Congratulations! You’ve made it to the point in your breastfeeding journey where you are thinking about your return to the workforce. Though you’re likely feeling apprehension about this step, you should feel proud from your accomplishments offsetting the foundation for your breastfeeding relationship. It’s normal to feel a little unease when it comes to leaving your baby with a caregiver so you can return to work, whether it’s only occasionally or full-time. You might also be
overwhelmed at the thought of pumping and are unsure where to begin.
First, let’s discuss your pumping rights as a pumping mom.
As of March 23, 2010, it is now
a federal law for employers to provide sufficient break time and space for mothers
to express breast milk at their place of employment.
A “reasonable” amount of
time should be given for this, and a bathroom stall does not count as a sufficient
pumping space.
You might have specific questions about these breaks, such as if
they’re paid, how much time to express milk is considered “reasonable,” or who is
in charge of enforcing the law. For answers to these questions and more, we
recommend browsing www.usbreastfeeding.org, which serves a great tool for new
moms to educate themselves regarding their rights.
Now that you are aware of your rights, it’s time to choose a pump. With so many
pumps on the market, how do you know which one is best for your needs? First,
ask yourself
- How often you will need to pump?
- Do you work full time?
- Or are you gone only once or twice a week for a few hours?
You also want to call your insurance and find out if they cover a pump, since many do. The best way to find this information is to call the number located on the back of your health insurance card and speak with a representative about which types of breast pumps are
covered under your plan.
Although most employers are very conscience of you returning to work, and provide all that you need during your readjustment period, some are not and this can make it very difficult for any mom, including adding an unnecessary amount of stress. What was your experience like, do you feel like there was more your employer could have done? And were they clear at explaining what your return would be like?
