Many employers today are supportive of breastfeeding moms, simply because there are several health benefits for both mom and baby. Babies who breastfeed typically have fewer infections, which means less doctors visits  and sick time for moms. Studies have also shown that women who breastfeed have a decreased risk of breast cancer, while other studies reveal that nursing lessens the likelihood or impact of postpartum depression.

If you’re concerned about how you’ll continue to nurse after returning to work, here are some recommendations for you to think about so that you can actively breastfeed, even as a busy mom.

1. Do your legwork in locating a quiet place for milk expression–before you approach your boss. Discover your options, do your research and find out where you can breastfeed or express milk at work. Can you add dividers to your cubicle for privacy? Is there a small office you can use, perhaps? Or maybe your office has a mother’s lounge? Find out and see what options you have.

2. Ally yourself with other new moms in your office. Your employer will be more likely to agree to endorse a common designated area for milk expression or breastfeeding if there are other nursing moms in the office. If you are able to set up a group of like-minded moms in your office, you immediately have a lactation support group in your office! Also, consider investing in a small, box-type refrigerator for storing milk.

3. Have the proper breastfeeding clothes and discreet nursing aids. Wear tops that allow for easy nursing and pumping access. Thankfully, there are several brands that carry fashionable nursing wear, such as Latch a Babe Nursing and Maternity; they have a line of feminine yet functional breastfeeding- and pregnancy-friendly clothes to suit your personality. If you don’t have a nursing top, try a discreet breastfeeding wrap instead, like the Sophie Snuggler.

4. Walk the talk as a nursing mom. If you want to go a step further, write a proposal to your boss and “sell” him or her the idea of a lactation room in your office. Having such a benefit for mom employees will definitely put your company on the map as a breastfeeding-friendly company, which is always good publicity since there is so much information out there these days on the need for more breastfeeding support worldwide.

5. Use your work time wisely. If you’re worried about the time nursing will take away from your work eat at your desk and split your hour lunch break into two 30 minute nursing sessions.

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