BREASTFEEDING & WORK

Returning to work after having a baby is never an easy task.  One important consideration you will have to make is whether to continue breastfeeding.  Breast milk is only produced if it demanded.  Whether by baby or pump, if you want to maintain your milk supply your breasts must be emptied every two to three hours.  

How often will I need to pump?

For some women, pumps are less efficient than their baby at emptying the breast.  In order to maintain your milk supply you will want to pump at a minimum of every 3rd hour you are away from your baby for a minimum of 10 minutes, preferably 15-20.   If you already have a low milk supply you may need to pump more frequently and for longer periods.  Because of the frequency and the need to hold the pump shield in place while pumping, we strongly recommend use of the Hands Free Breast Pump Bra.

When Should I Begin to Pump?

Starting to pump well before you return to work has an added benefit of driving up your milk supply and allowing you to freeze a bank of milk.  Some of our moms like to feed the baby from one breast and pump the other, storing any excess milk for their baby's use sometime in the future.  Building up a bank takes the pressure off once you return to work, in the event you have time or facilities conflicts.

Finding A Pump

You will want to choose a pump and make sure that it works for your before you return to work.  You should allow enough time to try alternate pumps, in the event one is not comfortable or you find you are not getting a successful yield from your pumping session.  

What types of pumps are available and what do they cost?

There are several types of pumps available on the market.   There are many choices that vary depending features you want and price you are willing to pay.  You can purchase anything from a small hand held, single breast, battery operated pump for under $50 to a hospital grade, electric, double breast pump for as much as $1,500.   If you can manage it, we feel it is worth investing in a double electric pump because of the time saving and better milk yield.

Where can I get a pump?

Small hand held battery operated pumps can be found in most grocery stores and general merchandise stores such as Target or K-Mart.  Hospital grade electric pumps can be purchased or rented through Lactation Consultants, Hospitals, Pump Retailers (that are most likely maternity stores) and companies on internet.  Soon, you can find a pump right here at BreastfeedingWorld.com

Should I buy or rent?

If you are considering purchasing a hospital grade, electric, double pump, you should make sure that it works for you before you buy it.  We recommend that you rent one and try it out.  You don't have to worry about germs left by previous renters because you must purchase new breast shields and tubing from the rental station.  Once you know the pump will work for you then you can feel comfortable that you are not wasting your money by purchasing it.

Preparing Baby

Preparing you baby by introducing him or her to a bottle well in advance of your return to work is good way to make the transition smooth.  Drinking from a bottle is quite different from nursing at the breast and your baby may need some time to make the adjustment.  Start off with one feeding per day and gradually work your way up to a full-day of bottle feedings.  

Talking to Your Employer

If you plan to continue breastfeeding, you will need to inquire at your company about policies related to pump breaks and whether there are facilities you will require in order to express your milk.  

If your company has no policies regarding pumping or is not supportive or you, perhaps you can persuade them with this fact:

According to an article published by U.S. News in 1997, employers found that when their employees chose to breastfeed, the result was an estimated savings of $1,435 on medical claims and three-days of sick leave per breast-fed baby for a total savings of $108,737 (a 3-1 return on investment in insurance claims alone).

Are there any laws that can force my employer to allow me to pump?

Laws that force your employer to provide you with pump breaks or facilities vary from state to state.  However, if you work a standard 8 hour day your employer is required, by law, to give you one 30 minute and two 10 minute breaks.  Your employer can not dictate what you do on those breaks.   

Where there is a will, there is a way.  If you do not have a facilities to pump and drive a car that can be parked in a private place, some pump manufacturers make adapters that use your cars battery to run the pump.  

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Disclaimer:  BreastfeedingWorld.com would like to remind you that any actions taken as a result of information obtained from this site are done so at the risk of the reader.  It is recommended that you discuss your plans with your doctor and your baby's doctor before taking any actions.  Please read our legal page.

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