The Working Mom’s Guide to Pumping: How to Find Time and Advocate for Your Rights
After your child is born, returning to work will likely be a whirlwind of tasks you have to accomplish. For many mothers, breastfeeding is a very important choice for feeding their newborns; however, pumping breast milk at work may be the most difficult task to accomplish. However, if you plan appropriately and communicate effectively with your employer, you can pump successfully without causing embarrassment or undue stress. Here are some ways that mothers can make pumping a successful part of their daily routines while also advocating for themselves in the workplace.
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Create a Rhythm Around Pumping
Just like any other necessary function in your daily routine, treat pumping as a necessary task. Schedule pumping into your calendar. If your workplace has a shared calendar, mark the time as a “private meeting.” You do not need to explain why you need this time; however, doing it consistently will help colleagues understand and respect your time. Typically, moms find that pumping every 2-3 hours will maintain their supply; therefore, most moms are able to pump two to three times during the workday.
If you tend to be busy throughout the day, use your cell phone or smart watch to send yourself reminders when it is time to pump. The goal is to create a rhythm that becomes second nature over time.
Communicate with Your Supervisor or HR Representative Before Returning to Work
Before you return to work, contact your supervisor or HR representative and discuss your needs. Discuss what facilities will be available for you to pump, whether there are any company policies related to breastfeeding or pumping milk in the workplace, and the flexibility you may require for your schedule. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires employers to provide employees with reasonable break time to pump milk and a safe and private place for employees to pump, which does not include a restroom. These protections exist for all mothers, regardless of whether they are salaried or hourly, full-time or part-time, and are considered a federally protected right.
Approach the conversation with a solution-oriented mindset when communicating your needs with your supervisor or HR representative. As opposed to simply stating, “I need time to pump,” you could state, “I will need to take two twenty-minute breaks per day to pump milk, and I am willing to modify my schedule slightly to allow for these breaks.” A proactive attitude will assist in reducing potential confusion associated with your pumping needs. You will find most workspaces to be very accommodating. Don’t be shy to communicate your needs.
Purchase a Portable and Efficient Pump
Advancements in technology have made it easier than ever to pump efficiently and discreetly. Wearable pumps such as the Elvie or Willow allow you to pump while walking around, typing on your computer, or even participating in a Zoom meeting. Alternatively, you can purchase a portable and efficient pump that does not require batteries; however, if you prefer to be mobile, look for a pump that has a built-in battery pack and remember to wear a pumping bra.
Some moms also create a small “pumping kit” for work. This might include spare pump parts, breast pads, cleaning wipes, and labeled milk bags. If your baby goes to daycare, be sure to have daycare bottle labels ready to avoid mix-ups. These are especially helpful when you’re pumping on the go and prepping bottles in a hurry.
Regardless of what type of pump or accessories you decide to use, practice using them prior to your first day back to work. Test how long you need to pump, and establish realistic expectations for your pumping needs.
Store Milk Safely at Work
In terms of milk storage, less is more. Most break rooms have refrigerators that you can use. Clearly label your bags or bottles with your name and the date. If a communal refrigerator causes you discomfort, bring a small insulated cooler with ice packs to store your milk at your desk.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can safely store milk in a refrigerator for up to four days. Many moms also freeze their milk from Friday for future use at home.
You’ve Got This!
Pumping milk for your baby while at work is not an easy task; however, it is definitely achievable. With a bit of planning and effective communication with your employer, you can balance your responsibilities as a mother and a professional. Each time you pump, you are demonstrating your commitment, strength, and love for your baby. And every working mom is deserving of the support to make that happen.
