Being a wet nurse, a woman who breastfeeds another woman’s child, is an ancient practice that has made a comeback in recent years. Though not as common as it once was, some families still rely on the services of wet nurses to provide breastmilk for adopted infants or supplement a mother’s milk supply. So how much does this unique job pay in today’s world? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Wet Nurse?
A wet nurse is a lactating woman who breastfeeds another person’s infant. Wet nursing dates back to ancient times and was quite common before the invention of infant formula in the late 1800s. For centuries, wealthy families would hire wet nurses to feed their infants, either from birth or after the mother stopped breastfeeding. This allowed the mothers to resume their social lives and duties faster.
Wet nurses were invaluable before the availability of formula, especially when a mother died in childbirth or was unable to produce enough milk. The practice declined in popularity in the 20th century but has regained some interest in recent years as more mothers choose to breastfeed.
In addition to feeding another woman’s baby, duties of a modern wet nurse may include:
- Pumping breastmilk for later bottle feeding
- Providing milk for adopted infants
- Supplementing supply for mothers with low production
- Nursing infants while the mother is ill or away
- Providing breastmilk to milk banks for infants in need
A wet nurse can be employed part-time or full-time depending on the family’s needs. Short-term wet nurse services may also be used when a mother needs to be away from her baby temporarily.
Requirements for Becoming a Wet Nurse
A woman interested in becoming a wet nurse should meet the following requirements:
- Is currently breastfeeding her own baby
- Has an established milk supply
- Is in good health with no illnesses that could be passed through breastmilk
- Does not smoke, use illegal drugs or medications that are unsafe for breastfeeding
- Has no signs of infection or inflammation of the breasts
- Agrees to blood tests and screening for infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and hepatitis
Additionally, most families will want references from a potential wet nurse’s pediatrician confirming she is a healthy lactating mother. Some may also require proof of vaccines, prescription records, and even criminal background checks for safety.
How Much Do Wet Nurses Get Paid?
There is no set pay rate for wet nurses as it depends on many factors like location, hours, and duties. However, most sources report the average range is $1000 to $2000 per week for full-time work. Rates in large metro areas also tend to be higher.
Some key considerations that impact a wet nurse’s pay include:
- Full time or part-time: A full-time live-in wet nurse will make the highest salary, while part-time hourly work pays less.
- Number of babies: Nursing multiples or twins requires more time and effort.
- Overnights: Wet nurses who also do overnight feedings typically earn more.
- Pumping milk: Additional pay may be negotiated for pumping extra milk.
- Other duties: Nannying, housekeeping, and cooking duties in addition to nursing can increase pay.
Here are some examples of average wet nurse salaries based on the job details:
| Job Details | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Full time, live-in, nursing one baby with some additional duties | $50,000 – $80,000 per year ($1000 – $2000 per week) |
| Part-time, 20 hours a week just nursing | $15 – $30 per hour ($600 – $1200 per week) |
| Full time for 6 months, nursing twins | $80,000 – $100,000 ($1500 – $2000 per week) |
| Occasional or back-up wet nurse, 5-10 hours a week | $15 – $25 per hour ($75 – $250 per week) |
Wet nurses who are also certified lactation consultants or registered nurses may earn towards the higher ends of these ranges. Experience and excellent references can also increase rates.
Benefits and Perks
In addition to the base salary, some wet nurse positions come with extra perks and benefits such as:
- Use of a car or driver service
- Full private room and board if live-in
- Paid vacation or sick days
- Health insurance
- Retirement contributions
- Bonuses for reaching pumping goals
- Premium pay for overnights and holidays
- Allowance for nursing clothes, pumps and supplies
- Gifts or bonus pay at the end of employment
For short term or hourly jobs, the pay rate alone may be the full compensation. But for long-term wet nurses, especially those doing additional childcare duties, benefits can significantly increase the overall package.
Highest Paying Cities for Wet Nurses
Wet nurse salaries also vary considerably by geographic location. Here are some of the cities and urban areas that offer the highest pay rates in the country:
- New York City, NY: $80,000 – $120,000 per year
- Los Angeles, CA: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
- Chicago, IL: $60,000 – $90,000 per year
- Houston, TX: $55,000 – $85,000 per year
- Philadelphia, PA: $55,000 – $85,000 per year
- Phoenix, AZ: $55,000 – $80,000 per year
- San Francisco, CA: $60,000 – $90,000 per year
- San Diego, CA $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Seattle, WA: $55,000 – $80,000 per year
- Denver, CO: $50,000 – $75,000 per year
Factors like higher costs of living and demand for domestic services drive up pay rates for wet nurses in major metropolitan areas. Rural or smaller urban locations may pay 10-20% less on average.
Taxes and Income Reporting
The income earned by wet nurses is considered taxable income and must be reported. If you are an independent contractor, you may receive a 1099 form documenting your compensation. If you are an employee of a family or agency, you will receive a W-2 showing your wages and withholdings.
Be sure to save for and pay estimated taxes quarterly on 1099 income. Consulting with an accountant knowledgeable about household employee taxes can ensure you remain compliant with IRS rules.
Some families may pay wet nurses “under the table” in cash to avoid taxes. However, this puts the wet nurse at serious financial risk and should be avoided.
Future Outlook for Wet Nurse Pay
While still relatively rare compared to other childcare roles, the niche for wet nurses seems to be growing. With rising interests in attachment parenting, adopted babies, and breastfeeding, the demand for qualified lactation professionals shows no signs of slowing down.
In addition, trends like increased rates of working mothers, surrogacy, and milk banking are also driving more need for wet nurse services. As more families understand the value of human milk and seek every option to provide it, wet nurse rates will likely continue rising.
Some companies are even beginning to offer wet nurse services and benefits. For example, the public sector company Saraya Co. in Japan announced in 2010 it would provide wet nurses for any of its employees who needed it after giving birth. Other private milk banks and agencies now connect mothers and nurses as well.
While still not a common option, wet nursing offers an incredible service for infants and mothers. There will continue to be opportunities for qualified lactation professionals who can provide the unique benefits of breastmilk. As the field evolves, salary ranges for these specialty skills will likely see healthy growth.
Other High-Paying Breastfeeding Jobs
In addition to wet nursing, there are related breastfeeding and lactation consultant roles that come with attractive salaries. Here are a few of the top paying career options for lactation professionals:
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
IBCLCs have special training in breastfeeding support and counseling. They work in hospitals, clinics, private practice and home settings. The average salary is $70,000 – $90,000 annually.
Lactation Consultant
Lactation consultants help mothers with breastfeeding challenges in hospitals, birth centers, clinics or privately. Average salary is $50,000 – $70,000 or $25 – $40 per hour.
Breastfeeding Counselor
Counselors provide basic breastfeeding education and support in community settings. Average wages are $35,000 – $50,000 annually.
Breastfeeding Peer Support
Peer supporters are trained to give breastfeeding advice in community programs. The average rate is $14 – $18 per hour.
Human Milk Bank Technician
Milk bank staff coordinate milk donations, oversee collection and processing. Salaries average $35,000 – $45,000.
Pros and Cons of Being a Wet Nurse
Like any job, being a wet nurse has both upsides and challenges. Here are some key pros and cons to weigh if you are considering this unique career path:
Pros:
- High salaries with potential for generous benefits/perks
- Intimate bonding with babies you care for
- Opportunity to help babies and families
- Flexible schedule possible if part-time
- Can work independently or with an agency
- Travel opportunities available for short-term work
- Nursing experience great for lactation consulting career
Cons:
- Can be demanding providing round-the-clock care
- May need to relocate or live-in for full-time work
- Need access to a breast pump and lactation support
- Requirements like medical screening and background checks
- Potential social stigma in some circles
- Tax/income reporting can be confusing
- Rare but potential health/legal risks
Overall, wet nursing can be a rewarding and lucrative field for the right woman. The ability to provide breastmilk along with loving nurture to babies in need is an invaluable calling. For mothers already pumping extra milk or nursing multiples, it may offer the perfect way to earn an income while doing what you love.
Getting Started as a Wet Nurse
If you’re interested in exploring a career as a wet nurse, here are some tips to get started:
- Talk to your healthcare provider about your fitness for the job.
- Reach out to local nanny agencies, milk banks and lactation support groups.
- Create an online profile on sites like Care.com to advertise your services.
- Consider getting training to become an IBCLC or certified postpartum doula.
- Ask families and contacts to spread the word about your services.
- Screen potential clients thoroughly and get clear on duties, pay and contracts before accepting a job.
- Line up support from a lactation consultant, pumping equipment and childcare for your own baby.
While still uncommon, more families today see the value of breastmilk from a loving wet nurse. With some savvy networking and self-promotion, you may find rewarding opportunities to earn an income while helping nurture little ones.
Conclusion
Wet nursing is an ancient practice that allows mothers unable to breastfeed to still provide human milk to their babies. While not as common today, wet nurses can make $1000 – $2000 per week or more providing their valuable services to families in need. Rates are rising as more people understand the immense health benefits of breastfeeding and seek creative ways to provide it. With proper precautions, being a wet nurse can be a fulfilling and lucrative career option for lactating mothers looking to help other babies while earning a substantial income.