Implementation Strategies for Supporting Exclusive Breastfeeding Policies Among Working Mothers in the Workplace

Ratna Utami Wijayanti; Woro Nurul Seftianingtyas; Yasinta Dewi Kristianti; Aulia Hervi Anggraini; Marta Rodriguez

doi:10.34306/ijcitsm.v6i1.260

Authors

Ratna Utami Wijayanti Bhakti Pertiwi University of Indonesia
Woro Nurul Seftianingtyas Bhakti Pertiwi University of Indonesia
Yasinta Dewi Kristianti Bhakti Pertiwi University of Indonesia
Aulia Hervi Anggraini Bhakti Pertiwi University of Indonesia
Marta Rodriguez Eduaward Incorporation https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1367-0511

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34306/ijcitsm.v6i1.260

Keywords:

Exclusive Breastfeeding, Workplace Breastfeeding Support, Breastfeeding Policy Implementation, Working Mothers, Digital Health Communication

Abstract

The rights of working women to breastfeed in the workplace are supported by the government through the formulation of various policies concerning exclusive breastfeeding. This study is a descriptive analytical research that delineates policies on exclusive breastfeeding for working mothers, its implementation in the workplace, and digital innovations potential as a support strategy. Data collection was conducted through a literature review of relevant research topics. The results indicate that various policies at the national, provincial, and regional levels have been established to support breastfeeding, including in the workplace environment. Consequently, it is mandatory for workplaces to provide lactation rooms for expressing breast milk during working hours. In practice, several factors influence a working mother's ability to maintain exclusive breastfeeding. Enabling factors include time flexibility for expressing breast milk, availability of breastfeeding facilities, and internal company policies. Conversely, inhibiting factors include working mother’s anxiety, the absence of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) regarding breastfeeding, low awareness due to limited knowledge, and a production-oriented workplace culture. Opportunities for digitalization can bolster policy implementation by establishing digital support groups for working mothers, guided by breastfeeding counsellor. Furthermore, digital health communication facilitates easy access to accurate information regarding breast milk management. Ultimately, government involvement is crucial in assisting workplaces with the implementation of these breastfeeding policies.

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