“Workplace Rights as a New Mom: Your Rights to Pumping Milk and Taking Leave

March 2, 2024

Being a new mom is an extraordinary journey filled with joy, challenges, and significant life adjustments—especially when it comes to balancing the needs of your newborn with your career. If you’re feeling unfairly treated at work because you’re trying to pump milk or take leave, know that you’re not alone, and more importantly, you have rights that protect you.

Your Right to Pump Milk at Work

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers are required to provide reasonable break time for an employee to express breast milk for her nursing child for one year after the child’s birth. Here’s what you should expect:

• Privacy: A place, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion.
• Break Time: Reasonable break time to express milk as frequently as needed by the nursing mother.

Taking Leave as a New Mom

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons, including the birth of a child and to care for the newborn within one year of birth.

Practical Tips for New Working Moms

1. Know Your Rights: Educate yourself on the laws that protect you, such as the FLSA and FMLA, and any state-specific laws in Illinois that may offer additional protections.
2. Communicate with Your Employer: Have an open dialogue with your employer about your needs for pumping breaks and any leave you plan to take. Clear communication can often prevent misunderstandings.
3. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of requests made to your employer and any responses or actions taken. This can be invaluable if any disputes arise.
4. Plan Ahead: If possible, discuss your pumping needs and leave plans with your employer before you go on maternity leave, so arrangements can be made in advance.
5. Seek Support: Connect with other working moms for advice and support. They can offer practical tips and share their experiences on how they navigated similar challenges.

When to Seek Legal Help

If you believe your rights are being violated, or if you’re facing discrimination or retaliation because of your pregnancy, pumping needs, or leave, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance. The Pietrucha Law Firm is dedicated to advocating for the rights of working mothers like you.

Don’t let your employer’s lack of accommodation or understanding deter you from providing for your child. You have the law on your side, and with the right legal support, you can ensure that your rights are respected.

Contact Pietrucha Law Firm Today

If you’re experiencing challenges at work related to pregnancy, pumping milk, or taking leave, we’re here to help. At Pietrucha Law Firm, we understand the nuances of employment law and are committed to helping new moms receive fair treatment in the workplace.

Call us at (630) 344-6370 to discuss your situation and explore your options. Let us help you balance the scales so you can focus on what matters most—your new little one.