Are you a breastfeeding working mom? Way to go, momma! Breastfeeding in and of itself is just about as demanding as a full-time job. And it can be hard to manage when you have to get up and go to work all day. If you are away from your baby for a large chunk of the day, chances are you are pumping to keep your milk supply up and to develop a milk stash for your little one. However, this is no easy task, so I wanted to share eight hacks designed especially for those breastfeeding working moms who need to pump on the go.
Hacks for the Breastfeeding Working Mom
1. Get Organized
If you are pumping at work, you must bring your pump and all your supplies. Being organized about getting all of this ready the night before can make your life ten times less stressful when it’s time to get out the door to work.
2. Stock up on Nursing Bras
Nursing bras are perfect for the breastfeeding working momma. There are even nursing bras designed just for pumping so you can pump hands-free. Try to stock up on a handful of these nursing bras before baby arrives to make pumping and breastfeeding on the go easier.
3. Stock up on Milk Storage Bags/Containers
When returning to work, you will need a handful of storage bags or containers to store your pumped milk in. Think about what will be most convenient for you and make sure to buy a bunch before baby arrives. You can also bring a separate insulated lunch bag to keep the stored milk in after each pumping session.
4. Bring a “Breastfeeding Bag” To Work
Many breast pumps already come with a tote bag, but if yours doesn’t, you may want to consider buying a tote bag specifically for all of your pumping supplies. You will want the bag to be large enough to hold the pump, your storage bags or containers, and other necessities like breast pads and, of course, some breastfeeding snacks!
5. Set a Timer Throughout the Day Reminding You to Pump
While at work, it’s easy to let time slip by, and you may forget to pump. To ensure you keep your milk supply high while at work, set some timers throughout the day to go and pump. This makes things easier for you and you have to remember one less thing!
6. Pack Snacks!
Let’s face it, breastfeeding can make you hungry, and your caloric demands do increase, so it’s important to snack and eat accordingly. Pack snacks like oat-based granola bars, nuts, seeds, and fresh fruit in your breastfeeding bag to enjoy while pumping at work.
7. Find a Spot to Pump
Balancing breastfeeding and work is tough, and not all jobs make it easy to stick to your pumping routine. If you have a job offering a comfortable spot to pump, that’s amazing. Many moms are not so lucky and have difficulty finding a private and comfortable space to pump. When this is the case, you may need to get creative. Speak with your supervisor before you start maternity leave, let your boss know you will need a place to pump upon your return and see if they can work with you! You never know until you ask.
Helpful resources:
- How Moms Can Make Sure They Can Breast Pump at Work
- Pumping at Work: What Are Your Rights in the Workplace
8. Buy Essential Pumping Tools to Keep in Your Bag
Having things like specific breast pump cleaning wipes and hand sanitizer nearby will make your pumping sessions much less stressful. You won’t have to worry if you don’t have a sink nearby to clean your pump and sterilize your hands.
While breastfeeding is a demanding job, it is also very rewarding. Returning to work after having a baby and having to find a way to continue to pump can make this job a little bit harder. However, keep these eight tips in mind to help make pumping at work just that much easier! With some preparation and practice, you will be well on your way to becoming an expert at pumping on the go.
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