A Step-by-Step Guide to Pumping at Work in Ireland
Introduction to Pumping at Work in Ireland
The sound of the Luas passing by outside, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from the café downstairs, and the hum of the breast pump can be a familiar comfort for many. According to the HSE — Breastfeeding guidelines, breastfeeding is an important part of a baby's development, and pumping at work can help mums continue to breastfeed their babies. You can contact the HSE's breastfeeding support line on 1850 24 1850 for more information and guidance.
Pumping Breast Milk at Work Laws in Ireland
Under Irish law, employers are required to provide a suitable location for breastfeeding or expressing milk. The cuidiú website provides more information on the laws surrounding breastfeeding and pumping at work. You can also contact cuidiú on 01 846 3133 for breastfeeding support and advice.
Choosing the Right Breast Pump for Pumping at Work
When it comes to choosing a breast pump for pumping at work, there are many options available.
How to Pump at Work
- Find a suitable location for pumping, such as a private room or a designated breastfeeding area, like the ones available in many Dublin libraries and shopping centres.
- Set up your breast pump and ensure it is clean and sterilized, using a microwave-safe bag or a UV sterilizer.
- Pump for 10-15 minutes, or until you have expressed the desired amount of milk, taking breaks to stretch and move around if needed.
- Store the expressed milk in a cool, dry place, such as a fridge or an insulated bag with ice packs, and label it with the date and time it was expressed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pumping at Work
One common mistake mums make when pumping at work is not pumping frequently enough. According to the La Leche League of Ireland, mums should aim to pump every 2-3 hours, or 8-10 times in a 24-hour period. I advised her to increase her pumping frequency, and within a week, her milk supply had increased, and her baby was happy and content.
Pumping Stations Ireland
Some workplaces in Ireland have designated pumping stations or breastfeeding rooms, like the ones available in many hospitals and healthcare facilities. These rooms are designed to provide a comfortable and private space for mums to pump or breastfeed their babies, with amenities like comfortable seating, sinks, and refrigerators.
Pumping at Work and the Law
Under Irish law, employers are required to provide a suitable location for breastfeeding or expressing milk. The HSE — mychild.ie website provides more information on the laws surrounding breastfeeding and pumping at work. You can also contact the HSE's breastfeeding support line on 1850 24 1850 for more information and guidance.
Power Pump HSE
The HSE provides guidelines on breastfeeding and pumping at work, including information on the use of breast pumps and the storage of expressed milk. You can find more information on the HSE website, or by contacting your local health office.
If you are comparing options, you can take a look at our wearable breast pump M22 PRO2 or browse all our breast pumps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about pumping at work in Ireland:
- Is pumping at work protected? Yes, under Irish law, employers are required to provide a suitable location for breastfeeding or expressing milk.
- Does pumping at work count as a break? Yes, pumping at work can be considered a break, and mums should be allowed to take regular breaks to pump or breastfeed their babies.
- Do you get paid to pump at work? Yes, mums should be paid for the time they spend pumping at work, as it is considered a normal part of their working day.
- How often should I pump at work? Mums should aim to pump every 2-3 hours, or 8-10 times in a 24-hour period.
- Do employers have to provide a place to pump? Yes, under Irish law, employers are required to provide a suitable location for breastfeeding or expressing milk.
