Exploring your options can make returning to work while breastfeeding smoother and help you find a new balance.
This page explores options on how you can combine breastfeeding and work. It includes information about lactation breaks and finding what works best for you.
There are many ways to balance breastfeeding and work. You might express milk, breastfeed during your breaks or work from home on some days. What you choose will depend on your job and your childcare arrangements. Remember, what works for one mum may not work for another, it’s important to choose what feels right for you.
What is a lactation break?
A lactation break is time during the workday for a mother to breastfeed her baby or express milk. Workplace laws support breastfeeding mothers by allowing time and space for expressing milk and taking breastfeeding breaks.
Breastfeeding and work can both happen at the same time
Many mothers return to work and continue breastfeeding. It is possible to balance work and home life. There is no one “right” way to do this. Every family is different. Your feeding plan can change over time.
You might choose to:
- Breastfeed when you are with your baby and express at work
- Have your baby brought to you during breaks, or visit your baby during breaks
- Work from home on some days if this is possible
The best choice is the one that works for you and your baby.
Options for breastfeeding and expressing while working
You’ll need a private room with:
- a comfortable chair
- adequate lactation break time
- access to a refrigerator to safely store expressed breastmilk
storage or designated space to keep your electric breast pump or manual breast pump - a cooler bag with ice bricks to safely transport your milk home
You may be able to have your baby brought to you at work to breastfeed. Discuss options with your employer:
- breastfeeding during break
- having flexible work hour and breaks.
Some mums have access to childcare services located onsite or nearby their workplace. Instead of expressing during breaks, lactation breaks can be used to visit your baby and breastfeed.
Tips to consider for expressing at work
It can help to plan ahead so expressing at work feels easier and more comfortable.
- Find a safe place to store your breast pump and equipment at work.
- Use a good cooler bag with ice bricks to transport milk home.
- Wear comfortable work clothes if you are expressing at work.
It may feel unfamiliar at first, and that’s ok. Adjusting to a new routine can take time.
Find out more about breastfeeding and working
Evidence-led info and practical tips from our Breastfeeding Information Series
Breastfeeding: women and work
Discover Breastfeeding Friendly Workplaces accreditation
Create a workplace where breastfeeding employees feel supported. Learn how to become a accredited as Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace with ABA.
