Did you know that Minnesota and Cook County have some of the highest rates of working mothers in the country? Not only do many mothers work in the Northland, we also have the highest breastfeeding rates in the state. This means that in Cook County and Grand Portage, there are many mothers who are returning to work as breastfeeding moms. Breastfeeding is known to be valuable to the health of mother and child. We also know that supporting breastfeeding is valuable to our local businesses and our community. . Breastfeeding is an important way to support health, reduce chronic disease, and reduce healthcare spending. . Breastfed babies are healthier. They have fewer infections and illnesses, even if they are in daycare. . Mothers who breastfeed are healthier. Their risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis are lower and they recover from pregnancy and childbirth faster. . Healthier babies mean mothers and fathers have to use less sick leave to care for sick infants. . Because mothers and babies are healthier, nursing mothers are more productive at work.
Not only does accommodating and supporting breastfeeding moms make good sense for businesses and families, it is also the law. Minnesota statute 181.939 states that a company employing one or more people must make accommodations for breastfeeding employees.
Navigating the transition back to work for a breastfeeding mom and for her employer can present unique questions. The WIC program in Cook County is here to help.
To learn more about the ways Sawtooth Mountain Clinic and the WIC program can support breastfeeding moms and local businesses, contact Kristin Wharton or Erin Watson at (218) 387-2330.
Leave a Reply