Perceived Workplace Breastfeeding Support among Employed Mothers in Jordanian Universities

With the increase in the proportion of working women, the workplace is fundamental in supporting breastfeeding. Jordan is among the lowest countries in exclusive breastfeeding for infants. This study aimed to assess the perceived workplace breastfeeding support among employed mothers in Jordanian universities.

Data collection took place between October 2021 and February 2022. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was used to collect the data from six universities. Convenience sampling was used to include 210 women who had children less than three years old. The Employee Perceptions of Breastfeeding Support Questionnaire was used, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlational analysis.

Workplace breastfeeding support was perceived as moderate in accordance with the Employee Perceptions of Breastfeeding Support Questionnaire. The Mean (SD) of organizational support was 27.70 (5.60), manager support was 28.20 (5.80), co-worker support was 15.0 (3.30), available time was 6.50 (2.30), and physical environment aspect of support was 17.20 (2.80). No significant differences in perceived workplace breastfeeding support concerning work sectors or exclusive breastfeeding were found.

The levels of perceived workplace breastfeeding support were moderate. Improvements are suggested in workplace policies, managers' and co-workers' awareness and openness about supporting employed mothers, flexibility and time availability to facilitate breastfeeding/pumping, and appropriate locations for employed mothers to perform breastfeeding/pumping conveniently. Further research in diverse job settings is required to examine the relationship between workplace breastfeeding support and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding.