How to navigate pumping at work

The secrets of seamless breastfeeding and work-life balance

If you’re a mama who’s getting ready to return to work, the idea of juggling breastfeeding with your commute and role might be a bit daunting, so we have rounded up the 8 tips to help you navigate pumping at work.

You’ve spent days, weeks and months feeding your bub and if you arm yourself with this practical advice you can successfully navigate pumping at work.

8 tip to make expressing milk at work easier

1.Invest in a quality breast pump: A good electric breast pump can save time and help maintain milk supply. Wirefree Tommee Tippee Made For Me^TM In-Bra Wearable Breast Pump is ideal as you pop it in your bra and then get on with the rest of life! This pump is handsfree, operated by an app, which means it discreet and easily portable.

2. Start pumping before you return to work: It might sound obvious, but if you start expressing milk a few weeks before your return to work, you’ll not only build up a good supply you’ll get also used to the routine. Aim for pumping sessions every 3-4 hours to maintain milk supply.

Woman putting wearable breast pump in her bra and also brushing her hair — Get into a pumping routine before you head back to work. (Image: Supplied)

3. Communicate with your employer: Discuss your needs with your boss before returning to your place of work. Understand your rights and explore options for a private pumping space and flexible breaks – you’ll want to continue your routine as best you can. Once back at work, book the private space, if possible and, consider using a ‘do not disturb’ sign to ensure uninterrupted pumping sessions. The Tommee Tippee Wearable Breast Pump is quiet and discreet, which can be reassuring for new mums.

4. Ensure proper storage: Make sure there is ready and easy access to a fridge where you can safely store your milk using clean and sterilised containers, or milk pouches. The milk collector of the Tommee Tippee In-Bra Wearable Breast Pump can be sealed and stored in the fridge. Label each container with the date and time of pumping. If there is no fridge, you’ll need to prepare a cool bag with ice packs.

Tommee Tippee Wearable Breast Pump mimcs your baby’s sucking. *(Image: Supplied)*

5. Practice relaxation techniques: Being relaxed helps with milk letdown and looking at photos of your baby may enhance your pumping experience. The ConstantComfort™ tech of the Tommee Tippee Made For Me™ In-Bra Wearable Breast Pump is specially designed to mimic your baby’s sucking motion, which helps with letdown, plus holds the pump in place for an effective, gentle experience.

6. Use a pump that massages: Tommee Tippee Made For Me™ In-Bra Wearable Breast Pump has a massage setting that can help maximise milk flow and empty the breasts effectively. The app allows you to change the expressing mode and see how much milk you’re pumping. And, because it’s a completely handsfree experience, you can multitask while feeding. If you want to.

Woman wearing Tommee Tippee Wearable Breast Pump while working on a techinical machine at work — Hands-free pumping makes it easier to expess milk while you’re at working. *(Image: Supplied)*

7. Seek support from colleagues: Connect with other breastfeeding mothers at work for support and advice. Check in with your HR or People & Culture team to find out the best way to make contact.

8. Clean your pump: Check if there is somewhere you can discreetly rinse your pump while you’re at work. It might not be possible, in which case be sure to clean it properly when you get home.

Brought to you by Tommee Tippee