Do workplace policies influence a woman's decision to breastfeed?
Rhonda Winegar1, Alisha Johnson
1Rhonda Winegar is an NP at Austin Neurology & Sleep Associates, Austin, Tex. Alisha Johnson is a clinical assistant professor at St. David's School of Nursing, Texas State University, Round Rock, Tex.
The Nurse Practitioner
|March 18, 2017
Summary
Workplace breastfeeding policies in the US are reviewed. Barriers hinder breastfeeding, but nurse practitioners can educate mothers, potentially increasing rates.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Women's Health
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Breastfeeding offers significant benefits for maternal and infant health.
- Low breastfeeding rates persist, influenced by workplace barriers.
- Nurse practitioners (NPs) are key educators for new mothers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current workplace breastfeeding policies in the United States.
- To identify barriers impacting breastfeeding initiation and duration.
- To explore the role of NPs in supporting breastfeeding mothers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review methodology.
- Analysis of existing workplace breastfeeding policies.
- Synthesis of research on breastfeeding barriers and NP interventions.
Main Results:
- Inconsistent and often inadequate workplace breastfeeding policies exist nationwide.
- Common barriers include lack of time, inadequate facilities, and employer support.
- NPs play a crucial role in providing education and support, influencing maternal decisions.
Conclusions:
- Improved workplace policies are essential to support breastfeeding.
- Enhanced NP education and integration into policy discussions can improve breastfeeding rates.
- Addressing workplace barriers is critical for public health outcomes.
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