South Carolina

Breastfeeding in South Carolina is supported by various laws, programs, and resources aimed at ensuring that parents can breastfeed their infants safely and comfortably, both at home and in public.

Legal Protections for Breastfeeding

Right to Breastfeed in Public: South Carolina law S.C. Code Ann. § 63-5-40 grants women the right to breastfeed their children in any location where they are authorized to be. The act of breastfeeding is not considered indecent exposure.

Workplace Accommodations: The South Carolina Lactation Support Act requires employers to provide reasonable unpaid break time, or permit the use of paid break or mealtime, for employees to express breast milk. Employers must make reasonable efforts to provide a private location, other than a toilet stall, in close proximity to the work area for this purpose. Discrimination against employees for expressing breast milk in the workplace is prohibited. Learn More

Support for Breastfeeding Families

South Carolina Breastfeeding Coalition (SCBC): SCBC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding across the state. They offer resources, education, and advocacy to help families overcome barriers to breastfeeding.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program: WIC is a supplemental nutrition program that provides breastfeeding information, support, and assistance to eligible families. WIC encourages breastfeeding and offers a positive clinic environment to support nursing mothers.

WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselors: These are mothers from the community who have breastfed their own children and are trained to provide information and support to other breastfeeding mothers. They offer guidance based on personal experience and training.
SC Department of Public Health

La Leche League of South Carolina: This organization provides mother-to-mother support, encouragement, information, and education to assist mothers in breastfeeding. They aim to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother.
La Leche League of South Carolina

These laws and programs aim to support breastfeeding parents in South Carolina, ensuring they have the necessary resources and protections to balance work and family responsibilities while providing optimal nutrition for their infants.