With the new changes in the Affordable Care Act that allow for better protection of breastfeeding, especially for mother's in the workplace, many business owners may be developing lactation rooms.
A lactation room is a private, comfortable space available for mother's to use while expressing breastmilk for their infant when they are separated, or for them to use to breastfeed their baby should they choose to do so in private. It is very important for these rooms to be comfortable for mom and baby. They should never be in a bathroom, after all, we don't like to eat in the bathroom and babies do not either.
The room should have a few basic components, first and foremost the room should be comfortable and clean. The room should also (at minimum) have:
-An electrical outlet for use with a breast pump
-A door that locks from the inside to ensure privacy
-A comfortable chair for mother to sit, a rocker is the best option
-A small table to put the breast pump on
-Disinfectant wipes and/or access to a sink with running water for cleaning breast pump supplies and wiping surfaces
-Some employers choose to provide a multi-user pump, otherwise, ensuring the employee has their own breast pump (most insurance plans now cover this!)
-A refrigerator nearby for milk storage (and, its not considered a biohazard, its just food!)
The coalition is happy to help businesses become breastfeeding friendly. For more information, e-mail wcbc@outlook.com or call 715-421-8911 and ask for Amber France or Leah Meidl. You can view great information here:
https://www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding/government-in-action/business-case-for-breastfeeding/easy-steps-to-supporting-breastfeeding-employees.pdf
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