Breastfeeding and not being able to pump at work?

sdarling14@hotmail.com · February 2013

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 I am undecided if I will be breastfeeding or using formula. I will be going back to work at 6 weeks postpartum and pumping at work is not an option due to my work environment. Is it possible to not pump during the day? Also, if I am to breastfeed how soon can I introduce a bottle, Dad wants to be able to participate in feedings as well. Can the bottle be introduced right away?This is our first baby and we are due in June.

Any advice will be appreciated!

NinaMarie1 · February 2013

Well... I don't think you will be able to exclusively BF after going back to work if you don't plan to pump during the day. I think it's against the law for a workplace not to allow a BFing mother a time/space to pump. If its something you really want to do, talk to someone about it. I had a friend who would pump driving on the way to work, pump during her lunch break, and pump driving home. She made it work for her! Your supply would be hurt pretty badly if you didn't pump during the day.

Every baby is different when it comes to the ability to go from breast, to bottle, and back to breast. My LO was introduced a bottle on Day 5 because I was struggling w/ latching and she used only a bottle for Day 6,7,8, and 9 until I had an appointment with a LC who got us back on track to BFing. This is not always the story with some babies. Once they are breastfeed for a duration of time, they struggle to get the hang of a bottle. But its' all trial and error. You'll find something that works for you.

mley1216 · February 2013

With my first son, I breastfed when I was home and didn't pump at work. There were times when I felt like I was going to burst but eventually was able to work it out. My son was on formula at daycare though.

abbyful · February 2013

Where do you live and why is pumping not possible in your work environment? Some states have laws that say your employer must provide a non-bathroom room for you to pump. They may not give you extra time to pump, but OSHA says you have to get breaks, and you can pump on those break times.

I had 12 weeks off work, but we introduced a bottle at 4 weeks; I read that 4 weeks was a prime time for baby accepting new things.

JessieJH · February 2013

I think you should push for an option that allows you to pump. Worst case scenario is pumping in the handicap stall in the bathroom. Pumping in your car with a car adapter is a very good option- calm space with radio- it's relaxing.

Why can you not pump?

beany02 · February 2013

there is a federal law that states you must be allowed to pump as much as necessary. i would think if you cant pump during the day, it will affect your supply. https://www.dol.gov/whd/nursingmothers/ here is the info on the law

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