Honor employers who already have practices in place to support breastfeeding practices in the workplace. Six Oregon hospitals have already taken steps and will be recognized. Ribbon-cutting to open a lactation room in the Portland State Office Building. I am delighted that our agency has implemented a policy that supports women who choose to breastfeed their babies and that we have been able to designate a Mothers Room to accommodate them, says Elinor Hall, administrator of the Health Division. We believe this is a benefit to our employees and to our workplace.
Research shows that breastfeeding keeps babies healthy and benefits mother and child.
Companies with successful worksite lactation programs have less health care costs, less employee turnover and absenteeism and higher employee morale, Hall states. The Breastfeeding Mother Friendly Employer Project recognizes businesses who are already supporting mothers and strongly encourages others to participate. The process can be initiated by an employer or employees and involves developing a plan and submitting policies to the Health Division. The fact that women with infants and children below age three are the fastest growing segment of today s workforce means it is imperative for businesses to become breastfeeding friendly, Hall says. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends that employers provide accommodation and support to breastfeeding mothers.