Lactation Spaces in Schools: Myth vs. Fact
Many educational institutions have outdated perceptions about lactation accommodations—even when federal law requires lactation spaces for all employees and many states (including Illinois and Virginia) have specific laws requiring them for breastfeeding students. Here are four common myths about lactation spaces debunked so educational leadership teams can make more informed decisions.
Myth 1: Breastfeeding teachers can pump milk in a storage closet or an empty classroom.
Fact: Breastfeeding is a physiological phenomenon with specific requirements for letdown. For an optimal pumping experience, breastfeeding parents need a clean, quiet, and private space that’s available when they need it. While pumping sessions may vary, it’s important to establish a predictable pumping schedule. If the pumping environment is uncomfortable, stressful, or unavailable, it can negatively impact milk supply. A missed or delayed pumping session can cause discomfort, decreased production, or even infection.
Myth 2: There isn’t enough space for a dedicated lactation room.
Fact: Lactation spaces don’t need to be large or elaborate, but they do need to be a comfortable, clean, and private place where breastfeeding teachers can be assured uninterrupted time to pump when they need to.
Myth 3: Schools can’t afford to invest in employee wellness.
Fact: Schools can’t afford not to. With the rising costs of healthcare, investing in employee wellness can actually save money and prevent absenteeism. In fact, research suggests that every $1 dollar spent on a wellness program can result in a $3 cost savings. Investing in employee wellness benefits employees, but it also helps bottom lines and budgets.
Myth 4: Teachers feel supported even without a lactation space.
Fact: No, they don’t. According to our 2023 survey with Medela, more than 1 in 4 breastfeeding parents do not feel even somewhat supported at work and 53% aren’t sure of their workplace lactation rights.
Myths around lactation space requirements, space limitations, and employee wellness can limit schools’ ability to support and retain their faculty and staff. Without the real facts about workplace lactation accommodations, schools run the risk of increased sick days and decreased morale. When schools partner with an experienced lactation space provider they can quickly get the right solution in place that attracts talent, supports breastfeeding employees, and increases retention.
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