Breastfeeding and RTO: What Parents Need to Know to Make It Work

Returning to the office shouldn’t mean giving up your breastfeeding goals—but without a plan, it can feel overwhelming. Between long commutes, back-to-back meetings, and the challenge of finding a clean, private space to pump, many breastfeeding parents struggle to make it work. The good news? With the right preparation and support, you can successfully continue your breastfeeding journey after heading back to the office.

Step 1: Make a Plan

Before you return to the office, map out the pumping and breast milk storage logistics ahead of time. Here's how:

• Confirm Your Workplace’s Lactation Accommodations. The PUMP Act requires employers to provide a private, non-bathroom space for pumping. Check with HR and confirm the location and access to a place to pump.

• Schedule Pumping Breaks on Your Calendar. Maintain your breast milk supply by scheduling sessions mid-morning, lunch, and mid-afternoon.

• Talk to Your Manager. Set expectations early to ensure your pumping needs are supported. The PUMP Act entitles you to pumping breaks for up to one year after child birth. Talk to your HR representative if you need help having that conversation with your direct supervisor.

• Prepare Your Baby for the Transition. If your baby has never taken a bottle, start that introduction as soon as possible. And if you support, lactation consultants can provide expert advice and help you (and your baby) navigate the change.

Step 2: Prep for the Commute

The addition of a daily commute can be one of the biggest challenges of RTO for breastfeeding parents. Whether you're driving, taking public transit, or here’s how to keep your pumping breast milk safe:

• Find the Right Breast Milk Cooler. The Milk Cubby, for instance, actively cools freshly expressed breast milk to refrigerated temperature and keeps it at a safe temperature for hours, making it ideal for parents commuting to and from work.

• Plan for Pumping On-the-Go. If you need to pump during your commute, consider a hands-free pump and bring extra storage bags for convenience.

• Know Your Breast Milk Storage Options at Work. If your office doesn’t provide a fridge, you'll need a cooler that can get as cold as 40°F to keep breast milk safely chilled throughout the day.

Step 3: Demand Workplace Support

Companies that prioritize working parents see better retention, engagement, and job satisfaction. If your workplace isn’t set up for breastfeeding parents, here’s what to ask for:

•  A Dedicated Lactation Room. A comfortable chair, power outlets, a sink nearby, and easy refrigerator or freezer access.

• Employer-Sponsored Lactation Benefits. Milk Stork provides comprehensive support for breastfeeding employees, including breast milk storage on the go, lactation room setup and supplies, and breast milk transport options for work travel.

• Flexible Work Options. Hybrid work or remote days can help balance breastfeeding with job responsibilities.

Breastfeeding & Work Can Coexist

Returning to work as a breastfeeding parent isn’t easy, but with the right plan and tools, it’s absolutely possible. Whether it’s securing a great pumping space, using a reliable milk storage solution like the Milk Cubby, or advocating for your needs at work, you deserve support on this journey.

Need help figuring out how to make RTO work for you? Check out Milk Stork’s travel solutions for breastfeeding parents, or for comprehensive lactation support covered by your company, refer your employer.