Breastfeeding
We are happy to announce that an interactive map is available for mothers on campus who are looking for a room for breastfeeding and pumping.
The room contact information is also provided. Click here for the interactive map.
To access the Breastfeeding Support Brochure click here.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding breastfeeding support feel free to contact the Family Resource Center.
FRC has a breastfeeding email listserv for MSU faculty and staff.
If you are interested in being added to this list, please contact FRC.
If you need help finding an appropirate private breastfeeding room contact FRC.
Click here to download a printable sign to use on the door when breastfeeding is in session.
Michigan State University supports breastfeeding mothers. The MSU administration understands the benefits of breastfeeding and expects supervisors to provide a supportive environment and an appropriate private space and time for mothers who choose to nurse their babies or express/pump their breast milk during the work day.
We encourage support of MSU women to facilitate a successful return to work from maternity leave:
- Initiate early discussions with individuals regarding return to work plans
- Identify and provide space for expressing or nursing
- Be flexible with work schedules
- Foster supportive work environments
If the mother has chosen to breastfeed her infant, the university offers options to support her in this decision because:
- Employee productivity is improved and absenteeism is reduced
- Breastfed children are healthier
- Breast milk provides infants all the nutrients necessary for optimal physical and mental development
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians firmly adhere to the position that breastfeeding ensures the best possible health, as well as the best developmental and psycho-social outcomes for the infant.
- Breastfeeding is a benefit to the baby, the mother, and the employer
- Breastfeeding helps develop a strong mother-child relationship
- Mothers who choose to breastfeed are healthier
- Breastfeeding families save money on food and healthcare
- Breastfeeding contributes to a better environment by using less energy and creating less waste
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services advocates breastfeeding: “breastfeeding promotion is currently among the Healthy People 2020 National Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Objectives.”
Barriers to breastfeeding
- Lack of helpful information
- Lack of a flexible workplace
- Lack of a site to feed or pump
- Lack of role models from family or friends
We can help with:
- Breast pump loans or rental information for low-income families
- Peer counseling and individual support
- Discussions of flexible schedules in your unit
- Finding a private place to nurse or express near your work site
- Connecting with other nursing mothers at MSU
- Finding additional resources and support
Breastfeeding Series (Fall & Spring Schedule)
“Breastfeeding: How to Get Started and Keep Going”
Although breastfeeding is natural, it is a learned skill. This four-part program is designed to give pregnant women and their partners information on preparing to breastfeed and strategies for continuing to breastfeed upon returning to work.
Presenter: Mary Machowicz RN, Expectant Parents Organization
Spring Dates: Thursdays, March 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd
Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Location: Nisbet Building, Room 250
Cost: Free!
Week 1: Introduction to Breastfeeding: Benefits, How Breastfeeding Works
Week 2: Baby is Here! – Getting Started – The Mechanics of Breastfeeding – positioning, latching on, feeding patterns, challenges
Week 3: Maintaining Breastfeeding – lifestyle, Expressing and Storing Milk, Returning to work
Week 4: Breastfeeding Transitions: Introducing Solid Foods and Weaning
Breastfeeding Links
The Business Case for Breastfeeding – “Employee Guide to Breastfeeding and Working”
womenshealth.gov – Breastfeeding ~ Best for baby! Best for mom!
Dept. of Labor Fact Sheet #73 – Break Time for Nursing Mothers under the FSLA
International Lactation Consultant Association
A community for parents who breastfeed