A Call to Action for Lactation Support at Colleges of Pharmacy

Abstract

Faculty well-being has been promoted and emphasized in recent years, and the Academy has been implored to develop and implement strategies to minimize stress and burnout among its members. Among those at highest risk of succumbing to burnout are female faculty, particularly those with young children. Numerous work-life issues predispose this cohort to stressors. One specific change that could address the needs of this group is providing lactation support in the workplace. Responding to the broader directive to promote faculty well-being, the aim of this commentary is to stimulate conversation regarding providing lactation support at colleges of pharmacy. Establishing such services has the potential to improve the personal and professional well-being of female faculty who are breastfeeding while also creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace. This article discusses the benefits of breastfeeding; highlights the personal, professional, and institutional ramifications of breastfeeding discrimination; and summarizes best practices related to implementing lactation support services.