BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)–In honor of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, major medical authorities emphasize the importance of human milk for infants during their first year and beyond. Despite this knowledge, returning to work often leads to discontinuation of breastfeeding. Many employees recognize the benefits but find it challenging to continue after returning to work. Some are hesitant to inquire about expressing or pumping milk at their workplace.
“Accommodations for women returning to work after having a baby are rarely discussed until the day she returns,” explains Deanna Grube, a lactation consultant at Crawford County WIC. “Planning ahead and feeling supported by their workplace can significantly impact a woman’s success in breastfeeding her baby.” The organization offers free guidance to local businesses on supporting nursing mothers returning to work. Employers must also comply with legal requirements, providing a designated space (other than a bathroom) for employees to express milk.
The Crawford County Board of Health, in collaboration with their WIC division staff, recognizes local employers that have made efforts to support breastfeeding within the past 12 months. To qualify for the Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace Champion award, employers must:
- Adopt a new, updated lactation support policy (template policies are available).
- Provide or upgrade an existing lactation area.
This year, ten local employers received the 2024 Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace Champion award. The initiative has been ongoing for three years, with thirty businesses previously recognized. All local businesses are encouraged to seek guidance on supporting their breastfeeding employees. To schedule an appointment for recognition, contact Deanna Grube at the Crawford County WIC office by calling (419)562-5859.