Pumping at Work: A Step-by-Step Guide for Returning to Work While Breastfeeding
- Ashleigh Richmond
- Jun 10
- 3 min read
Returning to work after having a baby can bring a mix of emotions. You may be excited to reconnect with colleagues and routines while also feeling nervous about being away from your baby and maintaining your milk supply.
The good news is that with some planning and realistic expectations, many parents successfully continue breastfeeding and pumping after returning to work. This guide will walk you through the basics and help you feel more prepared for the transition.
Before You Return to Work
We suggest starting to pump and bottle feed regularly starting before 6 weeks. A few weeks before you return to work ensure that your pump is in good working order. Some of the parts may need replacement. Make sure your flanges fit properly, familiarize yourself with the pump settings, and determine how long it typically takes you to express milk.
You may also want to:
Talk with your employer about pumping accommodations.
Identify where you will pump during the workday.
Practice bottle feeding if your baby will be receiving bottles while you are away.
Create a plan for milk storage and transportation.
How Often Should You Pump at Work?
A general guideline is to pump approximately as often as your baby would normally feed.
For many parents working an 8-hour shift, this may look like:
Nurse before leaving for work
Pump mid-morning
Pump around lunchtime
Pump mid-afternoon
Nurse when reunited with baby
Every parent and baby are different. Some may need more frequent pumping sessions, while others can comfortably go longer between sessions.
Protecting Your Milk Supply
Returning to work often means juggling meetings, deadlines, commuting, and childcare responsibilities. During this transition, it can be easy to accidentally skip pumping sessions or delay meals.
To support milk production:
Pump consistently.
Stay hydrated.
Eat regular meals and snacks.
Replace pump parts as recommended.
Avoid routinely skipping pumping sessions.
Continue nursing when together if that aligns with your feeding goals.
Remember that milk supply is influenced by many factors, including milk removal, sleep, stress, hormones, nutrition, and overall health.
What If My Pump Output Changes?
Many parents notice fluctuations in pump output after returning to work. This does not automatically mean your milk supply is dropping.
Pump output can be affected by:
Stress
Fatigue
Hydration
Pump settings
Flange fit
Time of day
Menstrual cycle changes
If you are concerned about supply, working with an IBCLC can help identify what may be contributing and create a plan tailored to your situation.
Pump Room Checklist
Check out our pump room checklist blog. Keep this checklist handy to make your pumping sessions easier and less stressful.
Give Yourself Grace
The transition back to work is a major adjustment for both parents and babies. Some days will go exactly as planned, and some days will not.
Remember that successful breastfeeding does not require perfection. Whether you exclusively breastfeed, pump, supplement, or use a combination approach, your feeding journey is valid.
If you need support creating a pumping plan, troubleshooting supply concerns, estimating bottle needs, or preparing for your return to work, our team is here to help. You do not have to navigate this transition alone.
Need more help? Book a visit with Wisco Lactation! We offer home & office visits in Southern Wisconsin and NE Illinois. Including Milwaukee, Madison, Kenosha and the surrounding areas. Virtual visits offered worldwide!
