The Guide for the Installation and Operation of Breastfeeding Rooms in workplaces, issued by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS), regulates the issue of breastfeeding rooms in Mexico. A breastfeeding room is an assigned, dignified, private, hygienic and accessible area for lactating women to breastfeed or express and properly store breast milk during the working day. It is recommended to have a large and exclusive area. The size will depend on the number of women of childbearing age, as well as the space conditions within the workplace and the respective equipment.

Breastfeeding rooms are important because: (i) they allow women to exercise their right to breastfeed; (ii) with the breastfeeding rooms, the work-family condition is promoted and strengthened; (iii) breastfeeding rooms allow women to develop in the professional and family spheres at the same time; (iv) if there is business support for breastfeeding, the employer does not face the risk of losing a qualified female employee; and (v) by having a breastfeeding room, the company eliminates one of the most common problems related to the abandonment of breastfeeding, in addition to promoting the rights of working mothers. 

Decent work is a right that allows women to be economically independent, as well as access to breastfeeding and adequate nutrition, it is a fundamental human right and the first measure of food security for a baby.

In addition to the benefits that breastfeeding can bring to the mother, the children and the family in general, for companies the incorporation of breastfeeding rooms can bring the following benefits: (i) it reduces work absenteeism; (ii) ensures the return of the mother to work after maternity leave; (iii) it generates greater commitment and a sense of belonging to the company by providing working mothers with facilities to continue breastfeeding their children; (iv) improves the company’s image in society, because it cares about the well-being of working mothers and their families; (v) increases the satisfaction of working mothers by being able to combine motherhood and work; and (vi) supports the retention of the talent of a competent person with work experience.    

Likewise, in inspections of the STPS, the establishment of breastfeeding rooms in workplaces is useful, since this demonstrates that it is a responsible company which carries out actions with a gender perspective.  

At Trejo Gutiérrez Abogados, we have a group of experts in labor matters with more than 20 years in the market. Please do not hesitate to contact us, we will be glad to provide the personalized legal advice that you require.