The Follow-Up: Making Pumping Work at Work

Returning to work while breastfeeding? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own either.

In this episode, we break down the essentials of pumping and transitioning back to work with your feeding goals intact. Whether you're just starting to think about pumping or already mapping out a return-to-work plan, this episode covers what you need to know to make it work at work—with less stress and more support.

We discuss:

• 🍼 Your legal rights to pump at work (hint: it’s not an “accommodation”)

• 🧾 What to talk to your employer and HR about before returning

• 👜 A practical packing + pumping checklist for the workday

• 🕒 How much time to block off (spoiler: 30-minute breaks are ideal!)

• 🧊 Storage, cleaning, and coolers—figuring out logistics for any job site

• 💡 When and how to start pumping before you return to work

• 💞 Tips for building a freezer stash without spiraling into oversupply

• 🧠 Encouragement for the emotional side—because this transition is a lot

Most importantly? We bust the myth that it’s “all or nothing.” If you need to supplement with formula, that’s okay—and you can absolutely still nurse at home and pump what you can. Flexibility is not failure.

Whether you're planning ahead or feeling overwhelmed, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and equipped for the next step in your breastfeeding journey.

🎧 Tune in and share with another working parent who needs this pep talk!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices