Breastfeeding and the Workplace

Continuing to breastfeed or supplying your baby with breast milk after returning to work can be a challenge for many mothers. Proper planning and careful organization can help to make your continued breastfeeding or pumping experience less stressful. Once you have decided that you will pump once you return to work you should begin to prepare.

Be sure to develop a strong support system of family and friends who support you in your decision to breastfeed or pump while working outside of the home. Check with your doctor to see if your Health Insurance could possibly cover the cost of your pump since you will be seperated from your child during working hours. Purchase a breast pump that will suit your needs several weeks prior to returning to work. Buying your pump early will give you time to adjust to using the pump and allow you to build up a supply to store in your freezer for your baby’s feedings. Selecting a caregiver that is familiar with handling human breast milk and is used to working with nursing babies can also make this transition easier for you.

Problems that may arise at work

• Lack of privacy, no place to pump
• Unsupportive boss or co-workers
• Limited time for expression

You can avoid having to face these problems when you return to work by addressing any concerns or issues before you take maternity leave. Learning about your state’s laws concerning breastfeeding before you discussing your decision to pump at work with your boss can make the situation easier to handle as well.

If your boss is unwilling to support your decision to breastfeed or pump after you return to work you can inform him or her about how everyone will benefit from this decision. For instance, women who continue to breastfeed make fewer medical claims and are absent for doctor’s visits less because breastfed babies are healthier than infants that are formula fed. Breastfeeding mothers also tend to return to work sooner after maternity and have higher morale.