pumping milk at work Archives

World Breast Pumping Day: Honoring the Dedication of Pumping Moms

World Breast Pumping Day, observed annually on January 27th, is a special day to acknowledge the incredible dedication and effort of mothers who pump breast milk for their babies. Today we celebrate the strength, resilience, and commitment of the amazing women who prioritize the health and well-being of babies with breastfeeding.

Breast pumping empowers mothers to provide the invaluable benefits of breast milk to their babies even when they cannot be with them directly, but it is not achieved without great effort. It is a chosen responsibility motivated by love; it takes time and effort to learn how to pump well. Whether it’s returning to work, managing a busy schedule, or overcoming challenges related to breastfeeding, pumping mothers demonstrate incredible strength and determination.

History of Breast Pumping

It may surprise most to learn that breast pumps have been around since the 1800s, initially used for medical purposes like treating inverted nipples and assisting infants who were too small or too weak to nurse. It was 1991 before the first first electric breast pump was introduced. This significant shift was particularly impactful because mothers now had access electric breast pumps they could use in their own homes or anywhere of their choosing.

It was 2017 when Wendy Armbruster established World Breast Pumping Day to celebrate and support mothers who pump. Armbruster, a Certified Lactation Educator, had created an award-winning hands-free pumping bra, the PumpEase™, another tool that simplifies a mom’s ability to pump efficiently.

As some women may experience challenges with milk production, breast pumps can be a valuable tool. Pumping stimulates milk production and can help women maintain their milk supply, making it easier to feed their babies, whether they’re at work, traveling, or simply need a break.

Why It Matters

Breast milk truly matters in our world, and breast pumping plays a role in its availability. This liquid gold delivers optimal nourishment to infants around the world and promotes both the short and long-term health of babies and mothers. Breast milk helps give children the best start in life. It’s like an all-in-one of penicillin, therapy, and ice cream, but without breast pumping, many babies would never benefit from mother’s milk.

Breast Pumping Day is an opportunity to support and acknowledge the amazing job of all mothers. Without them, none of us would be here. Pumping moms greatly appreciate this day marked out for them and the extra effort they make to achieve the ability to breastfeeding.

How To Celebrate

Whether you are a currently pumping mother, you formerly pumped, you know someone pumping, or you just want to support the efforts made by others, there are ways to celebrate this special day.

Share your pumping story. If you were a pumping mom or you are new to pumping, today is a day to feel proud of your accomplishments. It is not an easy feat. Share your stories with others. If you are not a pumping mom, take time listen to someone else’s story.

Surprise a mom. Do you know a pumping mom? She may not even realize this special day exists, so surprise her in an unexpected way. Make her lactation cookies. Send a small gift. Help her with some household chores or drop off a meal. Even something as simple as an encouraging phone call or text will be impactful

Reach out. Be an advocate and supporter to the breastfeeding moms you know. You can offer words of encouragement or simply ask them about their journey. It is especially important to the moms who are having a hard time breast pumping or breastfeeding. Give them the opportunity to speak freely about their struggles and encourage them to seek support.

Supporting Your Breastfeeding Journey

At Hygeia Health, we understand the challenges and triumphs of the breastfeeding journey. We are proud to support mothers with our innovative breast pumps, designed to make pumping easier, more efficient, and more comfortable.

Our high-quality breast pumps are designed to get your one-of-a-kind milk to your baby. To apply for a 100%-insurance-covered breast pump, simply visit our website and fill out the application form. We’ll review your application and contact you with the next steps.

Pumping at Work: A Guide for Breastfeeding Moms

The idea of it may feel intimidating, but pumping at work doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little organization and the right tools, you can make it a seamless part of your day.

In this blog post we will walk you through the process of taking on the challenge and creating a smooth experience of pumping at work.

Planning your work/pump flow

Workplace Support: Talk to your employer about your need to pump at work. Many workplaces are required to provide a private space for breastfeeding mothers. You may also be able to take breaks to pump.

Pumping Schedule: It’s important to establish a pumping schedule that works for you and your baby. Aim to pump every 2-3 hours while you’re at work. If your baby is still breastfeeding frequently, you may need to pump more often.

Creating a comfortable environment

Find a Private Space: If your employer doesn’t provide a designated lactation room, seek out a private space where you’ll feel comfortable pumping. This might be a conference room, a private office, or even your own office if you can arrange to be undisturbed. Consider suggesting to your employer that they designate a lactation space for all nursing mothers. This could benefit not only you but also future employees.

Set Up Your Pumping Station: Once you’ve found a private space, set up your pumping station. You’ll need your breast pump, bottles, and a cooler for storing your milk. If your pump requires plugging in, make sure you have a comfortable seat near an outlet. For added comfort, bring a blanket or pillow. And don’t forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water while breastfeeding.

Taking care of your milk

Expressing Milk: Expressing milk can take practice. If you’re struggling to express milk efficiently, especially while pumping at work, a lactation consultant can help you master the proper technique.

Storing Breastmilk: Properly storing breast milk is essential. Store it in a clean container labeled with the date. For extended storage, an insulated cooler with ice packs is ideal. If you have access to a refrigerator at work, you can store your pumped milk there for up to 48 hours. Place it in the back of the refrigerator, where it’s coldest.

Hygeia Health Can Help

At Hygeia Health, we understand the challenges that working mothers face. Our high-quality breast pumps are designed to make pumping easier and more efficient.

We also offer resources and support to help mothers on their breastfeeding journey. Our website provides information on breastfeeding and pumping, and our customer service team is available to answer your questions.

You Can Do It

Pumping at work can be a challenge, but it’s definitely possible. We believe that every mother should have access to the tools and support they need to breastfeed their baby. That’s why we offer 100% insurance-covered breast pumps to qualified mothers.

To apply for a free breast pump, simply visit our website and fill out the application form. We’ll review your application and contact you with the next steps.

Pumping and Storing | Hygeia Health

While it would be great if it were always convenient to breastfeed baby directly, sometimes that’s just not the case! Life can be hectic, and it can be hard to plan out, pump, and store for baby feeding.

When it comes time to pump and store breastmilk, there are plenty of resources to help. Check out part of KellyMom’s super handy Milk Storage Guide below (she offers more information if you click on the link!) and these pumping and storing tips from Texas WIC.

From KellyMom:

To avoid waste and for easier thawing & warming, store milk in 1-4 ounce portions. Date milk before storing. Milk from different pumping sessions/days may be combined in one container – use the date of the first milk expressed. Avoid adding warm milk to a container of previously refrigerated or frozen milk – cool the new milk before combining. Breastmilk is not spoiled unless it smells really bad or tastes sour.

To thaw milk

Thaw slowly in the refrigerator. (This takes about 12 hours – try putting it in the fridge the night before you need it.) Avoid letting milk sit out at room temperature to thaw.
For quicker thawing, hold container under running water – start cool and gradually increase temperature.

Previously frozen milk may be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours after it has finished thawing. Do not refreeze.

To warm milk

Heat water in a cup or other small container, then place frozen milk in the water to warm; or
Use a bottle warmer.
NEVER microwave human milk or heat it directly on the stove.

The cream will rise to the top of the milk during storage. Gently swirl milk (do not shake) to mix before checking temperature and offering to baby.

If baby does not finish milk at one feeding, it is probably safe to refrigerate and offer within 1-2 hours before it is discarded.”

Tips from Texas WIC

Start pumping on maternity leave. If you plan to go back to work, it’s a good idea to begin pumping while you are still on maternity leave. It will help you get prepared and build a backup supply of breastmilk. You can begin anytime you feel ready. Start with pumping once a day between feedings. Many moms find that they are able to express more milk in the morning. Once you find a time that works best for you, try to pump around the same time each day.

Keep a consistent schedule. When you return to work, you will need to express your milk during the times you would normally feed your baby. Let your employer know about the importance of keeping that same schedule. Pumping at work will help you breastfeed your baby longer because it tells your body to keep making milk. It will also keep your body comfortable so that you can focus on work.