Breastfeeding is often described as natural, beautiful, and the best thing for your baby—and it absolutely can be. But for many modern women, balancing breastfeeding with work and life’s demands isn’t always as picture-perfect as it’s made out to be. If you’re navigating breastfeeding while juggling a career, here’s an honest look at what works, what might be challenging, and how to find what works best for you.
What Works: Planning Ahead and Communicating Needs
Building a Milk Stash Before Returning to Work
If you plan to pump at work, starting a milk stash before you go back can ease some of the pressure. Pump a little extra during morning feeds (when supply is typically highest) to freeze for later use.
Finding a Pumping Routine That Fits Your Schedule
Many workplaces now have designated lactation spaces (yay for progress!), but it’s important to work out a realistic pumping schedule. Ideally, you’ll want to pump every 2-3 hours to mimic your baby’s feeding times.
Communicating with Your Employer
Be upfront about your pumping needs before returning to work. Many employers are required to provide a private space and time for pumping—not a bathroom stall! The more you advocate for yourself, the easier it will be to settle into a routine.
Supportive Gear to Make Life Easier
Hands-free pumping bras, portable breast pumps, and discreet storage bags can make pumping at work more manageable. Investing in these tools can save time and make you feel more confident.
What Doesn’t Work: Unrealistic Expectations
Trying to Do It All Without Support
Let’s face it: modern women wear many hats, and trying to breastfeed without a support system can be overwhelming. Whether it’s your partner, family, or a trusted caregiver, leaning on others can lighten the load.
Skipping Pumps or Feeds
Life gets busy, and it’s tempting to skip a pump session to squeeze in another task. Unfortunately, missing sessions too often can lead to engorgement, clogged ducts, or even a dip in supply. Consistency is key—though some days will be more challenging than others.
Feeling Guilty About Supplementing or Weaning
Sometimes, exclusive breastfeeding isn’t realistic while working, and that’s okay. Many women find a balance with supplementing formula, combo feeding, or transitioning to formula earlier than planned. What matters most is that your baby is fed, and you feel good about your choices.
What’s Possible: Creating Your Own Version of Success
Flexibility is Key
Every mom’s situation is different, and what works for one might not work for another. The beauty of breastfeeding today is that it doesn’t have to look one way. Whether you’re exclusively nursing, pumping, supplementing, or weaning earlier than planned, all paths are valid.
Setting Boundaries
Prioritize what’s most important for you and your baby while being realistic about what you can handle. If pumping during a busy day feels like too much, consider how supplementing or rearranging feeds might help ease the stress.
Celebrating Wins
Breastfeeding—even for a day—is an achievement. Instead of focusing on what didn’t go as planned, celebrate the moments that did. Every drop of breast milk is a gift to your baby, and every choice you make as a mom is rooted in love.
Real Talk for Working Moms
Breastfeeding while working isn’t easy, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Some days you’ll feel like you’ve nailed it; other days, it might feel like a struggle. The most important thing to remember is that your baby loves and needs you—whether they’re fed from the breast, a pump, or a bottle.
If breastfeeding works for you while working, fantastic! If it doesn’t, that’s okay too. Modern motherhood is about finding what works for your family, not meeting everyone else’s expectations. You’re doing the best you can—never forget that!