How to Use a Breast Pump at Work

One of the challenges of a breastfeeding mom is pumping after you return to work.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Breast Pump
• Milk Storage Bags
• Refrigerated area or ice pack
• Bottles to pump into
• A quiet place
• A bottle brush

1. Before you go back to work, practice pumping at home. This will get you comfortable with pumping without the pressure of being in the workplace.

2. Talk to your employer. Let them know you plan to pump so you can breastfeed. Tell them your pumping schedule, and work with them to work around important meetings. If your employer is not cooperative, research laws in your state- most states protect the right to pump (see links below). Don't let embarrassment keep you from talking to your boss- you're doing what's best for your baby and should be proud of that.

3. Buy or make a pumping bra. This will allow you to use your breast pump hands-free. If you have your own office, you can shut the door and pump, and a pumping bra will allow you to keep working at the same time. This can be a big selling point to a boss.

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   Go to your pumping place. If it is your own office, you can continue to work while you pump. If you are taking a break to pump or are pumping in another office, room, or bathroom, take a book with you. Lock the door or post a sign.

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   Set up your breast pump, following the instructions provided with your pump. Put on your nursing bra and start pumping. Looking at a picture of your baby can help stimulate milk production.

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   When you're done, pour the milk into milk storage bags and store in a cool place, like a refrigerator or freezer bag. Be sure to label the bags with the date and amount.

7. Clean your breast pump equipment before the next use. Use soap, hot water, and a bottle brush to clean the flanges and bottles. They don't need to be sterilized between uses during the day.

Tips & Warnings

• Pumps make noise. It's easy to get embarrassed and think everyone can hear you, but they can't. You're doing what's best for your baby. If anyone asks what you're doing, tell them.
• If a room with a lock isn't available, make yourself a "Do Not Disturb" sign. This will help your piece of mind.
• When figuring out how much time you need to be able to pump, add in about 5 minutes for setup and cleanup.

Resources

• La Leche League State Law Summary

[mommmyof2]

on 6/9/2009 Great Advice for working, pumping moms. I do PR for Easy Expression, the original, patented hands-free pumping bra. You really can type, talk on the phone or write as you pump with this product. It can alleviate stress for you b/c you feel like you're still pulling your weight at work while you pump. You can even hide the pump under your shirt if you have an Easy Expression Bra. As a mom who breastfed two babies, I truly believe in this product. Here's the website if you want to check it out: www.EasyExpressionProducts.com. Good luck working moms!