Pumping At the Airport

You’re headed on vacation to escape the winter blahs. Yes! That might mean you’re headed to the airport. And while not quite as dramatic as some of the stories shared in our last post, breast pumping in an airport is definitely awkward.

Over the past years, many airports have improved the conditions for breast pumping mamas by defining specific mother’s lounges. However, these conditions vary drastically by city.

Here are a few tips to make your airport breast pumping experience as manageable and pleasant as possible.

• The best time to pump is after you clear security and before you board your flight. You don’t want to be boarded and delayed and waiting to pump for an unknown period of time.
• Many airports now offer mother’s lounges where you can freely pump or nurse. Check your airport’s website before traveling to determine the location. If you forget to check beforehand, ask at an information booth within the airport.
• If your airport offers no mother’s lounge consider pumping in a quiet corner or in an empty gate, under a concealing blanket. If you are out in public like this, remember—you will never see any of these people again. Don’t fret and do what you got to do for your precious little one.
• Alternatively, you can pump in the bathroom. Most airports offer “family bathrooms” which are larger single rooms, suitable for bringing a stroller in with you. This option gives you more room and privacy.
• If you have the means, purchase a one-day pass to your airline’s VIP lounge. The bathrooms within are infinitely cleaner, more pleasant, and offer more privacy.
• If you are taking a longer trip, remember that storage standards for expressed milk state that breast milk can be stored at room temperature for up to 10 hours.[1] Should your travels take longer, make sure to label your milk and use the milk in chronological order.

*This blog is informed by our resident moms-in-the-know and not by medical professionals. This blog is intended to share the wisdom of experienced moms but never to replace the advice and insight of your doctors. Always consult proper and licensed medical professionals when making any decisions about your health and the health of your children. 

[1] http://www.lalecheleague.org