Re: how to balance pumping and employment...? is it worth it
Ha-ha, I have found with male bosses that they're so uncomfortable talking about it that it's a "Whatever you want -- just go!" situation. I happily bring it up..."Gotta go pump now!" But I have heard of women whose bosses really don't understand and don't like to see them away from their desk so much. I"m a very productive worker and had a hard time with the fact that I had to be interrupted so much to pump. I felt like I wasn't accomplishing anything. But after a few months it got easier and I felt like I got into a rhythm. It's hard to plan around meetings and things sometimes, but as long as you're fairly consistent the occasional missed pumping session or shortened one won't make a huge difference.
I found it was worth it -- you feel very connected to your baby knowing your still providing milk for him/her. Also, my baby has not had any real illnesses -- no ear infection, no major colds. Granted, we have a nanny so she's not in day care so limited time with other kids, but her dad has been sick a few times and neither she nor I caught it. I feel like the very few times I've taken off work to take care of my little one make up for the fact that I'm pumping a few times a day. Also, I never bothered with the hands-free pumping bras, but I'm sure that would help if you could manage to have a computer in your pumping space. I wasn't able to have one so I just read some books or listened to podcasts, which is rather relaxing!
Mom to my sweet little "Pooper," born 10/12/11, and "Baby Brother," born 6/23/2014, and married to heavy metal husband. Working more than full-time, making healthy vegetarian meals for family, and trying to keep up with exercise routine.