If you are nursing and working at the same time, you are going to need a breast pump. There are a few choices when looking at the type of pump to get.

• Manual Pump
• Electric Portable Pump
• Double Electric Pump with carrying case
• Hospital rented industrial double pump

If you are planning to nurse for your baby’s first year while working, or if you are planning on having more children some day, your best bet is to go ahead and purchase a Double Electric Pump with carrying case. These pumps are fast; usually pumping two bottles of milk in 10-15 minutes.

Before you go back to work, be sure there is an area where you will be able to pump. Your pump may be somewhat noisy, so be sure you can get some privacy. Some moms are able to pump in a private office, but we’ve heard some stories of moms pumping in a bathroom stall. Talk to your supervisor to see if they can do better than banishing you to the bathroom.

Some moms have trouble with let-down when pumping. To help stimulate milk production, bring a picture of your baby and a piece of her clothing or blanket that smells like her. This will help stimulate your breasts to let-down.

It’s hard to go back to work and leave your baby; as it is hard to remember to keep up your pumping. When pumping is an easy, somewhat enjoyable experience, you are more likely to continue breastfeeding longer, which is good for your baby. The manual pumps can be extremely frustrating for at-work use, and will probably just make you want to stop pumping all together. Spend a little extra money on the good pump. You’ll thank us later!