Navigating life as a working mom who breastfeeds is a challenge that many of us face. Balancing a career while caring for a newborn is no easy feat, especially when you’re trying to adhere to the advice that “breast is best.” We live in a world where we’re told to be empowered and self-sufficient—juggling jobs, relationships, and motherhood. Yet, when it comes to breastfeeding, the reality can be daunting, particularly when you have to return to work within a few short weeks.
As a new mom, I found myself asking, “How can I possibly breastfeed my baby when I’m away for 8 to 12 hours a day?” The pressure to bond with my little one while managing my recovery and establishing a breastfeeding routine felt overwhelming. Unfortunately, instead of receiving the support we truly need—like a more realistic maternity leave policy—the system merely granted us the “Right to Pump.” Thanks, but that hardly addresses the complexities we face.
When I left my 8-week-old baby in someone else’s care, a wave of dread washed over me. It’s that gut-wrenching feeling you get when something just doesn’t feel right. Day after day, my heart ached for my child, and I was constantly reminded that our time together was slipping away. Despite this, I returned to work because I was the primary breadwinner, and our family’s survival depended on my income. But, I was also my baby’s source of nourishment.
So to all the working and pumping moms out there: I see you. I understand how you use your breaks to pump, sometimes even sneaking in bites of food while you do it. I know the anxiety that comes with announcing, “I need to pump now,” and worrying about how your coworkers will respond. You find yourself in a cramped room that barely meets legal requirements, hanging a “Do Not Enter” sign, only to have someone barge in anyway. Or you might resort to pumping at your desk, hoping no one notices.
I know the struggle of trying to produce enough milk for your baby, often feeling like you’re falling short. These pumping breaks aren’t paid, and sometimes you have to clock out, extending an already long day. You might overhear coworkers’ comments about your pumping routine, making you feel even more self-conscious. The guilt of wanting to do what’s best for your baby while also wanting to fit in with your colleagues is real.
You may find solace in those brief moments when you look at videos of your baby while pumping. Those little giggles and breaths keep you going, even though you might be exhausted. You know that a successful pumping session deserves a high five, and you cherish the camaraderie with fellow pumping coworkers who understand your plight.
Yet, when you get home, the last thing you want to do is pump again. You crave that connection with your baby—holding them close, feeling their warmth, and soaking in those precious moments. While you’re trying to juggle work, household responsibilities, and motherhood, it’s easy to feel like you’re at the end of your rope.
The question remains: how do we manage to have fulfilling careers while ensuring our babies get the nourishment they need? Unfortunately, our needs have largely gone unheard. We’ve been given a pump and a designated room, but little else in the way of support.
Isn’t it ironic that in many states, it’s illegal to separate puppies from their mothers until they’re weaned at eight weeks? Yet, there’s no such protection for human mothers and their infants. Until we see real change—like extended and paid maternity leave—let’s keep pushing for what’s right.
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In summary, the life of a working breastfeeding mom is filled with challenges, guilt, and the constant balancing act between work and motherhood. It’s time for society to recognize our struggles and advocate for better policies that support both mothers and their babies. Until then, we continue to fight the good fight, one pump session at a time.