Talking to Your Employers Returning to Work Storing Your Breast Milk Where to Pump Introducing a Bottle
Mother-Friendly Worksite
With the State of Texas designation as a Mother-Friendly Worksite, the university affirms its sensitivity to needs of nursing mothers. This public recognition will be (is) another signal as we competitively and inclusively recruit and seek to retain high-quality faculty, staff, and students.
E. Jill Pollock
Associate Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Texas A & M
These companies have earned a Mother-Friendly Worksite certification from the state. If you are pregnant or might become pregnant, working at a Mother-Friendly Worksite will make your transition back to work much easier.
To earn their certificate, businesses must show that they:
This does not need to be extra paid break time. If needed, employees can shorten their lunch hour, come in a little early or leave late to make up the time.
The room should have an electrical outlet, a small table and a chair. It should not be a bathroom (for hygienic/safety reasons). Many employers provide a hospital-grade multiuser electric breast pump, but this is not required. Read More
The sink does not have to be in the pump room, but should be nearby, hygienic and easily accessible.
A refrigerator is preferable, but an employee’s personal cooler with ice packs is also an option.
Breastfed infants are healthier. They are 60% less likely to develop ear infections and lower-respiratory infections. They are less likely to suffer from diarrhea, meningitis, allergies and diabetes. And moms who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer and postpartum obesity.
Breastfeeding mothers are half as likely to miss a day of work for a sick child compared to mothers of formula-fed infants. (Cohen, Mrtek & Mrtek, 1995) Read More
Supporting breastfeeding employees allows women to return to work and still provide the best nutrition for their babies. This reduces turnover and retraining costs.
Women workers are more loyal to companies that help them be good mothers. This helps them be more satisfied with their jobs.
The Mother-Friendly Worksite window decal shows the community that the business is concerned for the health of its employees and their children.
The Mother-Friendly Worksite window decal shows breastfeeding moms that they are valued customers. Breastfeeding moms are more likely to become repeat customers if they know a business supports breastfeeding.
Companies need to develop a written policy that includes the four steps.
Contact Julie Stagg at (512) 458-7111 X6917 for assistance or apply here.
Contact Julie Stagg at (512) 458-7111 X6917 for assistance or apply here.
