Breastfeeding after return to work: An Australian national workplace survey

Abstract

Breastfeeding initiation rates in Australia are high but duration rates fall well below the World Health Organization targets. Return to work is a known factor impacting 6 months exclusive breastfeeding and continuation into the infants second year of life. Work related factors can influence a woman's confidence in maintaining breastmilk supply after return to employment and determine whether she meets her personal breastfeeding goals. This cross-sectional online survey is the first Australian study to explore women's experience of maintaining breastfeeding after return to work, in all work sectors. Results revealed variations across work sectors reflected in worker autonomy and confidence in speaking up about breastfeeding rights. Women who had autonomy or flexibility in planning their workday were more likely to be confident in maintaining breastmilk supply. The main predictors for milk supply confidence and meeting personal breastfeeding goals included having: a suitable place to express milk; confidence in speaking out about rights; a formal return-to-work plan; a supportive workplace; and returning to work after the period of exclusive breastfeeding. This study reveals that supportive workplace environments can lead to increased confidence in maintaining milk supply, extending durations of breastfeeding. Women who are confident in their rights to express breastmilk, or breastfeed at work, are more likely to meet their own breastfeeding goals. Education, and awareness raising, on the rights of breastfeeding women in the workplace, is a gender equity imperative that can improve experiences for breastfeeding women, and, increase manager and co-worker knowledge for creating enabling workplace environments for breastfeeding employees.

Keywords: breastfeeding; employment; gender equity; human rights; survey; workplace.