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BF at work, without "scheduled break times"

WithaMicrophoneWithaMicrophone
in Breastfeeding

Hello!

BF is something that I am determined to do, but I am worried about when it comes time to go back to work.  I work in a garage with all men, so I am picturing myself having to pump in the customer bathroom,  asking someone to stop what their doing to cover the phones, and everyone shouting questions at me thru the thin door...we dont really have "scheduled breaks", or anywhere nice and private to spend 20 minutes. It sounds like a giant hurdle, and I already feel stressed about it.  Anyone have suggestions for pumping in a less then desirable work situation? 

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Re: BF at work, without "scheduled break times"

  • NHMountainBrideNHMountainBride
    I am the director of a busy hospital unit, and I'm just beginning to figure out how to pump 2-3 times a day.  I share an office with three other people, so I use a remote basement bathroom for privacy.  I get to work much earlier than I need to be there so I can pump in the morning.  I pump again at lunch, and once more as the day is winding down (4:00ish).  I spend about 9 - 10 hours per day in the building so I don't feel like I'm "using" company time to pump.  Sometimes it's really challenging to get away, so my times aren't always the same, but so far, so good!  GL!
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  • EmuJaneEmuJane

    No idea, but I commiserate with you. There are days at my job that I'm so busy I literally do not have a chance to go pee, I have no idea how I'm going to fit in pumping.

    I know I can't possibly be the first pharmacist who has wanted to breastfeed so I'm going to bring it up with my supervisor this week, but it doesn't sound like that's an option for you.

    Maybe you can escape to your car?

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  • WithaMicrophoneWithaMicrophone
    Thanks for the responses, it makes me keep thinking that there just has to be a way, I cant be the first person to have lack of privacy at a high demand job. 
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  • thefarmchickthefarmchick member

    I don't know if this will help but try making a mental note throughout your work day when it seems slow.   Like,  afternoons around 3 are always a "bit" slower...Maybe you can start to see a pattern and choose that to go pump.

    Another thing that might help is get a work buddy. You must cover for someone else while they get a bathroom break.  Give them a heads up that you need so many times a day to go pump and that they will be around what time (like 3 in the afternnon).  Set your alarm on your phone when it's getting close to time for you to pump start arranging for someone to cover(that way you get a few minutes to line everything up before your VERY uncomfortable)

     I don't work in an office but when we are harvesting life gets kind of crazy. I set the alarm on my phone and let the combine driver know I'm taking a 20 minute break to "make food for the baby"

    Also, I recommend a car plug for you pump and pumping in the car if its not too inconvient to get to.

    Good Luck!

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  • JLS0320JLS0320 member
    I would let your boss know about your need to pump and make sure he understands that you need a short break every 3 hrs. I work on the road (no office) and I pump in my car, it works, I throw on a nursing cover, relax and listen to the radio. That may be an option for you!
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  • TXSweetheartTXSweetheart
    I have a friend who would pump in her car using a nursing cover.  It was the only private place she could be alone without interuption, and she loved it.  She said she'd look at pictures and videos of her baby on her phone and play some music and just relax.  Also, by law your job has to give you time to pump and a clean place to do it in.  I realize the reality of that is a joke...many places will just find a reason to fire you before they comply, but definitely don't feel guilty about taking the time you need to pump.  You baby's more important that your co-workers and there's really very little that is sooooo urgent it can't wait 20 minutes.   
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  • PrintergirlPrintergirl

    I work in a print shop with the majority of my coworkers being males in their 50-60s. Sort of strange for everyone to get used to but we are making it work. I pump in our computer server room - it locks. :)

    My days are never the same but I did put 'breaks' on my calendar so meetings didn't get scheduled back to back like they had for a while. Usually I don't go at a set time but this way people think before scheduling.  I've had a couple of times where I was heading back to pump and a customer walked in needing help. Love that!

    Talk to your boss with a suggested area. I had an idea of where I was going to pump and my boss came up with a better one. You never know!

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