The Balancing Act: Pumping and Working Full Time as a New Mom

Introduction:

Everyone tells you to breastfeed to save money or breastfeeding is good for the baby, but no one tells you how hard and time-consuming breastfeeding is. When I decided to go back to work and continue to exclusively pump, the biggest challenge I faced was the inconvenience it may seem at times. Exclusively pumping at work becomes a necessary routine, which adds a new layer of complexity to an already demanding schedule. If you decide to continue to pump while going back to work full-time, take a deep breath, I am here to try to help you. In this blog post, I'll try to help you explore practical tips and strategies that helped me successfully navigate and balance exclusively pumping and working full time.

Understand Your Rights:

First things first, make sure you have the opportunity to pump at work. Make sure there is a private place where you can pump. Most of the time the country requires companies to provide reasonable break time and a private space (other than a bathroom) for pumping.

Invest in a Quality Pump:

Make sure you spend the time to research the pump you want. A good-quality breast pump can make a significant difference in your pumping experience. If you have the option with a plug, I recommend getting a double electric pump for a strong efficient pump. They also sell portable ones, which are usually for on-the-go convenience, but if your workspace does not allow you to plug the electronic one in, this is a great alternative.

Create a Pumping Schedule:

Create a schedule that works with your hours. Make sure this schedule is one you can keep going. Consistency is key. Pumping at the same time, helps maintain your milk supply and helps avoid clogged ducts which can lead to infections like mastitis. Which I have experienced many times and let me tell you, this is something you do not want to experience. It is very painful. The pumping schedule that worked best at work was pumping at lunchtime and then again right before you leave and or on the way home. This helps with keeping you on a schedule by making sure you don't schedule your pumping session when you can have a meeting. Once you figure out what times will work best for you, make sure you communicate your pumping schedule with your supervisor and colleagues to ensure support along with effective privacy.

Designate a Pumping Space:

In my office, I was lucky enough to have my own space with a door that locked so pumping in privacy was pretty easy. But not everyone will have that luxury. If not, here are some ways to find the best space for you. First things first, identify a comfortable and private space. This area should be well-equipped with an electrical outlet, a chair, and a table for your pump and accessories. Make sure this place is clean and hygienic. Your pumps can be pretty loud at times, so another thing to ensure is that the place you choose is somewhere quiet and away from people so that you will not disturb others while they are working. Pumping was very stressful at work for me. I hated the fact that I had to stop every 3ish to 4 hours to make time to pump. But because you have to do it, I told myself to make the most of your pumping sessions. No need to work myself up, it's something that has to be done. Take the time to relax and destress. Consider activities like deep breathing, listening to soothing music, or looking at pictures of your baby to stimulate milk flow.

Stock Up on Supplies:

You can never have too many breastmilk storage bags and/or containers, as well as cleaning supplies for your pump parts. Having extras on hand can help reduce stress and ensure you're always prepared.

Stay Organized:

For my situation, I usually would store my bags in the freezer until they were frozen then take them home. To ensure they stayed frozen, I made sure I used a dedicated cooler or bag to transport all my pumped milk to and from work. Make sure you keep them labeled and organized so you know the exact date you pumped them and how many ounces in each back. This is very important to help use the oldest milk first. A pumping log can help you keep track of your output.

Keep your Employer Updated:

Keep an open communication with your employer and/or supervisor about your pumping routine and any needs that may come through your process. Stay on top of discussing any necessary adjustments to your work schedule or responsibilities to accommodate your pumping breaks. Open communication will help keep yourself along with your employer organized.

Seek Support:

I was one of the first members of my family who exclusively pumped but also worked a full-time, very demanding job. What helped me stay organized and keep me on track was connecting with other working moms who are also pumped. The lady next to my office was a huge help. She exclusively pumped and worked full-time for all three of her kids. She helped me order the best pump, make a schedule, and even help with the weaning-off process. Don’t be afraid to ask others. They can provide valuable advice, support, and a sense of camaraderie. If you are still feeling alone, another helpful thing would be to look at joining online or local breastfeeding support groups.

Be Kind to Yourself:

Remember, pumping while working full-time is a significant commitment and can be physically and emotionally challenging. I really did not enjoy it at first but I tried to stay positive and patient. It can get really hard to stay organized but the best thing you can do is seek support from your partner, family, and friends. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Conclusion:

Balancing a full-time job with the demands of pumping and breastfeeding is one of the hardest things I ever had to do. It tested my dedication and patience as a mother. But I was able to get through it, and successfully worked and pumped full time for the first year. It can most definitely be done with careful planning, a supportive workplace, and a positive mindset. The most important thing to remember is it's about finding a routine that works for you and your baby. Be patient with yourself. The milk you are working so hard to pump is providing your baby with the nourishment, and love, and keeping you connected with your little one no matter where you are during the day.