1 in 3 Breastfeeding Parents Still Don’t Have a Place To Pump at Work

A recent survey is highlighting the persistent challenges many working breastfeeding parents are all too familiar with. It found that 1 in 3 of them still don’t have a place to pump at work, despite the federal PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, which was signed into law in 2022.

The new survey, conducted by Mamava and Medela in May 2025, included nearly 3,000 parents. The goal was to learn more about their feeding journeys, challenges, and support systems. The findings highlight the fact that workplaces and public spaces still aren’t accommodating.

This can undermine a parent’s comfort and safety, while also putting undue strain on their efforts to continue breastfeeding after returning to the office. It also means parents often use any open space they can, including cars, storage closets, or bathrooms.

“The logistics of pumping, the lack of reliable spaces, and confusion about workplace rights are persistent barriers,” says Sascha Mayer, co-founder and chief experience officer with Mamava, one of the sponsors of the study. “These obstacles chip away at parents’ ability to meet their feeding goals and make breastfeeding feel less accessible, despite their strong desire and motivation to do it.”

Lack of Support for Pumping in the Workplace

Data shows that while most parents start out breastfeeding—83% nationally—the drop-off by six months is steep, with about 56% still feeding some breastmilk. A large percentage of this decline could be related to not having a designated space to pump at work. The lack of appropriate spaces not only causes stress, but it also communicates that a breastfeeding parent’s needs aren’t valued in the workplace, says Mayer.

The ability to pump is critical for a working parent trying to meet American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding, says Jenelle Ferry, MD, board-certified neonatologist and director of feeding, nutrition, and infant development at Pediatrix Medical Group in Tampa, Florida. Both organizations recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life and then with complementary foods for up to 2 years (and beyond if desired).

“Lack of pumping or breastfeeding spaces both at work and in public spaces also exacerbates inequality,” adds Dr. Ferry.

Impact on the parent

For parents, not pumping regularly can lead to engorgement, clogged ducts, mastitis (a painful breast infection), and a drop in supply, says Leah Tribus, BSN, RN, IBCLC, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and senior director of clinical and strategic partnerships with the Lactation Network. “Emotionally, it’s frustrating and disheartening when your workplace doesn’t support something so basic,” shares Tribus.

It can also be tough for parents hoping to offer their baby the benefits of breast milk, such as immune protection and optimal nutrition. “Studies show babies of working parents who get consistent pumped milk have fewer illnesses and doctor visits,” says Tribus.

Impact on businesses

When breastfeeding is not supported, businesses may also experience an impact on productivity, high turnover rates, and potentially elevated health care costs.

“Without proper space and time, parents may cut their feeding journeys short,” says Mayer. “And the lack of infrastructure has ripple effects—on family health, equity, and the economy.”

What Are Your Rights at Work?

Signed into law in late 2022, the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act requires most employers to provide reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space for employees to pump, says Mayer. It applies to nearly all workers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act, though there are some exemptions for small employers and certain job categories, she says.

The exemptions include some airline employees and some railroad or motorcoach employees. (Although Dr. Ferry says there is legislation going into effect at the end of 2025 that will cover some of these employees.) Likewise, those working for a company with fewer than 50 employees, where compliance would create undue hardship on the company, are also exempt.

“The law is clear, but our survey found that 45% of parents are still unclear about their rights, and 13% don’t know the law exists at all,” says Mayer.

The first step is to know your rights and speak up, she says.

“Most employers want to do the right thing,” she adds. Mayer suggests approaching the conversation as an advocate, not as an adversary. And, if you are not sure how to go about doing that, the Mamava website offers resources that highlight the benefits to parents and employers when lactation needs are met. If your employer is out of compliance, you can also file a complaint with the Department of Labor.

Tips for Continuing Breastfeeding Despite Challenges

Breastfeeding and pumping while in the workforce can be challenging, especially while your body is still healing. Plus, researchers have found that it can be one of the biggest barriers to continued breastfeeding. This is why experts recommend having a plan in place before you return to the office. Here are some things to consider.

• Schedule a back-to-work planning visit with a lactation consultant. They can help you customize your schedule, says Tribus. Later, they can help you adjust it based on what’s working and what isn’t.
• Plan your pump schedule. Try to pump every two to four hours at work. “This gives some flexibility around meetings,” says Tribus.
• Use portable, efficient pumps. Tribus says many parents now rely on wearable pumps for their convenience and privacy.
• Have a pumping kit ready. Also, make sure you have wipes, spare parts, collection and storage containers, and a cooler bag.
• Know your public options. All 50 states allow breastfeeding in public. “Apps like Mamava can help you find pumping or nursing spaces when you’re out, and companies like MilkMate build custom spaces for employers that need help setting up employee pump areas,” says Tribus.
• Lean on support. Partners, coworkers, and lactation consultants can all help troubleshoot challenges, says Tribus.
• Give yourself grace. Every ounce you pump or every feed you give at the breast is valuable, says Tribus, adding, “Perfect consistency isn’t the goal—sustainability is.”

The bottom line? You have the right to pump if that’s your goal, and you deserve a safe, private space to do so. “When workplaces and public areas step up to support breastfeeding, it makes it so much easier for families to reach their feeding goals—and that benefits everyone,” says Tribus.