Talking to Your Employers Returning to Work Storing Your Breast Milk Where to Pump Introducing a Bottle
Mother-Friendly Worksite
Breastfeeding allows moms to miss fewer days of work by not having to go to the doctor as frequently because the baby is healthier. 
Dr. Ari Brown
- Before talking to your employer or school, tell your family that you want to continue breastfeeding after you return to work and ask them for their support. Knowing you have their support will give you confidence to talk to your boss.
- Set up an appointment with your employer to talk about your return.
- Before your appointment, practice what you plan to say with your friends or family. This will help you ease your nerves and be prepared.
- You will need a private space to pump. If one is not available, you could use an office, a cubicle, or, if nothing else is available, a bathroom.
- You will need to pump the same number of times you are currently breastfeeding.
- With a double-sided electric pump, each pumping session will take about 15-30 minutes.
- Be prepared to offer to come in early or stay late to make up for the time.
- It is safe to store breast milk in a shared staff refrigerator. Keep it in a closed container so co-workers don’t accidentally add it to their coffee.
- An insulated bag with ice packs can be used for up to eight hours.
