Exploring the promotion of breastfeeding at work in the Western Cape Government

Abstract

This research aimed to identify ways to better support breastfeeding at work, in the context of the WCG as a pilot case. A larger multi-stage project was conceptualised by a multidisciplinary team with this specific research focusing on the initial exploratory stage to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of breastfeeding at work in the WCG. Using a design thinking process, we interviewed seven mothers and five managers of mothers who returned to work after having a baby, to gain insights into the needs of these two user groups. The insights informed the design of prototypes to improve support for breastfeeding at work which were tested with the user groups and refined iteratively. The findings of this research will inform future behavioural insights interventions that could be implemented within WCG Departments. We hope that this in turn can contribute to positive health, social and economic outcomes for South Africa.