As you prepare to return to the workplace, maintaining your breastfeeding routine may seem challenging. Thankfully, many moms have navigated this path and are ready to share their best advice for breastfeeding and pumping while on the job.
Invest in a Quality Pump
While a manual pump might be appealing due to its lower cost, opting for a double electric pump will significantly ease your daily routine. A more efficient pump allows you to express milk faster, giving you more time to spend with your baby. “I used the Medela Freestyle pump, which was portable and came with a battery pack, so I could pump anywhere,” shares Sarah, a physician from Richmond. “Alternatively, consider renting a hospital-grade pump,” suggests Maria, an Atlanta-based teacher. “They’re typically faster and can be exchanged easily if issues arise.”
Know Your Rights
You may not be aware, but you likely have the legal right to pump at work. The Fair Labor Standards Act entitles employees to reasonable break time to express milk during the first year and mandates a private space for this purpose—though this doesn’t apply to businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Many employers may not fully understand these rights, so it’s essential to advocate for yourself. “During my first maternity leave, I pumped in random empty offices, hoping no one would walk in,” recalls Emily, a microbiologist and doula. “The next time, I presented a proposal to management, highlighting the productivity benefits of breastfeeding mothers. They agreed to fund a lactation room, complete with a massage chair and a fridge,” she adds.
Foster Supportive Connections
It can be incredibly beneficial to connect with other breastfeeding moms in your workplace. “The more of us that advocate for breastfeeding, the better our work environment will become,” states Jessica, a law student who successfully pumped during her breaks by sharing space with a fellow breastfeeding mom.
Get Creative with Your Pumping Space
Not everyone will have access to a dedicated nursing area. “As a traveling pharmaceutical sales representative, finding a place to pump was a daily challenge,” shares Hannah. “I often utilized my car or looked for quiet, private spots wherever I was.” For those interested in exploring at-home insemination options, check out Make a Mom, which offers reusable kits and resources like how at-home insemination works. Additionally, you can join a supportive community of mothers in the Make a Mom Facebook group to connect and share experiences.
For further insights into navigating pregnancy and motherhood, consider reading this inspiring story about how Make a Mom helped a family start theirs, and check out the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development for authoritative resources on pregnancy-related topics. If you’re curious about the turkey baster method for insemination, this excellent guide can provide further assistance.
To Summarize:
Balancing breastfeeding with work is entirely achievable with the right tools and support. Invest in a high-quality pump, understand your legal rights, build a network with other breastfeeding moms, and be resourceful in finding pumping locations. Remember, every effort you make contributes to both your well-being and that of your baby.