Lactation support in the workplace: Impact on employee morale

Background/Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess knowledge and attitudes regarding breastfeeding/expression of breast milk among employees of the SAS Institute, a company specializing in business intelligence software and services located in North Carolina. SAS has been offering including comprehensive lactation services through an onsite health care center for approximately ten years. While most previous studies surveyed beliefs and concerns about breastfeeding among employers, this study assessed attitudes and beliefs of the employees themselves. Methods: An online survey was distributed to all employees. Descriptive analysis and cross-tabulations were carried out for differing populations of respondents. Multiple regression was used to control for age, sex and length of employment. Results: Preliminary analyses suggest a correlation between acceptance of breastfeeding/ expression of breast milk in the workplace and having previously worked with a woman who breastfed, and between acceptance of breastfeeding/expression in the workplace and having a spouse, self or friend who breastfed. Responses indicate that breastfeeding/ expressing milk in the workplace 1) does not decrease worker morale (84%); 2) does not interfere in productivity by co-workers (94%), and 3) decreases in absenteeism by employees (73%). Employees differ with regards to where within the workplace breastfeeding/expression is acceptable. Respondents (97%) expressed support for co-workers who wish to breastfeed or express milk in the workplace. Conclusions: This study supports the concept that offering comprehensive support to employees and spouses who breastfeed will not compromise the working environment nor interfere with productivity or morale.