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Pumping at Work

Every breastfeeding mother who has gone back to work has a story about what has worked for them. There are as many solutions as there are mothers! If you know other women at work who have pumped, talk to them about how it worked for them and how they overcame any challenges.

If you run into obstacles, look for solutions. Be flexible, consider your employer's needs as well as your own, and you should be able to solve problems that arise. Remember that you're doing this for your baby—so your baby can continue to have the very best nourishment, as well as the security of breastfeeding when the two of you can be together. Here are some tips to help:

• Finding time to pump. If you have regular breaks at work, these will become your pumping times. If your schedule is unpredictable, the need to pump may help you become more disciplined. If you are using an electric pump, it's possible to read or eat lunch while pumping, even double-pumping.
• Finding a place to pump. Obviously, you'll need some privacy. You will not release the necessary hormones for a let-down if you do not feel safe. Consider an unused private office, or a storage room with a lock on the door. If you work for a large company that employs many women of child-bearing age, you may be able to convince your employer of the need for a lactation room.
• Making a convincing argument. United States Breastfeeding Committee publishes research that states:
  • Companies that have adopted breastfeeding support programs have noted cost savings of $3 per $1 invested in breastfeeding support.   
  • Parental absenteeism is three times higher for formula-fed infants as compared to breastfed babies
  • Insurers pay at least $3.6 billion each year to treat diseases and conditions preventable by breastfeeding.
  • Companies with an employee lactation support program experience less turnover and lower losses of skilled workers after childbirth. Additionally, these companies are rewarded with higher employee satisfaction, loyalty and morale.