Let’s make breastfeeding and work, work!
‘World Breastfeeding Week’, a joint global campaign initiative by WHO and UNICEF is marked from August 1 to 7 (since 1992), to raise awareness and advocate among people regarding the benefits of breastfeeding. Breastmilk is the baby’s first vaccine which provides critical protection from disease and death. Statistics by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that less than half of all newborns are breastfed within the first hour of birth, which leaves them vulnerable to disease and death.
Breastfeeding is the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival and yet at present, less than half of infants under 6 months old are exclusively breastfed. Yet, breastmilk is the ideal food for infants as it is safe, clean and contains antibodies which help protect against many common childhood illnesses. Breastmilk provides all the nutrients needed by the infant for the first months of life, and it continues to provide a little more than half of a child’s nutritional needs during the second half of the first year, and up to a third during the second year of life. Statistics have shown that breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests, are less likely to be overweight or obese and are less prone to diabetes later in life. Women who breastfeed also have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
This year’s theme is “Let’s make breastfeeding and work, work!”, aimed at addressing the unique challenges that nursing women encounter as they resume work after the duration of maternity leave. As more and more women are in the workplace, the World Health Organization aims to promote the enabling environments that help women to breastfeed or express milk at the workplace. This includes community and workplace support, with adequate protections in government policies and laws – as well as sharing information on benefits of breastfeeding.
Balancing breastfeeding and work can be a challenge, but with the right support and planning, it is entirely possible to make it work successfully. Here are some tips to help you achieve that balance:
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the laws and policies related to breastfeeding and working in your country or region. Many places have laws that protect a mother’s right to breastfeed and require employers to provide reasonable accommodations.
- Talk to Your Employer: Before returning to work, have an open and honest conversation with your employer about your intention to continue breastfeeding. Discuss potential solutions for breaks and a private space where you can pump or breastfeed comfortably.
- Establish a Supportive Network: Connect with other breastfeeding moms at your workplace or in your community. Sharing experiences and tips can be incredibly helpful and encouraging.
- Take Care of Yourself: Balancing work and breastfeeding can be physically and emotionally demanding. Ensure you’re eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest to maintain your well-being.
- Be Flexible: Understand that some days might be more challenging than others. Flexibility is key when balancing the demands of work and breastfeeding.
Remember, every mother’s journey is unique, and it’s okay to adjust your plan as needed. There may be days when things don’t go as planned, and that’s okay. Be kind to yourself and stay flexible as you find the right balance. With determination and support, you can successfully make breastfeeding and work coexist harmoniously.
#WorldBreastfeedingWeek
Catherine Muteithia
ACLAD Research and Communications Assistant