Breastfeeding for Working Mothers: How to Make It Work at Work

Being a breastfeeding working mothers can at times be quite a challenge. Mothers oftentimes wonder if they are capable of expressing milk, storing it, maintaining their milk supply and still be able to keep up with a hectic routine. The fact is that if they apply the correct methods they are able to satisfy the breastfeeding needs of their kids and not give up on their career.

In this article, we will provide some real-life examples of how you can successfully combine breastfeeding and work, including pumping schedules, milk storage, and tips for a comfortable day at work. Moreover, a device like a fully automatic bottle washer can be very helpful in giving you back time for your job and your baby. Let's learn more!

Planning Ahead: Setting Up a Feeding and Pumping Strategy

Success for breastfeeding working mothers is mostly a matter of preparation. Having a well laid-out plan before going back to work can simplify the change and make it possible to continue the milk flow. Think about how the baby is fed, what your work place will look like and how much time you are going to need for the pump during the day.

Some of the tips that can help you make a plan include:

• Begin getting used to it as early as possible – Pumping should be introduced a couple of weeks before going back to work so that a freezer stash can be built up.
• Get familiar with your baby’s schedule – Make your pumping sessions correspond to your baby’s regular feeding times.
• Speak with your employer – Breaking off times, and a private space for pumping are good topics for discussion with your employer.
• Get storage under control – Cooler bags and labeled containers can be used for the storage of milk in a safe way.
• Get ready at home – Depending on time savers like an automatic bottle washer which cleans bottles with less effort can make the preparation for feeding at home easier.

Knowing Your Rights: Breastfeeding Laws in the Workplace

For many breastfeeding working mothers, understanding workplace rights is just as important as setting up a pumping routine. You are protected by the law in many countries and are guaranteed the time and an appropriate space to express your milk. When you know these rights, you feel safer and more supported during your career-motherhood balance.

In the majority of places, the following are the minimum provisions that employers are required to give:

• Lactation breaks during a working day.
• A room or space that is not a bathroom selected for privacy.
• Legal protection against discrimination because of breastfeeding or pumping milk.
• Open communication with the management or HR.
• Milk storage facilities like a refrigerator or an icebox for milk kept at low temperature.

How to Build a Freezer Stash Before Returning to Work

Breastfeeding working mothers consider it very convenient to have a freezer milk supply. It is like ensuring that the baby is fed at all times during the day and you are not there. Plus, it gives a little bit of freedom for days when the time is too tight or the schedule too unpredictable.

Here are some useful tips to get your stash started:

1. Start slowly but early – Pump once a day after the first morning feed only.

2. Freeze in small portions – Store small amounts of milk in bags to avoid discarding any.

3. Mark each bag with the date – Follow the FIFO method to use the oldest milk first.

4. Buy some storage equipment – Use flat-freeze bags if you want your freezer space to be saved.

5. Regulate your pumping schedule – If you pump at the exact same time it will signal to your body that it should produce more milk.

6. Keep calm – Worry and tension can hinder your milk secretion so make sure to do it in a place that is comfortable for you.

Choosing the Right Breast Pump for Your Workday

A suitable breast pump can really be a game-changer for the breastfeeding working mothers at work as it helps to manage the milk supply as well as the time. Since you’ll be using the pump quite often when you’re not with your baby, it is only fair that you select one that is comfortable, efficient, and easy to use. 

Not only a pump that goes with your daily rhythm helps to keep the supply of milk but also lessens the agony when you have little time during the hectic work hours.

While selecting a pump, consider the portability if you can take it with you on a trip, efficiency if you are a time saver kind of person, and noise level for a secretive or less disturbing pumping. Battery or rechargeable options, easy-to-clean parts, and adjustable suction settings are some of the features that make your day easier. 

If a pump that is equally comfortable and practical becomes your choice, then not only will you be able to meet the needs of your baby, but you will also stay confident and be able to concentrate at work.

Creating a Pumping Schedule That Fits Your Job

The struggle to juggle work and breastfeeding in the proper way can be very stressful initially, but once you get on with a certain routine it becomes way more manageable. Planning a little will allow you to fit in your daily work schedule without getting stressed out.

Below is an example of a pumping schedule for a typical 9 AM – 5 PM shift:

Managing Supply and Staying Consistent Away From Baby

For breastfeeding working mothers, maintaining a milk supply that is stable and consistent when separated from their baby can be a real struggle, but if they have the right habits it is a very achievable goal. 

The most important thing is to understand that your body makes milk as a result of frequent stimulation, so the time of the day and what you do at home with your baby are equally important. Here are some more ways to keep the supply going:

1. Massage before pumping – A gentle breast massage can help a stronger milk flow.

2. Double pump when possible – Time is saved and the production can be increased.

3. Rotate freezer stash – Always consume the oldest milk first so as not to go to waste.

4. Track pumping output – This makes it easier for you to find changes earlier and to adjust accordingly.

5. Keep extra parts at work – The availability of spare pump accessories is a guarantee of no missed sessions.

6. Create a calming routine – Doing one or more of the following: listening to music, sipping warm tea, etc. can be a way of making pumping more convenient.

Finding Support From Your Employer and Coworkers

Support at the workplace can bring a big impact for many breastfeeding working mothers as it helps to balance both work and feeding goals.

If your employer and coworkers are aware of your pumping schedule, and they not just recognize but even support it by doing small acts of kindness, it is really a great feeling that the pressure is not so heavy and the whole experience is more enjoyable. Suggestions for gaining support at work include:

• Communicate needs early – Inform your team when you are going to pump.

• Request a lactation area for yourself – A number of workplaces have special rooms for this purpose.

• Disclose your schedule – Others will know when they can do their work without disturbing you.

• Get help from the coworkers – They who are willing to support you can become your backup for a short time.

• Keep your friends close – Let your team know you appreciate their support.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a breastfeeding working mother may at times feel that it is difficult to handle the situation. But on the other hand, the right support and planning will make it work out without any hassle. Pumping for milk, refrigerating the milk, and getting support at work are all small milestones that will help you keep the pace of your caring routine. An automatic bottle washer, for instance, is one of the time-saving gadgets that, though less exhausting, still make your day less stressful.

Don't forget that self-care is just as important and asking for help when you cannot make it all by yourself is a part of being a good mother. You can have it all - the breastfeeding journey, your career, and the support of your loved ones.