Breastfeeding Workplace Policy Guide

Breastfeeding

The prevalence of breastfeeding among new mothers has steadily increased over the years. Most working mothers return to work when their infants are still being breastfed. Making it easier for mothers to continue breastfeeding after their return to work is beneficial to the woman, her child and to you as an employer. In addition to the potential benefits, workplaces must support breastfeeding to stay in compliance with the law. Refer to this policy guide to help create a breastfeeding friendly environment.

Did you know?

• The World Health Organization and the Canadian Pediatric Society recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months (with complementary solid foods introduced at six months), and continued breastfeeding for up to two years and beyond
• Results of the Breastfeeding Practices in the Region of Peel 2004/2005 report found:
  • 94% of mothers initiate breastfeeding in Peel
  • 55% of mothers plan to continue breastfeeding upon returning to work
  • Average age of the baby when mother returns to work is 9.3 months
• An insurance company estimated that it saved $1435 in medical claims per breastfed infant and three days of employee sick leave per breastfed infant in the first year of its workplace breastfeeding support program (Ball & Bennett, 2001¹)
• It is discriminatory for women to be disadvantaged in services, accommodation or employment because they have chosen to breastfeed their children (Ontario Human Rights Commission, Policy on Discrimination Because of Pregnancy & Breastfeeding - PDF 180KB, 32 pages)

¹ Ball T, Bennett D. (2001). The Economic Impact of Breastfeeding. Pediatric Clinics of North America. 48(1)

Benefits for the employer

• Ensures compliance with Ontario Human Rights Commission (PDF 108KB, 32 pages)
• Decreases absenteeism (PDF 162KB, 2 pages) among working parents as breastfed children are sick less often
• Decreases prescription costs for the employee’s child
• Increases retention rates (PDF 33KB, 4 pages) after maternity leave
• Improves employee morale and productivity (PDF 33KB, 4 pages)
• Improves corporate image

[ Sample Policies and Procedures ]