Breastfeeding support in the workplace: How to combat the stigma

Training managers and supervisors will aid them in approaching conversations surrounding breastfeeding with a clear understanding of a new mother’s needs. (Photo: Shutterstock)

The lack of support new mothers receive in the workplace remains a long-standing issue impacting the careers and well-being of women. Although it’s improved in recent years, there are still 27.6 million working women of childbearing age without the basic necessities to meet their breastfeeding goals. To add to this, 70% of working mothers struggle to maintain both career and breastfeeding goals due to lack of health coverage and stigmas attached to mothers in the workplace.

The health benefits of breastfeeding alone should be enough of a reason for workplaces to provide proper accommodations to working moms. Breastfeeding support is crucial for the development of children as it provides the greatest nutritional value for infants and lowers a baby’s risk for developing health issues in the future. On top of improving the overall health of the child, breastfeeding substantially benefits the mother as well, promoting a speedy recovery and reducing their risk of obtaining chronic diseases such as breast and ovarian cancers, heart disease and diabetes.