Introduction to Breastfeeding at Work NZ
In my Auckland clinic, I often meet mums who are concerned about breastfeeding at work. As an IBCLC, I reassure them that with the right support and equipment, breastfeeding at work can be a success. According to Plunket, many mums in NZ are able to breastfeed at work with the help of their employers. In fact, Plunket reports that over 70% of New Zealand mothers are still breastfeeding at 6 weeks, and with the right support, many are able to continue breastfeeding when they return to work.
Understanding Your Rights as a Breastfeeding Mother at Work
Under the Employment Relations Act 2000 (Part 6BA), New Zealand employers must provide reasonable breaks and appropriate facilities for an employee who wishes to breastfeed or express milk at work, so far as is reasonable and practicable. This means that you have the right to express milk at work and store it safely. For example, your employer should provide a private room with a lock, a fridge to store your expressed milk, and regular breaks to express milk.
Preparing for Breastfeeding at Work
Before returning to work, it's essential to prepare for breastfeeding at work. This includes investing in a good quality breast pump, such as the Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump PRO2 (Double) for $209.90. This hospital-grade pump is under 35 dB and perfect for discreet pumping at work. I recall a mum who came to my clinic, worried about expressing milk at work. She worked in a busy office in the Auckland CBD and was concerned about finding a private space to express milk. I advised her to talk to her HR department about setting up a breastfeeding room, and she was able to find a quiet space to express milk during her breaks.
I remember one mum, Sarah, who worked as a teacher at a school in West Auckland. She was worried about expressing milk during her breaks, but with the help of her school's administration, she was able to set up a private room to express milk. She would often express milk during her lunch break, and then store it in the school's fridge until the end of the day. With the right support and equipment, Sarah was able to continue breastfeeding her baby until she was 12 months old.
Breastfeeding at Work Policy
It's essential to check your company's breastfeeding at work policy before returning to work. If your company doesn't have a policy, you can work with your HR department to create one. A good policy should include provisions for breaks, storage of expressed milk, and a clean and private area for expressing milk. You can contact Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora for guidance on developing a breastfeeding at work policy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Breastfeeding at Work
- Check your company's breastfeeding at work policy and discuss any concerns with your HR department.
- Invest in a good quality breast pump, such as the Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump PRO2 (Double).
- Find a clean and private area to express milk at work, such as a lactation room or a private office.
- Store your expressed milk safely in a fridge or cooler bag, and label it with your name and date.
- Take regular breaks to express milk and stretch, aiming for every 3-4 hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Breastfeeding at Work
One common mistake mums make when breastfeeding at work is not taking enough breaks to express milk. This can lead to engorgement and discomfort. Another mistake is not storing expressed milk safely, which can lead to spoilage and waste. Make sure to follow proper storage and handling guidelines, such as storing milk in a fridge at 4°C or below, and using it within 3-5 days.
Breastfeeding Requirements for Employers
Employers in NZ have a responsibility to provide reasonable breaks and appropriate facilities for breastfeeding mums. This includes providing a clean and private area for expressing milk, as well as storage for expressed milk. According to Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora, employers should also provide support and resources for breastfeeding mums, such as access to a lactation consultant. Employers can contact Plunket on 0800 933 922 for guidance on supporting breastfeeding employees.
Can I Breastfeed at Work?
Yes, you can breastfeed at work in NZ. In fact, many mums in NZ are able to breastfeed at work with the help of their employers. If you're concerned about breastfeeding at work, talk to your HR department or a lactation consultant for support. You can also contact the Plunket helpline on 0800 933 922 for advice and guidance.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Breastfeeding at work in NZ can be a success with the right support and equipment. Remember to check your company's breastfeeding at work policy, invest in a good quality breast pump, and take regular breaks to express milk. For more information on breastfeeding at work, check out our guide to breastfeeding rights in NZ. If you're looking for a good quality breast pump, consider the Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump PRO2 (Double) for $209.90, with free NZ-wide shipping and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What are my rights as a breastfeeding mother at work?
A: You have the right to express milk at work and store it safely, as well as take regular breaks to express milk and stretch. -
Q: Can I breastfeed at work?
A: Yes, you can breastfeed at work in NZ, with the help of your employer. -
Q: How much time is allowed for breastfeeding at work?
A: The amount of time allowed for breastfeeding at work will depend on your company's policy and your individual needs. Generally, you should aim to express milk every 3-4 hours. -
Q: Can I leave work to breastfeed?
A: Yes, you can leave work to breastfeed, but you should discuss this with your HR department first. You may be able to take a break to breastfeed your baby, or express milk at work and store it for later use. -
Q: What are the rules for breastfeeding at work?
A: The rules for breastfeeding at work will depend on your company's policy, but generally, you have the right to express milk at work and store it safely. -
Q: Are employers required to provide breastfeeding facilities?
A: Yes, employers in NZ are required to provide reasonable breaks and appropriate facilities for breastfeeding mums, including a clean and private area for expressing milk and storage for expressed milk.
Written by Charlotte Reid, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (Auckland, New Zealand)
Charlotte is an IBCLC and mum of two based in Auckland. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ New Zealand families with breastfeeding, expressing and the return-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo New Zealand guides in-house with the product team. She is a member of La Leche League New Zealand.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Aroha Mitchell, MBChB (Auckland)
