The Business Case for Breastfeeding

The Business Case for Breastfeeding is a comprehensive program designed by the US Maternal and Child Health Bureau to educate employers about the value of supporting breastfeeding employees in the workplace. Implementing lactation support in the workplace requires few resources and reaps numerous benefits for employers and employees.

LAWS

Learn about state and national laws protecting breastfeeding in the workplace.

Employer Benefits

Employers that accommodate breastfeeding in the workplace benefit from:
  • Fewer infant medical expense claims because of lower rates of infant illness
  • Reduced staff turnover and loss of skilled workers after childbirth
  • Higher employer and employee satisfaction
  • Recognition as a family-friendly employer
These employers also benefit from having breastfeeding employees with:
  • Fewer missed work days to care for sick infants
  • An earlier return to work after birth
  • Decreased levels of maternal stress
  • Improved productivity and loyalty

Employer Tips

To help employees successfully breastfeed and return to work, employers can provide:
  • Flexible schedules to allow moms time to breastfeed their babies or pump breastmilk during the workday
  • A safe, clean and private space other than a toilet stall where moms can pump breastmilk
  • A sink near the pumping space where moms can clean pumping equipment
Other breastfeeding support strategies:
  • Develop and distribute a written policy outlining organizational support for breastfeeding employees
  • Provide information on the benefits of breastfeeding to all employees
  • Provide pumping equipment for breastfeeding employees to use while at work

Employer Opportunities