Supporting mothers to continue breastfeeding when they return to work
Center for Rapid Evidence Synthesis (ACRES)DRRES-62
This Rapid Response should be cited as
ACRES (2023) SUPPORTING MOTHERS TO CONTINUE BREASTFEEDING: CHALLENGES AND POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS; A Rapid Response Brief. Kampala: The Center For Rapid Evidence Synthesis
Summary
Background: Exclusive breastfeeding for six months is recommended globally, yet return to work is a major barrier for many mothers. Uganda's labour laws provide 60 days of maternity leave, which falls short of the recommended breastfeeding duration. Findings: Workplace lactation support programs, flexible work arrangements, dedicated lactation rooms, employer sensitization campaigns, and peer support networks are effective strategies. Legal and policy frameworks mandating employer support are also critical. Conclusion: A multi-pronged approach addressing both supply-side (employer) and demand-side (mother) factors is needed to support continued breastfeeding after return to work.