Breastfeeding in public and returning to work

Breastfeeding benefits

Breastfeeding has many health benefits for you and your baby. These include:

• staying emotionally close to your baby
• feeling more connected when back together after time apart
• your body releases hormones that help relax you
• protecting your baby from sickness
• it is free and safe.

Mums are more likely to breastfeed longer when they:

• feel comfortable breastfeeding in public
• have a plan to pump at work
• have support from family, work and community.

Breastfeeding and returning to work

Many mothers return to work while they breastfeed. It takes some organisation, time and flexibility.

Tips for returning to work:

• talk to your workplace about how they can support your breastfeeding, such as by giving you lactation breaks or making it easier to express milk at work
• learn to express breastmilk and practice offering it to your baby via a cup or bottle
• plan to breastfeed your baby before you leave for work and then when you return home.

The Federal Sex Discrimination Act says:

• it is illegal for employers to discriminate against a woman because she is breastfeeding
• employers must support you with your needs if you want to breastfeed or express milk at work. 

Talk to your child and family health nurse or family doctor if you need help continuing breastfeeding.

You can find more information on breastfeeding in public and returning to work.