Despite the substantial and enduring benefits of breastfeeding, actual rates of breastfeeding are disappointingly low. Although there are laws protecting breastfeeding in public and at work, one of the main barriers to breastfeeding is maternal employment. This website can serve as a guide to working and breastfeeding.

Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding enhances cognitive function and provides ideal nutrition and immunological protection. Breastfed infants have less infections and illnesses. In the U.S., breastfed infants have a 20% lower infant mortality rate than formula fed infants. People who were breastfed have higher I.Q. and lower rates of numerous diseases. Mothers who breastfeed lose weight quicker, have less negative affect, lower rates of PPD and lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Breastfeeding also facilitates the mother-infant relationship by providing an ideal context for bonding.