Going back to work..pumping?

Question

Hello. My maternity leave is quickly coming to an end. I go back early September. I'm an exclusive pumper. I've been pumping 4 times a day. When I go back to work ill be unable to pump at work. I work at a small extremely busy dental office. I'll only be able to pump twice a day in the morning and at night. Is this enough to keep up my supply? I do supplement with formula when needed. Thanks!

Answer

By law, they have to let you pump at work.

Answer

I think there is a law in my state (California) that pretty much states that they HAVE to give you a reasonable amount of time throughout your shift schedule to be able to pump.

Answer

Please research your rights as a breastfeeding/ pumping mother. Kelly mom and le leche league have some great information and sources. I work at a vet office where it gets crazy busy. Busy to the point all hands on deck. We have a doctor and a technician that are currently pumping at work. Our manager had to assure they had appropriate time (approx 40mins to an 1hr to pump and let them pump every 3hrs) and a quite place to pump (a closed office). You also have the right to pump at work till your child is a year old. Also the manager informed everyone ( all employees) it is against the law to discriminate against a breastfeeding mother or a pumping mother. We (all employees) also had to sign a waiver. That we (employees) understood and if someone was to discriminate against the pumping mom, that person would get written up. I had asked the doctor and our manager what would be considered an appropriate place.  Basically somewhere clean, sanitary and comfortable. Also the manager was not allowed to tell the pumping mom to pump in a car, bathroom or on the floor. If you employer denies you your rights and your supply diminishes. I would hold them personally responsible. To me that would be considered an assault to your baby. I'm sorry if I come off defensive and aggressive but I really wish that when you return back to work it is a wonderful and seamless experience. Pumping isn't easy and the stress of work can be rough too. So having a supportive team can make a difference. Definitely contact your employer and Human Resources and discuss a game plan before you return back to work. Also to ensure all employees/coworkers understand your rights.

Answer

Pumping only twice a day will definitely hurt your supply. You're telling your body you don't need as much milk anymore and it will decrease production. 
If you want to maintain your supply to continue giving breast milk, I would at least pump right before you leave the house, on your lunch break, and as soon as you get home. Personally I'd throw in a pumping session as soon as you wake and right before sleeping as well. If you're only pumping 4 times a day currently, it sounds like you're already skipping pumping overnight which is fine if your body and milk has adjusted to that already. 
I pump on my lunch break at work too and use a hands free pumping bra, double electric pump, and I eat at the same time. Sometimes my lunch break stretches to 40 minutes instead of 30 (because of set up and clean up) but no one minds the extra 10 mins.

Answer

Yes I know. She said I can pump on lunch, which would take up my whole time to eat. I could make it work if needed.

Going back to work..pumping?

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