Tips for Working Moms while Breastfeeding

Going back to work after having a baby can be very stressful for many moms. You’re tired, you’re emotional, you don’t want to leave your baby, you need to figure out child care….the list goes on and on. And on top of that, figuring out how to handle lactating while at work is a whole other thing. These are some tips that have helped me on this journey, and hopefully some will help you too.

1. Communication- First off, communicate with your coworkers, bosses and/or managers to help get a game-plan before you come back to work.  Discuss your need for pumping breaks and ask about  pumping locations designated for employees.
2. Know the law! I am from California, and the LAW states that employers must provide break times and a safe place for moms to express milk for their nursing child for as long as the employee continues to nurse. Check out the law in relation to where you are. Knowledge is power!
3. Mimic your baby’s current feeding pattern- It’s important to mirror your baby’s feeding schedule while you’re away so that you don’t lose your supply. If your baby is eating every 3 hours when you return to work, pump every 3 hours!
4. Nurse before you leave and when you get home- Don’t set yourself up to have to pump right when you get to work. Things happen, and I usually can’t step out for at least a few hours after clocking in. So try to empty your breasts before coming on so that you’re not stuck.
5. Take care of yourself- As a nurse, I’m often swamped and forget to take care of myself. But please allow yourself to DRINK WATER and EAT so that you’re not putting your supply at risk. Care for yourself so that you can care for your baby!
6. Wear a nursing bra- Wear an easy access nursing bra or bring a pumping bra if you prefer. Carving out time to pump can be a challenge, and every minute counts! It saves you from needing to completely undress. Bras with wires aren’t great for breastfeeding anyway!
7. Consider a "hands-free" pump- Wireless pumps allow you to wear your pump inside of your bra and go about your day. This allows you to be hands-free, and depending on your job, you may be able to continue working. Some people prefer these pumps even if they’re not working. Note: Mine was covered 100% by insurance, so check to see what your insurance covers as well!
8. Bring an extra set of pump parts if unable to clean between uses. Per the CDC, it’s recommended to wash the pump parts right after using them. Many people say it’s ok to rinse the parts and then seal them in a ziplock and store in the refrigerator for a few hours between uses. However, if you don’t want to stress about bacterial growth and also don’t have the time to clean, just invest in the extra set of parts. It’s a solid idea to request two sets of parts on your baby registry 😉

Supplies to consider bringing to work

• Pump- bring your pump of choice
• Pump parts (+extra set if possible)
• Breastmilk storage bags
• Pen/sharpie for labeling
• Cooler/lunch box with ice packs (hopefully you just have access to a refrigerator)
• Wipes- there are “quick cleaning” wipes designed for your pump parts, if you want a quick fix and don’t have a sink with dish soap/water available. On a side note, I often use the already-available pumps in the lactation rooms at the hospital I work in, so I make sure to bring sanitizing wipes since other people use them too.
• Paper towels and dish soap if you’re going to wash between sessions.
• Consider the “Kiinde twist pouches”- this brand has pouches and an "adapter" that you can purchase to fit several different pumps. You are able to pump directly into the bags/pouches, saving you from having to wash the bottles and transfer your milk into the bags. Game changer.
• Breast pads- wear them if you tend to leak!

I hope these tips help make your transition back to work slightly less painful. Take care of yourself, so you can continue caring for your baby even while you're away.