The World Health Organization, the US Surgeon General, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and The American Academy of Pediatrics all agree that breastfeeding is the gold standard for feeding newborns. As such, many working parents do not want to sacrifice its benefits.
Stephanie Boms and Della Leapman, the founders of Nessel, are passionate about providing everything organizations need to support breastfeeding employees as they return from maternity leave. “By offering clean and comfortable places for breastfeeding parents to pump, organizations demonstrate their commitment to supporting diverse and inclusive cultures,” says Boms. “We take our responsibility to educate leaders, executives, and pumping employees seriously so you don’t have to give up breastfeeding when you return to the workplace.”
Here are five ways you can make pumping both easy and enjoyable.
Tip #1: Pick the right pump
There are many varieties of breast pumps on the market. New parents can ask for opinions and read reviews, but ultimately, the best choice boils down to their unique needs.
“Consider where you’ll be pumping and whether or not you will have a place to plug in your pump,” Boms advises. “Both hand pumps and electric pumps are useful depending on the situation.”
Tip #2: Stock up on accessories
Pumping employees should plan for any additional equipment needed for expressing and storage of pumped breastmilk. “A good storage bag is a must,” Boms says. “Include bottles, lids, and anything else that makes pumping work for you. Don’t forget additional supplies such as lanolin or other creams, chargers and a pumping bra.”
Tip #3: Prepare to transport your pumped breastmilk
New mothers will need access to a refrigerator to keep breastmilk cool at work. Insulated coolers with ice packs can stand in for a few hours.
“Many pumps come with travel bags or bottles to store breastmilk,” Boms remarks. “If yours doesn’t, be sure to purchase them, but remember to fill the storage bags only to the three-quarter mark to leave room for breastmilk to expand. The same is true when using the storage bottles.”
Tip #4: Stay nourished and hydrated
Pumping is hard work. Don’t forget a water bottle and snacks for yourself to maintain peak levels of milk flow, and prioritize support and care for your body.
According to a report entitled “Nutrition Recommendations in Pregnancy and Lactation” by Michelle A. Kominiarke, MD and Priya Rajan, MD the NIH’s National Library of Medicine, breastfeeding requires around 500 extra calories every day. Those who are breastfeeding should fuel their body with whole grains, vegetables, and plenty of protein to stay healthy and nourished.
Tip #5: Plan where you’ll pump
Employees who plan to continue breastfeeding require a private, sanitary place to pump several times during the workday. Before their first day back, they should speak with managers about their company’s designated place for nursing employees.
“By law, you are entitled to a space that is not a bathroom,” Boms says. “If your worksite does not have a space, work with your HR manager to establish one. There are many ways to create a safe and sanitary nursing mother’s room that are easy and not expensive. It doesn’t have to be hard.”
