Introduction to Pumping at Work
In my Dublin clinic, I've seen many mums struggle with finding a suitable place to pump at work. As an IBCLC, I'm here to help you navigate this challenge and provide you with a step-by-step guide on where to pump at work. According to the HSE — Breastfeeding guidelines, expressing breastmilk is essential for maintaining milk supply and providing nutrition for your baby. You can contact the HSE's National Breastfeeding Support Line at 1800 22 44 66 for more information and support.
What to Bring to Pump at Work
Before we dive into where to pump, let's discuss what to bring to pump at work. You'll need a good quality breast pump, such as the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump (€109.90, was €219.90), which is a hospital-grade, hands-free wearable pump under 35 dB. Don't forget to pack storage bags, labels, and a cooler bag to store your expressed milk. I recommend checking out the cuidiú website for more tips on expressing and storing breastmilk.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Where to Pump at Work
- Check your company's breastfeeding policy: Many companies have a breastfeeding policy in place, which outlines the facilities and support available for breastfeeding mums. You can contact your HR department or check your company's intranet for more information.
- Identify a suitable location: Look for a private room or area where you can pump without distractions or interruptions. This could be a designated breastfeeding room, a quiet office, or even a outdoor space like St. Stephen's Green in Dublin. If you're based in Limerick, you could try pumping at the Limerick City Council parks.
- Consider the logistics: Think about how you'll store your expressed milk, how often you'll need to pump, and how you'll clean and sterilize your pump parts. You can use a Medela cooler bag to store your milk and keep it cool for up to 12 hours.
Where to Wash Pump Parts at Work
According to cuidiú, it's essential to wash your hands before handling your breast pump or expressed milk. You should also wash your pump parts with soap and water after each use and sterilize them regularly. You can use a Tommee Tippee sterilizer to keep your pump parts clean and hygienic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I recall working with a mum who returned to her job at a busy Dublin office without checking the company's breastfeeding policy. She was shocked to find that there was no designated breastfeeding room, and she had to pump in a crowded staff room. The sound of the coffee machine and the smell of freshly brewed coffee made it difficult for her to relax and express milk. She ended up feeling stressed and anxious, and her milk supply suffered as a result. Don't make the same mistake – be prepared and plan ahead.
Pump Limerick and Other Locations
If you're based in Limerick or other locations around Ireland, you may be wondering where to buy a pump or find a suitable pumping location. You can find a range of breast pumps, including the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump, at our online store or in local baby stores like Mothercare in Dublin or Toys 4 Kids in Limerick.
What is a Pump and Tone Class?
A pump and tone class is a fitness class designed for new mums, which combines pumping with exercise to help tone the body. These classes are a great way to meet other mums and get support while exercising and pumping. You can find more information about pump and tone classes on websites like La Leche League of Ireland or by contacting your local cuidiú group.
How to Get a Pump for a Night Out
If you're planning a night out and need to express milk, consider using a portable breast pump like the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump. This pump is discreet, quiet, and easy to use, making it perfect for expressing milk on-the-go. You can also use a Medela breast milk storage bag to store your expressed milk and keep it cool.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Returning to work after maternity leave can be challenging, but with the right support and equipment, you can continue to breastfeed and express milk with confidence. Remember to check out our range of breast pumps, including the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump, and take advantage of our free An Post tracked delivery across Ireland, 30-day money-back guarantee, and lifetime warranty. For more information on breastfeeding and pumping, check out our blog posts like A Cheaper Alternative to Elvie: TheRelievoo Wearable Breast Pump and Exclusive Pumping: A Realistic Schedule for the First 3 Months. You can also contact the cuidiú helpline at 01 814 1962 for breastfeeding support and advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What do I need to pump at work?
A: You'll need a good quality breast pump, storage bags, labels, and a cooler bag to store your expressed milk.
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Q: What to bring to pump at work?
A: Bring your breast pump, storage bags, labels, and a cooler bag to store your expressed milk.
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Q: What to do with pump parts at work?
A: Wash your pump parts with soap and water after each use and sterilize them regularly.
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Q: What is a pump and tone class?
A: A pump and tone class is a fitness class designed for new mums, which combines pumping with exercise to help tone the body.
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Q: How to get a pump for a night out?
A: Consider using a portable breast pump like the TheRelievoo Wearable Pump.
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Q: How often to pump at work?
A: The frequency of pumping at work will depend on your individual needs and milk supply. Generally, it's recommended to pump every 3-4 hours. You can contact the HSE's National Breastfeeding Support Line at 1800 22 44 66 for more information and support.
Written by Aoife Byrne, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (Dublin, Ireland)
Aoife is an IBCLC and mum of two based in Dublin. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ Irish families with breastfeeding, expressing and the return-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo Ireland guides in-house with the product team. She is a member of the Association of Lactation Consultants in Ireland (ALCI) and volunteers with cuidiú.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Niamh O'Sullivan, MB BCh BAO, MICGP (Dublin)
