Development of a Workplace Lactation Lounge in Chicago

The American Academy of Pediatrics, World Health Organization, and Institute of Medicine recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months, but in 2005, only 39% of 6 month olds were breastfed at all; 20% were exclusively breastfed. While working mothers initiate breastfeeding at approximately the same rate as all mothers (70%), their duration is significantly lower than that of non-working mothers. Many find it difficult to breastfeed after returning to work due to time constraints, limited employer support, and lack of a clean, private space. Studies show workplace lactation policies have dramatically increased the breastfeeding rate at six months. Thirty-six U.S. states have laws allowing breastfeeding in any public or private place; eleven specifically have laws for the workplace. Four states, including Illinois, require reasonable break time for employees to express milk in a private space. Considering these well-known health benefits and legislative precedents, the Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health - Region V is developing a lactation lounge to benefit employees in a large Chicago office building. As one of the largest employers in the country, the federal government can set an important precedent. Key to the success of this project will be educating building management and employers of the value of a lactation lounge. Advantages include decreased employee turnover and sick leave, increased employee productivity, lower health care costs, improved employee morale, loyalty, and the recruitment advantages as a “mother-friendly” employer. We will launch the lactation lounge during World Breastfeeding Week in August 2007.