Koochiching County has established a lactation support services program for the county’s female employees and partners of male employees who choose to breastfeed their new babies.
Lactation support programs are a growing trend in businesses today as a means of improving family services to employees. More than 70 percent of new mothers now breastfeed their infants because of the proven health benefits to both infants and mothers.
Research shows that breastfed infants are significantly less likely to suffer from illnesses, infections, and obesity, and mothers who breastfeed also enjoy significant health benefits, including faster recovery from pregnancy and reduced risk of breast cancer and osteoporosis. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants receive nothing but breastmilk for the first six months of life, and continued breastmilk for at least a year or more.
The county’s lactation support program was developed through careful planning and review of suggestions by employees. The program includes a designated safe, private area for expressing milk during work hours, educational materials and the access to a public health nurse for consultation. Koochiching County Public Health and Human Services staff is excited to have the first county designated breastfeeding room located on the second floor of the Community Service building.
Corporate lactations programs have been proven to help mothers continue to provide their milk for their infants. Supporting breastfeeding employees is a win-win for everyone. Koochiching County is proud to join with those across America who provide lactation support for their employees.
