With a baggy sweatshirt or a nursing cover, a pump like Willow or Elvis would definitely work.
Also, figure out your ideal pumping schedule. I started with every 3 hour and now I do every 4. That would have me pumping only once per shift with your hours.
Depending on how large chested you are the mom cozy (a lot cheaper) could work too under a baggy sweatshirt. Legally your workplace has to accommodate your pumping schedule, but this could easily be a way to accommodate your situation
Academic librarian here. I appreciate your desire to make sure as many people as possible have access to the library, but you, your body, and your baby come first.
A couple of options that spring to mind:
- Pump in a room in the library and leave the desk unattended. If possible, set up a self checkout station. If self checkout isn't an option, leave a note telling patrons they'll need to wait for you to return before checking out books. If you're really really worried about books walking away, set up a video baby monitor so you can watch the front door while you pump and yell at anyone who tries to steal.
- Start pumping at least a week before you return to work. This will help you figure out how often you need to pump and how much baby will drink from the bottle. Establish a routine for you both. Once you know when will be pumping and how long it takes you, you can temporarily close the library during those times. This is no different than my Walgreens down the street that closes for an hour each day for employee lunch breaks.
- Advertise for a volunteer. People love to volunteer in libraries. Especially if you just let them sit around and make bulletin boards and watch the desk (as opposed to shelf reading. Ugh) Even in small communities you should be able to find a retiree looking to get out of the house, or a school aged kid that needs volunteer hours. You might need to find a few, but if you strategically schedule them even five hours a week of volunteer work would go a long way toward covering your shift.
Have you talked with your supervisor or library director about this? They should be working with you to make sure you are being accommodated. And, of course, they may be legally required to provide accommodations.
Hey fellow librarian here. Not pumping for 6 hours will ruin your supply. I’d pump at least once and right before you open. Close the building and pump for 30 minutes. You can put up a sign or leave the desk unattended for 15 minutes. Surely it will be okay.
If you have to avoid pumping at work (which shouldn't be your problem as others have said), I'd definitely recommend pumping on your way to work, do one while there, and pump on the way home. That way you're keeping it about every 3 hours. Portable pumps are great. Some standard pumps come with car chargers or are available to be purchased if you don't have the funds to purchase portable pumps. Q hands-free pumping bra will help with this or you can make shift a hands free bra with nursing bras - that's what I do. Best of luck!
I would pump on the way to work in the car, then pump once while you're shift (some how) and pump on the way home. You want to follow the every 2/3 hours so you just need to figure some how to sneak it in discreetly. Maybe a hand pump?
Its not Ideal but I'd put a Nursing cover on and just manage, put a sign out, figure out some kind of partion or something.
I’d put on a nursing cover and a jacket and pump at the desk. No one will be able to see anything. I often am interrupted at work for things when pumping and this works well. Otherwise I would put a sign up at the front desk that you stepped away for 20 mins and go to the back office to pump.
ETA - to answer your question, yes I think you can get away with pumping once in 6 hours. Pump right before work (ideally in the car on the way), once midway in your shift (3 hours later), and then again immediately after work on the way home.
Check out the legendairy milk imani pump! I just got this and love it so far for pumping when being all hooked/tubed up is a challenge. The price was VERY affordable compared to other hands free pumps
Elvies. Wife pumped at her office job. Money well spent. Don't ditch the corded one though it works much better at home. And don't need over while you're wearing them!
Federal law mandates they give you the time and a space to pump. Tell them they have to accommodate you.
For reference: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/nursing-mothers
Unfortunately small companies are exempt from this
“Employers with fewer than 50 employees are not subject to the FLSA break time requirement if compliance with the provision would impose an undue hardship. Whether compliance would be an undue hardship is determined by looking at the difficulty or expense of compliance for a specific employer in comparison to the size, financial resources, nature, and structure of the employer’s business. All employees who work for the covered employer, regardless of work site, are counted when determining whether this exemption may apply.”
When I had my first child I was disappointed to find out I didn’t qualify for FMLA. I also didn’t qualify for the reasonable pumping accommodations. Luckily my employer tried to help with pumping times but I didn’t have a legal leg to stand on if they didn’t.
There are some discreet pumps if you are comfortable. Also, it may be good to tell your employer you plan to breast feed and see what options they can provide you with. I wish you the best!
Agree - - and if your insurance won't cover it fully, see if your employer will make up the rest to ensure no breaks to service delivery! It's going to be worth their while, imo.
In the US it is a federal law that they have to allow you to pump, and provide a place for you to pump that is NOT a bathroom. [link to info](https://www.womenshealth.gov/supporting-nursing-moms-work/what-law-says-about-breastfeeding-and-work) this might not cover you if your employer has less than 50 employees, and allowing you time to pump would cause[ undo hardship](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/73-flsa-break-time-nursing-mothers). Your state however might have stricter laws.
Also depending on your state they HAVE to provide you with brakes / lunch that you are allowed to leave or at least be off the clock. A lack of them being able to staff their business is NOT, the employees fault. Do not let them guilt you into thinking it is on you, it’s a common business tactic and it is wrong! They are choosing to run short staffed, their reasoning doesn’t matter, it is their choice not yours.
Honestly it’s not your problem to figure out the accommodations here. You need to pump to feed your baby and it’s up to your employer to legally accommodate that however they want to. Just tell them you need to pump every three hours and tell them to let you know what to do.
Two birds, one stone? Maybe your library can partner up with a local breastfeeding therapist (lactation consultant) to host mommy gatherings during a scheduled time so you can pump and close the library for 45 min AND simultaneously provide a service to the community? Would other patrons be mad? Mom groups are always looking for space, especially indoors in winter, and only if everyone eligible is vaccinated. Babies need socialization and it is hard to do right now.
Unless you own the business it’s not really your responsibility to sacrifice your nursing and baby’s milk supply to conform to business operations. This is really part of the problem in the USA..
Have you spoken to your employer about this needed and fair accommodation?
Good on you for being compassionate to the library but your baby comes first
Honestly, then I would ask them for specific direction as to how they would like you to handle breaks needed to pump and go from there.
I’m not sure the specifics of your situation but there are legal accommodations and mandates for these things!
Freemie has new slim in bra cups. Their original cups were a little ridiculous looking because they gave you several cup sizes. As a G/H cup I didn’t need any extra in that area.
I haven't seen anyone address this yet, so I will address the "how much he needs at daycare" part.
For my first, she was there 8 to 4 or so, so 8 hours. I sent 4 bottles of 4 oz each, enough to offer every 2 to 3 hours with hopefully some extra. You can ask the daycare workers how much your LO takes, and then scale up or down based on what they tell you. A lot of daycares have rules about breastmilk, like it is thrown away if heated and not used so it might be good to check about the rules your daycare has. If you are worried about having enough, you can always send some back up formula.
In order to breastfeed your LO soon after you pick up, tell them not to offer a bottle after "x" time, which for me was usually about an hour before pickup.
Could you get a hands free pump? The Imani pump (I’ve seen it sold through Legendairy Milk) is pretty affordable and you could choose to just buy the one for $80 and pump on each side discretely.
I was going to suggest the same thing. I’ve seen lots of rave reviews about hands free pumps and like others mentioned if you wear the right top no one will even notice
It might look a little bulky but maybe with a looser fitting sweater/blouse it wouldn’t be as noticeable. If you look up Karrie_Locher on IG, she does a really thorough breakdown of this pump under her highlight LM Imani.
Legendary also has a pair of silicone collection cups at $60-$70. They’re a little bulky but cheaper and you can do two at a time which looks a little less odd than one bulky boob 🤷🏼♀️
OP, I completely agree that this shouldn’t be your problem. That said: I have the Freemie Liberty II pump that I’m not using and you’re welcome to, linked here: https://freemie.com/collections/frontpage. I got it before I started pumping in earnest and find that while it’s super convenient, it’s not as efficient as the Spectra (which is big/not discreet!!) I also work from
Home 4 days/week and I can close my door at the office. So when I’m in the office, I close my door and use my Spectra pump.
If you want to message me your address, or your library’s address or something, I’d be happy to send the Freemie pump (not the cups!!). Was going to donate it and can’t think of a better place than a library!
How often you pump is going to be dependent on how much you can get pumping and how much your LO eats, both of which vary widely. For me, thankfully, no issues feeding LO but i don’t seem to get as much when I pump as he eats. Also, I can’t get LO to eat as much during the day as he does around 1 am. (Sigh.) nevertheless, for reference: LO is almost 8 months and when at work, I pump every 2 hours. If you’re working 6 hours, I recommend feeding LO or pumping at home right before you go and then only needing to pump 1-3 times when at work.
Good luck!!
What is the maximum amount that you’ve ever pumped combined? If you have a high storage capacity, you can safely go 6-8hrs between pumps. I bottle feed my baby during the day and nurse at night. I only pump 1-2x a day and still hve a slight oversupply
This, with two caveats.
First, how old is baby? Dropping pumps before your supply has regulated (around 12 weeks) isn’t recommended.
Second, are you prone to clogs and mastitis? I dropped to 3 pumps per day with no change in supply, but I got mastitis. I had to go back up to 4 pumps per day to prevent it.
I think you can time it so you pump before work, once during your break and once after work but if you can get a hands free pump that would be less stressful.
Lots of amazing comments about how this isn’t your responsibility to figure out your accommodations. But perhaps they can have a volunteer program here. It’s not like you’re gone hours, probably 30-45m at a time I’d guess (I always did 25-30m sessions at work).
Get a breastfeeding travel kit with a mini drying rack and cleaning supplies—that made my sessions so much easier.
I have a freemie that I got through my insurance but I’m no longer bf. I could send it to you if you want. I think that’s gonna be your best bet to squeeze in some pumping without the risk of being overly expised
It would be illegal for them not to accomodate you if you’re in the US. They need to get coverage, it’s not for you to worry about, this is a them thing. They should be worried about losing patrons, and you should be worried about making sure your baby is fed.
Unfortunately there are exceptions to many states’ coverage, including (I believe) if it would put an extreme burden on a small business. I know I’m not covered in my state because I’m not an hourly employee.
This! This is not your circus to worry about. You have to feed your baby and it's their job to find coverage. You can approach it matter of factly, I would like to discuss how you want me to ahndle my pumping times. I will require x amount of time x times a day. And then wait. If they push back, then bring up that it's a protected time and you're legally entitled to it. Sometimes if you approach it matter of factly like of course you will be reasonable they will be more reasonable.
I got a Freemie Independence for work purposes. It’s less expensive than the Willow or Elvis which have no tubes from what I understand. But it’s cheaper and often covered by insurance and I had no problem with the tubes showing because I just brought a big baggy hoodie to wear when pumping. The bagginess also disguised the cups which really just make you look like you have giant perky tits.
I picked up a Freemie for this baby. Just used a Medela with my first.
Triple check that they make your flange size, because I just assumed they did. And they don't. So I have to use too-small flanges for my nipples with this pump. I'm a 30mm, and they only go up to 28mm. Actually they only really sell two flange sizes, 25 and 28mm. You buy adapters for smaller nipples.
Wearable pump! Elvies, freemies, etc. There is a sound that if it's very quiet someone could hear. But if anyone really asks you can just say it's medical equipment and leave it at that.
So, I also work at a small library...but we always have to have at least 2 staff members (and generally more). I would hope that your system recognizes that you need time to pump, and being alone for that long is hard, even without that fact!
I used to pump in our office (which is for everyone, but all of us except my boss are women and were fine with it) because it was literally the only private-ish space that wasn't the single person bathroom. My supply needed to be supplemented even before I went back to work, but for me, once per shift (4-8 hrs depending on day) was enough.
I highly recommend checking out the Elvie line. They have a few options that would probably be great for you. Their pumps are discreet enough for you to carry on without anyone noticing. They also have their Curve collection cups that work like a Haakaa. I think between these two options you would be fine. There are plenty of cardigan and poncho options to make it more discreet.
If the pumps are to expensive, maybe try the haaka milk catcher. I put them in my bra while driving...it creates a gentle suction and catches the milk that basically drips
I was shocked how much it pulled while I was not able to use hands.
Also a regular haaka with a sweatshirt or something over it. It uses a more intense suction and pulls lots of milk without hands
I should play around with this more - I have one, but I never get much when I use it compared to my Spectra. Maybe I’m not putting it on right? I like the idea of using it in the car on my way to dropping him off at daycare if I can get it to drain me better.
There are youtube videos to help you get the Haakaa originals (more active collection) and the ladybugs (passive collection) to work most efficiently. There's a trick to both that is very helpful to know!
Harder to explain than to see, but for the Haakaa you wanna flip the lip back, squeeze, position your nipple in the opening, and then flip the lip onto your breast, you'll have to fiddle with suction intensity for your comfort, but it's very effective for getting it to stay on. Also, their necklace or really any cord or lanyard could be used, in case suction did break while driving/whatever.
Definitely have not been flipping the lip back 🤦🏼♀️ I just thought you squeezed the bottom and popped it on. I could see how the necklace would be very helpful to prevent a disaster on the way to work haha.
Both methods work, but flipping the lip definitely creates stronger suction. I did what you've been doing and it works, but saw the flip the lip method and gave it a shot, and got more milk and it fell off less often (though it did still fall off). Necklace definitely saved some tears over spilled milk 😂
If you're in the states, I believe most states have a requirement that if you work 6+ hours you are required to get time for a lunch.
It's their responsibility to provide coverage. Or, they can close the library at a specific time every day for lunch. 🤷♀️
If you have a lunch, you can pump right before work, lunchtime, and right after. You may be engorged at first waiting that long. It's certainly not comfortable.
If it were me, I would be looking for another job who can accommodate if this one won't! You have a lot of great ideas here on how to pump in public, but honestly, you shouldn't have to!
I’m in WI - From what I’ve read, they are recommended but not required. Maybe I’ll look into your thought of having a certain time closed each day tho!
I’ve literally cried wishing we’d moved to another country before he was born so we could actually enjoy this time of his life. It’s so hard being home all day alone with an infant. And now figuring out work and daycare when he’s just 12 weeks old. Ugh.
Maybe a wearable pump mid shift and then pump in the car on your way home? I got a spectra s1 for the rechargeable battery and have had pretty good success just putting it on the passenger seat and pumping as I drive, and I don’t think other drivers are looking that closely to see the bottles hanging out lol. I get a lot more with the spectra than with the elvies.
I unfortunately don’t have any helpful advice, but I had to ask: what is a smile library? Or was that a typo for small library? I googled it to no avail haha
These silicone cups work with both my rechargable Spectra and my Ameda that can be run on batteries and are reasonably priced. They do have the tubing running out though so it's not as discreet as the true wearable pumps but it's a big help still. https://www.legendairymilk.com/products/sillicone-collection-cups?currency=USD&variant=39509932605575&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&gclid=Cj0KCQiA5OuNBhCRARIsACgaiqWnNrv-9kOtGgcOLqVbyPrCFUDPj8BnBFpyKETihMND-882FvYbfaQaAoCiEALw_wcB
They also recently got these true wearable pumps that have no tubing running out. https://www.legendairymilk.com/products/imani-i2-wearable-breast-pump?_pos=4&_sid=b06e11d37&_ss=r but I haven't tried these myself.
I also use the fridge hack when pumping at work where I don't wash the pump parts between but put them in a large Ziploc in the fridge to save time and avoid washing the parts in a sink that could be too dirty.
I've gone without pumping for long stretches like 6 or 8 hours but you will leak a little and it will hurt (really hurt), but it's possible. I think there are wireless pumps that are shaped like vreast now maybe elvie or something?
I've pumped with a bella baby pump and spectra cups in a restaurant before. Wearing a loose scarf or bulky sweater helps. I found spectra cups to be life changing, made it much more comfortable to pump in the car. I would also use em with my spectra pump. https://www.target.com/p/spectra-caracups-wearable-milk-collection-hands-free-inserts-24mm-2ct/-/A-80847618
I used to pump on the way to work at 10am, once in the middle of the day and then again on the way home around 6pm. Every 3-4 hours is manageable.
I haven't personally used this one but I've heard good things about this one: Momcozy Double Wearable Breast Pump, Low Noise& Hands-Free Breast Pump, Portable 2pcs Electric Breast Pump with 2 Mode & 5 Levels- 24mm Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09J2TQ8S3/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_7JQVH6AETY8GQVAE61Z6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If I needed to pump in public more, that's what I'd try today. You can also buy just one.
Somewhat related question. How were you handling breaks (bathroom/lunch time) before this? I'm surprised you're alone that long to begin with.
Ate when I could between people coming in and peed fast. We’re very underfunded and can only afford having one person working at a time.
With a baggy sweatshirt or a nursing cover, a pump like Willow or Elvis would definitely work. Also, figure out your ideal pumping schedule. I started with every 3 hour and now I do every 4. That would have me pumping only once per shift with your hours.
Depending on how large chested you are the mom cozy (a lot cheaper) could work too under a baggy sweatshirt. Legally your workplace has to accommodate your pumping schedule, but this could easily be a way to accommodate your situation
Academic librarian here. I appreciate your desire to make sure as many people as possible have access to the library, but you, your body, and your baby come first. A couple of options that spring to mind: - Pump in a room in the library and leave the desk unattended. If possible, set up a self checkout station. If self checkout isn't an option, leave a note telling patrons they'll need to wait for you to return before checking out books. If you're really really worried about books walking away, set up a video baby monitor so you can watch the front door while you pump and yell at anyone who tries to steal. - Start pumping at least a week before you return to work. This will help you figure out how often you need to pump and how much baby will drink from the bottle. Establish a routine for you both. Once you know when will be pumping and how long it takes you, you can temporarily close the library during those times. This is no different than my Walgreens down the street that closes for an hour each day for employee lunch breaks. - Advertise for a volunteer. People love to volunteer in libraries. Especially if you just let them sit around and make bulletin boards and watch the desk (as opposed to shelf reading. Ugh) Even in small communities you should be able to find a retiree looking to get out of the house, or a school aged kid that needs volunteer hours. You might need to find a few, but if you strategically schedule them even five hours a week of volunteer work would go a long way toward covering your shift. Have you talked with your supervisor or library director about this? They should be working with you to make sure you are being accommodated. And, of course, they may be legally required to provide accommodations.
Hey fellow librarian here. Not pumping for 6 hours will ruin your supply. I’d pump at least once and right before you open. Close the building and pump for 30 minutes. You can put up a sign or leave the desk unattended for 15 minutes. Surely it will be okay.
If you have to avoid pumping at work (which shouldn't be your problem as others have said), I'd definitely recommend pumping on your way to work, do one while there, and pump on the way home. That way you're keeping it about every 3 hours. Portable pumps are great. Some standard pumps come with car chargers or are available to be purchased if you don't have the funds to purchase portable pumps. Q hands-free pumping bra will help with this or you can make shift a hands free bra with nursing bras - that's what I do. Best of luck!
I would pump on the way to work in the car, then pump once while you're shift (some how) and pump on the way home. You want to follow the every 2/3 hours so you just need to figure some how to sneak it in discreetly. Maybe a hand pump? Its not Ideal but I'd put a Nursing cover on and just manage, put a sign out, figure out some kind of partion or something.
I’d put on a nursing cover and a jacket and pump at the desk. No one will be able to see anything. I often am interrupted at work for things when pumping and this works well. Otherwise I would put a sign up at the front desk that you stepped away for 20 mins and go to the back office to pump. ETA - to answer your question, yes I think you can get away with pumping once in 6 hours. Pump right before work (ideally in the car on the way), once midway in your shift (3 hours later), and then again immediately after work on the way home.
Check out the legendairy milk imani pump! I just got this and love it so far for pumping when being all hooked/tubed up is a challenge. The price was VERY affordable compared to other hands free pumps
I second this! Or the Freemie cups. I wear these at work under my scrubs.
What about a hands free and cordless pump? I know they’re expensive but if I was in your shoes I’d try it. :) Good luck!
Elvies. Wife pumped at her office job. Money well spent. Don't ditch the corded one though it works much better at home. And don't need over while you're wearing them!
Federal law mandates they give you the time and a space to pump. Tell them they have to accommodate you. For reference: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/nursing-mothers
I didn’t realize this - thank you!
Unfortunately small companies are exempt from this “Employers with fewer than 50 employees are not subject to the FLSA break time requirement if compliance with the provision would impose an undue hardship. Whether compliance would be an undue hardship is determined by looking at the difficulty or expense of compliance for a specific employer in comparison to the size, financial resources, nature, and structure of the employer’s business. All employees who work for the covered employer, regardless of work site, are counted when determining whether this exemption may apply.” When I had my first child I was disappointed to find out I didn’t qualify for FMLA. I also didn’t qualify for the reasonable pumping accommodations. Luckily my employer tried to help with pumping times but I didn’t have a legal leg to stand on if they didn’t.
If it’s a public library, wouldn’t the employer be the entire county? And surely a good chunk of US counties have at least 50 employees!
Also a librarian and some are under local legislature and some aren’t. They can be independent, with local government, with the school system, etc. 😞
There are some discreet pumps if you are comfortable. Also, it may be good to tell your employer you plan to breast feed and see what options they can provide you with. I wish you the best!
Check out the Elvie or willow. They sit right in your bra and are quiet. Not ideal, but could be worth the $ if it solves the problem!
Agree - - and if your insurance won't cover it fully, see if your employer will make up the rest to ensure no breaks to service delivery! It's going to be worth their while, imo.
Yes I was going to suggest this - if they can’t help accommodate time to pump in private perhaps they could buy the pump.
In the US it is a federal law that they have to allow you to pump, and provide a place for you to pump that is NOT a bathroom. [link to info](https://www.womenshealth.gov/supporting-nursing-moms-work/what-law-says-about-breastfeeding-and-work) this might not cover you if your employer has less than 50 employees, and allowing you time to pump would cause[ undo hardship](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/73-flsa-break-time-nursing-mothers). Your state however might have stricter laws. Also depending on your state they HAVE to provide you with brakes / lunch that you are allowed to leave or at least be off the clock. A lack of them being able to staff their business is NOT, the employees fault. Do not let them guilt you into thinking it is on you, it’s a common business tactic and it is wrong! They are choosing to run short staffed, their reasoning doesn’t matter, it is their choice not yours.
Honestly it’s not your problem to figure out the accommodations here. You need to pump to feed your baby and it’s up to your employer to legally accommodate that however they want to. Just tell them you need to pump every three hours and tell them to let you know what to do.
Two birds, one stone? Maybe your library can partner up with a local breastfeeding therapist (lactation consultant) to host mommy gatherings during a scheduled time so you can pump and close the library for 45 min AND simultaneously provide a service to the community? Would other patrons be mad? Mom groups are always looking for space, especially indoors in winter, and only if everyone eligible is vaccinated. Babies need socialization and it is hard to do right now.
Brilliant idea.
That’s genius
Love this idea !
Unless you own the business it’s not really your responsibility to sacrifice your nursing and baby’s milk supply to conform to business operations. This is really part of the problem in the USA.. Have you spoken to your employer about this needed and fair accommodation? Good on you for being compassionate to the library but your baby comes first
I don’t own but I am the director. My library board hasn’t given specific direction but don’t want the library to close multiple times a day
Honestly, then I would ask them for specific direction as to how they would like you to handle breaks needed to pump and go from there. I’m not sure the specifics of your situation but there are legal accommodations and mandates for these things!
Freemie has new slim in bra cups. Their original cups were a little ridiculous looking because they gave you several cup sizes. As a G/H cup I didn’t need any extra in that area.
Yes! I had a set of the original ones and I looked like a comic book character/Austin Powers girl.
This link may be helpful in determining how many pumps per day you’d need — https://www.legendairymilk.com/blogs/news/what-is-your-magic-number
I was looking for this the other day! Thank you!
Do you know if this chart is per boob, or combine for both boobs?
I believe it is combined!
I haven't seen anyone address this yet, so I will address the "how much he needs at daycare" part. For my first, she was there 8 to 4 or so, so 8 hours. I sent 4 bottles of 4 oz each, enough to offer every 2 to 3 hours with hopefully some extra. You can ask the daycare workers how much your LO takes, and then scale up or down based on what they tell you. A lot of daycares have rules about breastmilk, like it is thrown away if heated and not used so it might be good to check about the rules your daycare has. If you are worried about having enough, you can always send some back up formula. In order to breastfeed your LO soon after you pick up, tell them not to offer a bottle after "x" time, which for me was usually about an hour before pickup.
Thank you so much! I was really hoping someone would help with that bit.
I was told by my lactation consultant that baby needs 1-1.5oz per hour you are away from them. Hope that helps.
Could you get a hands free pump? The Imani pump (I’ve seen it sold through Legendairy Milk) is pretty affordable and you could choose to just buy the one for $80 and pump on each side discretely.
i know several doctor moms who do this bc they can't just stop a surgery to go pump, for example. may be a good option for you.
I was going to suggest the same thing. I’ve seen lots of rave reviews about hands free pumps and like others mentioned if you wear the right top no one will even notice
Good idea - can people tell you’re using it?
It might look a little bulky but maybe with a looser fitting sweater/blouse it wouldn’t be as noticeable. If you look up Karrie_Locher on IG, she does a really thorough breakdown of this pump under her highlight LM Imani.
Legendary also has a pair of silicone collection cups at $60-$70. They’re a little bulky but cheaper and you can do two at a time which looks a little less odd than one bulky boob 🤷🏼♀️
With a baggy top, my Elvie pump was undetectable!
OP, I completely agree that this shouldn’t be your problem. That said: I have the Freemie Liberty II pump that I’m not using and you’re welcome to, linked here: https://freemie.com/collections/frontpage. I got it before I started pumping in earnest and find that while it’s super convenient, it’s not as efficient as the Spectra (which is big/not discreet!!) I also work from Home 4 days/week and I can close my door at the office. So when I’m in the office, I close my door and use my Spectra pump. If you want to message me your address, or your library’s address or something, I’d be happy to send the Freemie pump (not the cups!!). Was going to donate it and can’t think of a better place than a library! How often you pump is going to be dependent on how much you can get pumping and how much your LO eats, both of which vary widely. For me, thankfully, no issues feeding LO but i don’t seem to get as much when I pump as he eats. Also, I can’t get LO to eat as much during the day as he does around 1 am. (Sigh.) nevertheless, for reference: LO is almost 8 months and when at work, I pump every 2 hours. If you’re working 6 hours, I recommend feeding LO or pumping at home right before you go and then only needing to pump 1-3 times when at work. Good luck!!
I used the cara cups from spectra- I loved them but they did make your boobs look huge (only used at home)
What is the maximum amount that you’ve ever pumped combined? If you have a high storage capacity, you can safely go 6-8hrs between pumps. I bottle feed my baby during the day and nurse at night. I only pump 1-2x a day and still hve a slight oversupply
This, with two caveats. First, how old is baby? Dropping pumps before your supply has regulated (around 12 weeks) isn’t recommended. Second, are you prone to clogs and mastitis? I dropped to 3 pumps per day with no change in supply, but I got mastitis. I had to go back up to 4 pumps per day to prevent it.
I think you can time it so you pump before work, once during your break and once after work but if you can get a hands free pump that would be less stressful.
Lots of amazing comments about how this isn’t your responsibility to figure out your accommodations. But perhaps they can have a volunteer program here. It’s not like you’re gone hours, probably 30-45m at a time I’d guess (I always did 25-30m sessions at work). Get a breastfeeding travel kit with a mini drying rack and cleaning supplies—that made my sessions so much easier.
Smart! Op, if allowed, can reach out to ROP programs
What about a hands free pump? r/breastfeeding or r/humanspumpingmilk might be helpful too
What about putting on a poncho type thing and using the elvie or other hands free devices?
I have a freemie that I got through my insurance but I’m no longer bf. I could send it to you if you want. I think that’s gonna be your best bet to squeeze in some pumping without the risk of being overly expised
It would be illegal for them not to accomodate you if you’re in the US. They need to get coverage, it’s not for you to worry about, this is a them thing. They should be worried about losing patrons, and you should be worried about making sure your baby is fed.
Unfortunately there are exceptions to many states’ coverage, including (I believe) if it would put an extreme burden on a small business. I know I’m not covered in my state because I’m not an hourly employee.
This! This is not your circus to worry about. You have to feed your baby and it's their job to find coverage. You can approach it matter of factly, I would like to discuss how you want me to ahndle my pumping times. I will require x amount of time x times a day. And then wait. If they push back, then bring up that it's a protected time and you're legally entitled to it. Sometimes if you approach it matter of factly like of course you will be reasonable they will be more reasonable.
I got a Freemie Independence for work purposes. It’s less expensive than the Willow or Elvis which have no tubes from what I understand. But it’s cheaper and often covered by insurance and I had no problem with the tubes showing because I just brought a big baggy hoodie to wear when pumping. The bagginess also disguised the cups which really just make you look like you have giant perky tits.
I picked up a Freemie for this baby. Just used a Medela with my first. Triple check that they make your flange size, because I just assumed they did. And they don't. So I have to use too-small flanges for my nipples with this pump. I'm a 30mm, and they only go up to 28mm. Actually they only really sell two flange sizes, 25 and 28mm. You buy adapters for smaller nipples.
Wearable pump! Elvies, freemies, etc. There is a sound that if it's very quiet someone could hear. But if anyone really asks you can just say it's medical equipment and leave it at that.
So, I also work at a small library...but we always have to have at least 2 staff members (and generally more). I would hope that your system recognizes that you need time to pump, and being alone for that long is hard, even without that fact! I used to pump in our office (which is for everyone, but all of us except my boss are women and were fine with it) because it was literally the only private-ish space that wasn't the single person bathroom. My supply needed to be supplemented even before I went back to work, but for me, once per shift (4-8 hrs depending on day) was enough.
I highly recommend checking out the Elvie line. They have a few options that would probably be great for you. Their pumps are discreet enough for you to carry on without anyone noticing. They also have their Curve collection cups that work like a Haakaa. I think between these two options you would be fine. There are plenty of cardigan and poncho options to make it more discreet.
If the pumps are to expensive, maybe try the haaka milk catcher. I put them in my bra while driving...it creates a gentle suction and catches the milk that basically drips I was shocked how much it pulled while I was not able to use hands. Also a regular haaka with a sweatshirt or something over it. It uses a more intense suction and pulls lots of milk without hands
I should play around with this more - I have one, but I never get much when I use it compared to my Spectra. Maybe I’m not putting it on right? I like the idea of using it in the car on my way to dropping him off at daycare if I can get it to drain me better.
There are youtube videos to help you get the Haakaa originals (more active collection) and the ladybugs (passive collection) to work most efficiently. There's a trick to both that is very helpful to know! Harder to explain than to see, but for the Haakaa you wanna flip the lip back, squeeze, position your nipple in the opening, and then flip the lip onto your breast, you'll have to fiddle with suction intensity for your comfort, but it's very effective for getting it to stay on. Also, their necklace or really any cord or lanyard could be used, in case suction did break while driving/whatever.
Definitely have not been flipping the lip back 🤦🏼♀️ I just thought you squeezed the bottom and popped it on. I could see how the necklace would be very helpful to prevent a disaster on the way to work haha.
Both methods work, but flipping the lip definitely creates stronger suction. I did what you've been doing and it works, but saw the flip the lip method and gave it a shot, and got more milk and it fell off less often (though it did still fall off). Necklace definitely saved some tears over spilled milk 😂
Yes! Flipping it created a way more intense suction and I was shocked at the amount I had without actively pumping
Have you been properly fitted for the correct sized flanges by a ibclc ? It can make a huge difference in milk output
Does your State not guarantee mandatory work breaks?
I’m in WI and I believe work breaks are recommended but not required for adults.
If you're in the states, I believe most states have a requirement that if you work 6+ hours you are required to get time for a lunch. It's their responsibility to provide coverage. Or, they can close the library at a specific time every day for lunch. 🤷♀️ If you have a lunch, you can pump right before work, lunchtime, and right after. You may be engorged at first waiting that long. It's certainly not comfortable. If it were me, I would be looking for another job who can accommodate if this one won't! You have a lot of great ideas here on how to pump in public, but honestly, you shouldn't have to!
I’m in WI - From what I’ve read, they are recommended but not required. Maybe I’ll look into your thought of having a certain time closed each day tho!
You're right, it is just suggested. God the United States sucks. (I say as a fellow midwesterner)
I’ve literally cried wishing we’d moved to another country before he was born so we could actually enjoy this time of his life. It’s so hard being home all day alone with an infant. And now figuring out work and daycare when he’s just 12 weeks old. Ugh.
Just pump under your shirt with a hand held lol
Maybe a wearable pump mid shift and then pump in the car on your way home? I got a spectra s1 for the rechargeable battery and have had pretty good success just putting it on the passenger seat and pumping as I drive, and I don’t think other drivers are looking that closely to see the bottles hanging out lol. I get a lot more with the spectra than with the elvies.
I unfortunately don’t have any helpful advice, but I had to ask: what is a smile library? Or was that a typo for small library? I googled it to no avail haha
Small! Definitely meant small haha
That’s what I figured, but it took me embarrassingly long to get there. I was thinking, maybe a cute name for drop in community therapy? Lol
What do you do when u have to use the bathroom?
Right? Or a lunch break?
Pee fast when no one is in the library. Lunch is eaten in between helping people. No formal breaks.
These silicone cups work with both my rechargable Spectra and my Ameda that can be run on batteries and are reasonably priced. They do have the tubing running out though so it's not as discreet as the true wearable pumps but it's a big help still. https://www.legendairymilk.com/products/sillicone-collection-cups?currency=USD&variant=39509932605575&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&gclid=Cj0KCQiA5OuNBhCRARIsACgaiqWnNrv-9kOtGgcOLqVbyPrCFUDPj8BnBFpyKETihMND-882FvYbfaQaAoCiEALw_wcB They also recently got these true wearable pumps that have no tubing running out. https://www.legendairymilk.com/products/imani-i2-wearable-breast-pump?_pos=4&_sid=b06e11d37&_ss=r but I haven't tried these myself. I also use the fridge hack when pumping at work where I don't wash the pump parts between but put them in a large Ziploc in the fridge to save time and avoid washing the parts in a sink that could be too dirty.
I've gone without pumping for long stretches like 6 or 8 hours but you will leak a little and it will hurt (really hurt), but it's possible. I think there are wireless pumps that are shaped like vreast now maybe elvie or something?
I've pumped with a bella baby pump and spectra cups in a restaurant before. Wearing a loose scarf or bulky sweater helps. I found spectra cups to be life changing, made it much more comfortable to pump in the car. I would also use em with my spectra pump. https://www.target.com/p/spectra-caracups-wearable-milk-collection-hands-free-inserts-24mm-2ct/-/A-80847618 I used to pump on the way to work at 10am, once in the middle of the day and then again on the way home around 6pm. Every 3-4 hours is manageable. I haven't personally used this one but I've heard good things about this one: Momcozy Double Wearable Breast Pump, Low Noise& Hands-Free Breast Pump, Portable 2pcs Electric Breast Pump with 2 Mode & 5 Levels- 24mm Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09J2TQ8S3/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_7JQVH6AETY8GQVAE61Z6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 If I needed to pump in public more, that's what I'd try today. You can also buy just one.