08/05/2025
This World Breastfeeding Week, I’m reflecting on the incredible 11 months I’ve spent on this journey with my baby. I feel so fortunate to have had this experience, and I know that comes from a place of immense privilege.
Like so many others, I struggled at the beginning with a delayed milk supply. But I had help: health insurance that covered lactation specialists and three months of paid maternity leave, which allowed me to attend twice weekly appointments. It’s heartbreaking to think that some mothers in the U.S. don’t get any paid leave at all, let alone the support to establish breastfeeding.
Furthermore, the US is so far behind. I was back at work after three months, while my sister-in-law in New Zealand had a full year of paid leave. We need more time with our babies-6 weeks is unfathomable.
I also recognize the privilege in working for myself which allows me to set my own pumping schedule. I’ve seen friends struggle with pumping at work—pumping behind curtains, being pressured to adjust their workday to accommodate extra time for pumping, pumping in a glorified closet,or worried that someone might hear the pump over a zoom call.
Only 25% of mothers in the U.S. exclusively breastfeed after six months, and I don’t believe it’s for lack of trying. It’s because we lack the systemic support needed for mothers returning to the workforce. So as we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, let’s also recognize the critical need for paid parental leave, better healthcare access, and stronger workplace support for all mothers.
