Breastfeeding When You Return to Work or School

Going back to work or school doesn't mean you have to stop breastfeeding. But it is a big transition. The good news: You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Here are some ways to prepare.

Before You Go Back

Make sure you have the supplies you need:

• Electric breast pump (talk to WIC staff if you need one)
• Milk storage bags
• Cooler with reusable ice packs

Build up a milk stash. Start by pumping and freezing milk a few weeks before you return. Label each bag or bottle with your baby’s name and date.

Help your baby adjust. A few weeks before you return, have your partner, family member, or friend give your baby a bottle. This helps them get used to bottle feeding.

Practice your routine. Try your new feeding and pumping schedule a few days before you start. This helps you work out any issues.

Start mid-week. If possible, return on a Wednesday or Thursday. This gives you and your baby time to adjust before a full week.

Talk to Your Supervisor or Teacher

You'll need to pump every 2-4 hours to keep your milk supply steady. Set up a time to talk with your supervisor or teacher about what you'll need:

• A private place to pump that is not a bathroom
• How to fit pumping breaks into your schedule
• Where to store your milk during the day (refrigerator or cooler with ice)

Check out the Office of Women’s Health’s site to learn how to make a lactation room at work or school.

Talk to Your Childcare Provider

Your childcare provider is an important part of your breastfeeding plan. Ask if you can visit during the day to feed your baby. If you are unable to, share the following with your childcare provider:

• Your work or school schedule
• Your baby's feeding schedule
• How to safely store, warm, and feed your breast milk

Tips for Pumping at Work or School

• You may find it easier to stick to a routine. Pump the same number of times you would normally feed your baby during the day.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Wear loose clothing for easy access.
• Look at photos or videos of your baby while pumping to help the milk flow.
• Pump both breasts at the same time.
• Gently massage your breasts while pumping.

More Resources

You’re not alone

WIC staff are here to help you succeed with breastfeeding while working or going to school. Let us know if you have any questions.

You’re protected by Nevada Law

Certain employers are required to provide reasonable break times and a place for an employee to express breast milk per NRS 608.0193 and NRS 281.755.

Title IX protects people from discrimination based on sex in schools or programs that get federal money. This includes public schools, colleges, and education agencies. You can file a complaint with your school’s Title IX office, or fill out their form online. You can also get support from Pregnant@Work. This organization provides free information about your legal rights if you’re facing challenges receiving breastfeeding accommodations at work. Services are available in English, Spanish, and other languages.

If you want more information about state and federal laws that protect pregnant and breastfeeding people, visit our website.