You’ve packed your pump and are heading to work. Here are some tips to make it a win-win-win: for you, your baby and your employer.
Make a connection
If you know other mamas who have pumped breastmilk at work, talk to them about their experiences and solutions to any challenges they may have had. You can also connect with other mothers on breastfeeding message boards and groups.
Find time to pump
Plan your pumping schedule to replicate your baby’s nursing times so that your body gets the necessary signals to continue producing milk. Try to avoid skipping sessions as this signals your body to produce less milk.
Be flexible
Even if you only have a few minutes, it can be beneficial to still pump. Stimulation is more important for your body’s response than pumping time. However, a drained breast will replenish more milk so ideally pump until empty.
Set aside time
If your schedule is unpredictable, try to think about ways to be creative about when you pump. For instance, it's possible to read or eat lunch while pumping.
Find a private place to pump
Try to find a place where you can pump without disruption. This helps the necessary hormones release for let-down. A lactation room is ideal, but not always available. Avoid using the bathroom as it is not a sanitary place to pump.
Discuss your pumping plans with your employer
If you work for a company with many women of child-bearing age, you may be able to convince your employer of the need for a lactation room. See some helpful facts below to help make your case.
Know your facts
Most U.S. employees have the right to pump breastmilk at work, thanks to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and the more recent Providing Urgent Maternal Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act) passed in December 2022. More specifically, nursing mothers are allowed to take reasonable time to pump in a clean, private space (not a bathroom!) for up to one year after giving birth. For more details, you can visit The Department of Labor website. Many insurances cover pumps - find out if your insurance covers a Lansinoh pump!
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