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Colorado

Pregnancy, birth and the first year in Colorado, in 14 topics: from who runs maternal and child health to what happens at your newborn's screening.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding in Colorado is supported through comprehensive laws, programs, and resources to ensure that parents can breastfeed their infants safely and comfortably, both at home and in public settings.

Legal Protections for Breastfeeding
Right to Breastfeed in Public: Colorado law explicitly permits individuals to breastfeed in any place they have a right to be, ensuring that breastfeeding in public is protected and free from discrimination.

Workplace protections for breastfeeding: The Colorado Workplace Accommodations for Nursing Mothers Act mandates that all employers provide reasonable unpaid break time or allow the use of paid break and mealtime each day for employees to express breast milk for up to two years after the child's birth. Employers are also required to provide a private, non-bathroom space for this purpose and are prohibited from discriminating against employees who exercise these rights.

Support for Breastfeeding Families
Colorado WIC Program: The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Colorado offers breastfeeding education, counseling, and support. They provide resources such as the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program, where experienced breastfeeding individuals offer guidance and support to new mothers.

Breastfeeding in Rural and Remote Communities

Telehealth and Mobile Support: To reach mothers in rural areas, Colorado utilizes telehealth programs to provide lactation support and education, ensuring that distance does not hinder access to necessary resources.

Local Resources and Peer Support: Many communities in Colorado have local breastfeeding support groups and peer counseling programs.

Education and Awareness

Advancing Breastfeeding in Colorado (ABC): The ABC project aims to reduce health disparities and improve overall health by creating a seamless system of breastfeeding support across various settings, including workplaces, childcare facilities, medical offices, and communities.

Colorado Breastfeeding Coalition: This organization provides local breastfeeding information, including details on lactation-friendly workplaces, childcare programs, and medical offices, serving as a valuable resource for breastfeeding families.

These comprehensive laws and resources underscore Colorado's commitment to supporting breastfeeding families, ensuring they have the necessary protections and support to successfully breastfeed their infants.

Looking for an organization near you in Colorado?

Hospitals, birth centers, doulas, WIC clinics, milk banks and more are listed by county. Enter a ZIP code or city to see yours.