There is nothing more exciting than having a baby. Becoming a mother or having more children does not mean you have to stop working.
Workplace accommodations are necessary for lactating moms-to-be. Be aware of the law as it pertains to your situation.
Laws about breastfeeding at work
The Fair Labor Standards Act sets rules on minimum wages and overtime pay. Section 7 of the agreement includes the Break Time for Nursing Mothers law. This section states that women may pump milk at work.
Companies made to follow FLSA have to hang a notice informing employees of their rights. Search common spaces for this posting. If you fail to find one, ask your human resources manager whether the law applies to your position.
Even if FLSA regulations do not apply, your employer may provide lactation benefits. Consult your supervisor for clarification on the rules.
The law does not mandate paying women for time spent expressing milk. That said, this is a legally acceptable activity during unpaid break times under FLSA. Contact a pregnancy discrimination expert if your employer says otherwise.
Getting support for breastfeeding at work
Not all bosses are familiar with the needs of breastfeeding women. Talking with a manager may be all you need to foster better workplace acceptance. Discussing the importance of a designated lactation space could prove fruitful. Stress the value of informing coworkers you will be taking regular pumping breaks.
Breastfeeding women have special needs, even when they are on the job. Recognize that you have legal protections throughout each trimester.