As August celebrates National Breastfeeding Month and Black Breastfeeding Week approaches from August 25-31, it’s an ideal moment to shine a light on a significant issue in the workplace: inadequate lactation facilities. Despite modern amenities like credit card-enabled soda machines in break rooms, many employers still consider a supply closet or, heaven forbid, a bathroom stall to be appropriate spots for pumping.
The nonprofit organization Moms Rising is rallying support for better pumping accommodations by encouraging moms to share their experiences using the hashtag #IPumpedHere. Women across the country are posting photos that illustrate the range of places they’ve had to pump. Some showcase well-designed lactation rooms, while others reveal shocking realities that make you wonder, “Are you kidding me?”
In an effort to amplify their message, Moms Rising members recently visited Washington, D.C., armed with children, snacks, and bags of chocolates labeled as “liquid gold” to symbolize the value of breastmilk. They connected with lawmakers to discuss the fact that about 60% of working mothers face inadequate break time or subpar pumping facilities.
Federal regulations regarding pumping apply only to businesses with 50 or more employees. These laws mandate that lactation rooms be private, with measures preventing interruptions. Importantly, pumping areas cannot be bathrooms. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for up to two years or more, yet companies are only required to provide reasonable breaks for mothers until their babies are one year old.
To help moms assess whether their workplace lactation policies meet legal standards, they can refer to both federal and state breastfeeding laws. If state regulations offer greater protections, those will take precedence. Moms Rising is also providing free #IPumpedHere stickers for pumping moms to use in photos or to place in less-than-ideal pumping locations as a show of solidarity for others in similar situations.
Mothers often endure uncomfortable and unsanitary conditions out of love for their children. However, being willing to pump under such circumstances doesn’t mean it should be the norm. For additional insights on fertility and family planning, check out our post on boosting fertility supplements. If you’re considering assisted reproductive technology, this resource provides valuable information. For those navigating the IVF process, Parents.com offers an excellent overview.
In summary, the #IPumpedHere movement is shining a light on the pressing need for better pumping accommodations for working mothers. It calls for awareness and improvement in policies that impact the daily lives of mothers striving to balance work and breastfeeding.