Breastfeeding & Working Resources

Why support Breastfeeding in the Workplace?

Having a lactation policy made a huge difference. Before the policy, I had to search for rooms to borrow – some of which did not have locks. After the policy, I felt I had a lot more support and knew of appropriate, secure rooms that I could use. I was even able to exceed my goals!

- Nina C. Iwanaga, Employee, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency

The lactation policy and education has helped our associates and managers recognize the importance of accommodating breastfeeding employees. This program helps us stay in compliance with the law and keeps our new mothers in the workforce.

-Shawn Stout, Pinnacle Hotels, Inc.

Resources for Employees and Employers

The resources below can help both employers and employees support and promote lactation accommodation in the workplace. To develop a comprehensive program it is key to include a written policy, system for communication, environmental changes, along with resources and education for staff. Worksites who offer lactation accommodation can realize health care cost savings, decreased absenteeism and turnover and more productive, satisfied, and loyal employees.

“Talking to Your Boss About Your Pump.”

This new resource, available in English and Spanish, will help breastfeeding, chestfeeding, and pumping workers make a plan for returning to work. It explains legal protections—including new protections workers have under the federal PUMP Act and will soon have under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act—and offers practical tips for how workers can talk to their boss about their lactation needs. Keep an eye out for our updated state-specific guides in the coming months.

• SDCBC Know Your Rights Card
• ACLU & BreastfeedLA Know Your Rights California
• Why Breastfeeding is Important 
• Breastfeeding and Working California Law
• Breastfeeding and Working Federal Law (Spanish)
• State of Breastfeeding Coverage: Health Plan Violations of the Affordable Care Act 

It is important for school boards to encourage administrators and principals to create supportive work environments to help breastfeeding employees continue breastfeeding while working. This improves children’s and employees’ health, saves on health claims, reduces absenteeism, and improves employee morale. And when the children of these employees reach school-age, schools reap an additional benefit – healthier children in our classrooms.

-Richard Barrera, San Diego Unified School District

The County’s Live Well, San Diego! initiative strives to build better health, in the community and for County of San Diego staff. In the Health and Human Services Agency, we’ve already implemented a Lactation Policy and are working to cover all County departments and 15,000+ employees. Breastfeeding provides a baby’s healthiest first food and having a policy in place helps support making the healthy choice the easy choice.

-Wilma Wooten, MD, MPH, Public Health Officer, County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency

The San Diego County Breastfeeding Coalition is a registered nonprofit association driven by the mission to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding through education, advocacy, and outreach in our community. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we rely on our generous donors, members, and volunteers to continue our mission for thousands of families across San Diego County. Your contribution is very much appreciated and will go directly towards supporting breastfeeding families in our community.