The Break Time for Nursing Mothers law, passed in 2010, requires employers to provide reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space for breastfeeding employees to pump during the work day. While this was an important step, nearly one in four women of childbearing age were not covered by the Break Time law.  ​The PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act (S. 1658/H.R. 3110), signed into law on December 29, 2022, makes…

Pregnant women who are Black, live in a rural area or have a household income under $50,000 experience significant disparities in maternity care, a What to Expect survey found. In May and June 2022, What to Expect surveyed 1,406 women who were either pregnant or had given birth within the last 12 months about their maternity care. Key findings: 1 in 4 pregnant women have felt ignored or dismissed by a maternity care…

This month, I am happy to spotlight the What to Expect Project (WTEP), a PMNCH member of the NGO constituency that is holding its 8th annual #BumpDay initiative on 20 July.  Every day, more than 800 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy or childbirth worldwide, and there are currently vast disparities in care based on where a mom lives, her ability to pay and the color of their skin.  Founded…

What to Expect creator and What To Expect Project founder, Heidi Murkoff sat down with Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General, to answer your top questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. The two discuss everything from why getting vaccinated is a safe choice for expectant parents to the best ways to keep your little ones protected.