pumping milk at work Archives

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.