Comments on: Don’t ask don’t tell – breastfeeding in the workplace

By: Theresa

Theresa — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:30:34 +0000

It became very difficult for me to find a place to pump when I was working. I eventually found out that there were 2 mother’s room in my building, one was being used as an office (go figure) and the other was a dirty, nasty storage room filled with old tools and carpet, right outside the company gym. I contacted HR/facilities and they were pretty prompt in cleaning/re-painting the storage room. But they wanted me to check out a key from the gym manager and I felt that to be an invasion of my privacy, so I rebelled and found someplace else when I could. Pumping at work is difficult enough, trying to stay on top of work and not look like you’re taking advantage of anything…not to mention having to look past the eyes that roll, or the “humpfs” from others who think you take too many “breaks” (which, ironically, seemed to be from other women)…but you are so right, no matter how you feed your child, all moms should be supportive of each other.

By: Maureen

Maureen — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:27:31 +0000

Wow i never pumped at work for that reason. At the time i had Samantha i was the only one in my area that had a baby we have a low turnover so most of the women i work with are in their late 40′s and 50′s so they were all done with children. i asked a few about if there was a place for pumping and was directed to a small locker room area that was not very private at all. Being a new mom i was scared to death someone would walk in. every day I would run home from work with sore breasts to feed my daughter. i wish i had been more brave to ask for a better place but live and learn I guess. I do have one funny story i took Samantha to a children’s holiday party that took place after work. I needed to feed her and the director was not in so I used his office. He still does not know to this day!

By: Carla Molina Martins

Carla Molina Martins — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:49:23 +0000

It amazes me that some workplaces today still don’t have a decent place to pump. Good for you for taking action!