Helping working mums to continue breastfeeding

Gisborne Hospital midwife manager Iidil Merlini (left) and community lactation consultant Janet McGuinness, with a koro gifted by the New Zealand Breastfeeding Alliance. Picture supplied

Workplace challenges remain the most common reason for women to never breastfeed or to stop breastfeeding earlier than recommended.

That is the key issue behind the theme for World Breastfeeding Week 2023 — Enabling breastfeeding: making a difference for working parents.

Tairāwhiti community lactation consultant Janet McGuinness said there were things to think about before returning to the workplace.

“We encourage mums returning to work to have a clear breastfeeding plan in place,” she said.

“Do you want someone to bring baby to you or do you want to be pumping during that time?

“If you are pumping, think about how and where you will store your breast milk safely”.

Gisborne Hospital midwife manager and lactation consultant Iidil Merlini recommends women talk to other women who have breastfed or pumped in the workplace.

“Talk to colleagues who have done it before you to find out what they might have done.

“They can share useful ideas for the practical aspect of breastfeeding at your workplace”.

Janet and Iidil’s top three tips for breastfeeding in the workplace are:

1. Have a plan in place and be prepared, having a good pump helps.

2. Know your rights. A workplace must supply a clean safe space to breastfeed or pump that isn’t a bathroom.  Feeding mums should also get extra breaks to pump/feed.

3. Get friendly with the HR department as they know about this stuff and can support the employee with the details.

Breastfeeding mothers needing extra support navigating breastfeeding at work can access the community lactation consultant advice through the Breastfeeding East Coast — Wai Ū Tairāwhiti Facebook page.

For more information visit www.babyfriendly.org.nz/about-nzba