Feature: Chinese working moms face breastfeeding dilemma (2)

One of Makelin's goals is to encourage Chinese working moms to continue breastfeeding their babies.

"It is quite common, especially in western countries, for mothers to keep breastfeeding even after they go back to work. A lot of moms know the benefits of breastfeeding for both their babies and themselves; they really have a commitment to keep doing it," Makelin said.

"A lot of moms feel when they are at work and they are pumping for their babies maybe two or three times a day, it is a time for them to actually feel close and connected to their babies, even though they are at the office and the babies are at home," Makelin added.

To raise awareness and support for breastfeeding mothers, the UNICEF Office for China has built a sample breastfeeding room called "10 square meters of love," a private space equipped with chairs, electricity sockets, a refrigerator and lots of toys. The group hopes that by setting an example, breastfeeding rooms will be set up in public buildings and workplaces throughout China.

"The information is so clear about the benefits of breastfeeding, not just benefits for the baby, but for the mother. This is very important for China. We all know that breastfeeding is a powerful prevention for heart diseases, diabetes and obesity, which are health problems in China," said Dale Rutstein, UNICEF chief of communication and partnership in China.

"Strong babies make a strong nation. If China really promotes breastfeeding throughout the country, billions in healthcare costs will be saved and the lives of the whole population will be improved," Rutstein added.

Ma Yili, a well-known Chinese actress, also serves as UNICEF Special Advocate for Breastfeeding and Early Childhood Development. She gives public speeches and uses her microblog to share her personal experience and encourage working mothers to continue breastfeeding

After giving birth five years ago, Ma breastfed her daughter for nine months, during which time she overcame challenges such as acute mastitis and the inconvenience of pumping and storing breast milk while shooting films.

"Breastfeeding can be carried on after mothers go back to work as long as they make a strong commitment. If society gives more support, working mothers will be more confident in doing that," Ma said.