Introduction to Returning to Work Breastfeeding Rights
As a breastfeeding mum in the UK, you have the right to continue breastfeeding when returning to work, as outlined in the NHS's Start4Life guidelines, which highlight the numerous benefits of breastfeeding for both mum and baby, including a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as stated in the NICE guidelines CG62. In this article, we will guide you through the process of returning to work while breastfeeding, including your rights and how to express and store milk, ensuring you can confidently continue to breastfeed your baby while working.
Understanding Your Rights as a Breastfeeding Mum
The NCT states that employers have a duty to provide a safe and healthy work environment, which includes supporting breastfeeding mums, as per the Health and Safety Executive guidelines. You have the right to request a private and comfortable space to express milk, as well as storage facilities for your expressed milk, in accordance with the UK Government's guidance on working when pregnant or breastfeeding. For example, a London-based employer could provide a dedicated breastfeeding room, complete with a lock, comfortable seating, and a fridge for storing expressed milk.
Preparing for Returning to Work
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Returning to Work
- Discuss your breastfeeding plans with your employer at least 6-8 weeks before returning to work, as recommended by the Acas guidelines, to ensure a smooth transition and to address any concerns or questions you may have.
- Identify a private and comfortable space to express milk, which could be a dedicated breastfeeding room or a quiet, secluded area, such as a vacant office or meeting room.
- Invest in a good quality breast pump, such as the Wearable Breast Pump (Double), priced at £85.90, which is a hospital-grade, hands-free wearable pump under 35 dB, ideal for discreet and convenient pumping in a busy office environment, such as those found in London's financial district.
For more information on choosing the best wearable breast pump, read our Best Wearable Breast Pump UK: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide, which includes reviews and comparisons of popular breast pumps, including those available on the NHS.
Expressing and Storing Milk at Work
How to Express and Store Milk at Work
According to Tommy's, it's essential to express milk regularly to maintain supply and prevent engorgement, which can be painful and uncomfortable. You can use a breast pump, such as TheRelievoo Wearable Pump, to express milk discreetly and conveniently, even in a busy office environment.
I recall working with a mum who was returning to her job at a London hospital, where she was able to express milk in a dedicated breastfeeding room, complete with a fridge and comfortable seating. She found it helpful to express milk during her breaks, storing it in labelled containers in the fridge, and was able to maintain a good supply for her baby, who was being cared for by a childcare provider in a nearby nursery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Expressing and Storing Milk
- Not expressing milk regularly enough, which can lead to engorgement and discomfort, as highlighted in the NHS guidelines on breastfeeding.
- Not storing expressed milk properly, which can lead to spoilage and waste, as outlined in the Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative guidelines.
- Not labeling and dating expressed milk, which can lead to confusion and safety issues, as stated in the Food Standards Agency guidelines on food safety.
Returning to Work Breastfeeding UK Laws and Guidelines
Understanding UK Laws and Guidelines
The NICE guidelines state that employers should provide support and facilities for breastfeeding mums, including a private and comfortable space to express milk, as per the Equality Act 2010. You can also find more information on A Step-by-Step Guide to Pumping at Work UK Law, which outlines the legal rights and responsibilities of breastfeeding mums in the UK workplace.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, returning to work while breastfeeding requires planning and preparation, but with the right support and resources, you can confidently continue to breastfeed your baby. By understanding your rights, preparing for returning to work, and expressing and storing milk correctly, you can maintain a good supply and enjoy the many benefits of breastfeeding, as highlighted in the NHS guidelines on breastfeeding. For more information on breastfeeding and returning to work, visit the La Leche League GB website, which provides a wealth of resources and support for breastfeeding mums in the UK.
Get the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump for convenient and discreet pumping, with free Royal Mail tracked delivery, 30-day money-back guarantee, and lifetime warranty, making it an ideal choice for breastfeeding mums returning to work in London and across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are my rights as a breastfeeding mum at work?
A: You have the right to request a private and comfortable space to express milk, as well as storage facilities for your expressed milk, in accordance with the UK Government's guidance on working when pregnant or breastfeeding.
Q: How often should I express milk at work?
A: You should express milk regularly, ideally every 3-4 hours, to maintain supply and prevent engorgement, as recommended by the NHS guidelines on breastfeeding.
Q: Can I store expressed milk in the office fridge?
A: Yes, you can store expressed milk in the office fridge, but make sure to label and date it properly, and follow the guidelines outlined in the Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative guidelines on storing expressed breastmilk.
Q: What is the best breast pump for expressing milk at work?
A: A good quality, portable, and discreet breast pump, such as the Wearable Breast Pump (Double), is ideal for expressing milk at work, and can be used in a variety of settings, including offices, hospitals, and other workplaces across London and the UK.
Q: How long can I store expressed milk?
A: Expressed milk can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, and in the freezer for up to 6 months, as outlined in the NHS guidelines on breastfeeding.
Q: Can I take breaks to express milk at work?
A: Yes, you can take breaks to express milk at work, and your employer should provide a private and comfortable space for you to do so, in accordance with the UK Government's guidance on working when pregnant or breastfeeding, and the Acas guidelines on flexible working.
Written by Olivia Bennett, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (London, UK)
Olivia is an IBCLC and mum of two based in London. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ British families with breastfeeding, expressing and the back-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo UK guides in-house with the product team. She has been quoted in Mother and Baby and Cosmopolitan UK.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Hannah Whitfield, MBBS MRCGP (London)
