The Business Case for Lactation Benefits
For companies striving to be employers of choice, offering lactation support is more than a compliance mandate—it’s a smart investment. From improved retention and reduced absenteeism to lower healthcare costs and enhanced employee morale, the return on investment for supporting lactating employees is both well-documented and significant.
Retention: A Competitive Advantage
Returning to work after childbirth is one of the most vulnerable transitions in an employee’s career. Without appropriate support and accommodations, many parents often face a difficult decision between their job and their feeding goals.
“43% of new mothers leave their jobs after giving birth. In companies with lactation support, that number drops to 6%.”— MilkMate, 2023
While 75% of new mothers are excited to return to work after giving birth, 43% ultimately leave their jobs.
In contrast, companies with lactation support programs enjoy a 94% retention rate, compared to the national average of just59%.
Replacing an employee can cost up to twice their annual salary, making retention not just a matter of equity, but of financial prudence.
Lower Health Care Costs
Breastfeeding is linked to improved health outcomes for both infants and parents. Babies who are breastfed require fewer doctor visits and hospital stays, reducing insurance claims and keeping parents at work instead of home with sick children. That translates into lower costs and reduced healthcare claims for employers.
A CIGNA internal study found that employees participating in its lactation support program saved the company $240,000 annually in healthcare costs
Participants had 62% fewer prescriptions and reduced infant illness-related claims
“Lactation support isn’t just about productivity—it’s preventive care.”
Reduced Absenteeism
Breastfeeding has a protective effect on infants’ health, which leads to fewer illnesses—and fewer missed days for parents.
One study found that mothers of formula-fed infants missed twice as many workdays as those who breastfed.
Fewer sick days not only reduce disruption but also lighten the load for managers and teammates.
Productivity and Morale
Workplace lactation support is strongly linked to improved morale, smoother transitions back to work, and greater long-term job satisfaction.
“Knowing my employer had a private space and a clear policy made me feel like I mattered—like they expected me to come back.”— Employee, RMH Compass Survey
Employees in companies with lactation-friendly policies report feeling more valued, less stressed, and more loyal to their employers.
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power found that offering lactation support programs—even in a male-dominated workforce—boosted morale and reduced turnover for both male and female employees.
Recruitment, Reputation, and Return-to-Office
Lactation accommodations send a powerful message about a company’s values. In a competitive hiring market, these policies enhance employer brand and strengthen the return-to-office experience for working parents.
“Lactation-friendly policies aren’t just about moms—they’re about building a workplace that works for everyone.”
Amenities like MilkMate’s all-in-one lactation pods help employers meet PUMP Act requirements and create a best-in-class experience that supports returning employees with dignity and ease.