pumping at work

christine_marie

I have an interview tomorrow for a part time job. It would be two eight hour shifts a week. I FF and BF but I know I can't go 8 hours without pumping or feeding. I don't need enough to feed him for the next day since I also FF, just enough to keep my supply up and not get too full. So my question is, how long are you at work and how many times do you pump?

And when should I mention that I will need to pump? During the interview, after I get offered the job or some other time?

uluvfranke

I wouldnt mention it until you get the job. Most places usually allow a quick break here and there. I am sure as long as  you didnt take forever they wouldnt have a problem

katlor9

i plan on pumping 2 times during my shift at work. i'm already dreading going back, so it will be nice to have at least 2 breaks during the day.

Carilyn

I work 12 hr shifts.  I will pump at least three times a night (maybe 4) depending on my supply.  I'm lucky that I work in a NICU, which is very pro bfing, so a very supportive environment for bfing nurses.  I wouldn't mention it until you are offered the job.  Legally they have to provide you time (though not paid) and a place to pump.  If you're not EBF, I would think you could pump/bfeed before work, pump mid shift (lunch break?), then again when you get home and get away with one session while at work.  Or pump 2hrs in and then again at 6hrs in. 

tracey4228

**puts on HR Director hat**

There was a clause in the PPACA (aka health care reform) that requires employers to allow "reasonable time" for a nursing mother to express milk for the first year after birth. Additionally, they have to provide a private space for the purpose of pumping. This could be a room or space used for other purposes as well.

Typically, the employer will -and can - require the nursing mother to use their regular breaks to pump. They can require the nursing mother to clock out if the break extends beyond that of the length otherwise provided. 

In other words, there is no need to mention the pumping as there will be an opportunity to express anyway. 

**takes off HR Director hat**

 

JDO

I pump twice in a 7.5 hour shift, about 10 minutes per session. There have been days I've only had time to pump once, it hurts but it's manageable. I wouldn't mention it until after you've been offered the job.