Remote work can hinder sustained breastfeeding, study finds

A new Washington State University study finds that blurred boundaries between home and work can create barriers to sustained breastfeeding for new mothers, despite the assumed benefits of working remotely. The longitudinal study of 81 mothers found that those working outside the home had the highest probability of exclusive breastfeeding at 70%, followed by remote workers at 60%, while stay-at-home mothers had the lowest at 37%. Researchers say workload intensity and lack of structured support, not just physical proximity, are critical factors. Published during World Breastfeeding Week, the findings highlight the need for employers to offer targeted breastfeeding support and clear workplace boundaries regardless of work location. The study tracked mothers from June 2022 to August 2023, noting that exclusive breastfeeding rates in the U.S. remain at only 27% at six months.