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Megan Schlachter-Walter, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, IBCLC, a nurse practitioner at ProMedica Physicians Breastfeeding Medicine, says that the benefits of breastfeeding are endless. “Some of the big benefits for infants include increased immune function, reduced risk of asthma and allergies, sleep-wake cycle regulation and the development of a healthy gut.”

Returning to Work While Breastfeeding

Schlachter-Walter says that returning to work is one of the biggest barriers of breastfeeding reported. “Mothers worry about where to pump, where to store breast milk, how to find time to pump and how to maintain their milk supply when away from baby,” says Schlachter-Walter. “This can lead to decreased rates of breastfeeding after a mother’s maternity leave is up and they return to working in an office space.”

While the change may be difficult, Schlachter-Walter says that mothers are not alone in their journey. She encourages parents to educate themselves on workplace and federal policies that work to protect breastfeeding families.

Protections for Mothers

In the United States, under the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act), most nursing employees have the right to a break time and place to express breast milk at work until the child is one year old. This includes providing a place that is shielded from view and free from intrusion.

“The continued production of breast milk after returning to work can be challenging but ultimately it allows families to continue receiving the physical, financial and mental health benefits that come along with breastfeeding,” says Schlachter-Walter. “Many mothers even report that pumping at work helps them feel more connected to their baby while they are away.”