Today, when I went to pump for the second time, the "lounge" where I usually get my privacy was being occupied. Inside of this room is a table as well as a "bed" where employees are supposed to be able to go if they need a nap or aren't feeling well. I think its used more as a nap room because this is the third time since I've begun pumping that it's been occupied when I needed it.
Frustrated, I went to go sit in the chair that is kept in the handicapped stale in our bathroom. The bathroom has very little light, is cold, has no table for me to set the pump and is generally not the most sanitary place for me to be pumping the life-sustaining fluid that I feed to the most precious thing in my life right now. Since this is the third time, I decided to make some calls to see what my other options are when the lounge is being occupied for napping.
After talking to three different people I found two different rooms that are not often used but are technically conference rooms, and I was also offered my department directors office. I'm happy to know I have options, but I still put it to our Ambassador's Group (a group of reps from each department that meet monthly with management to discuss employee concerns) to see if we could find a permanent solution. I may be the only pumping mother at my work now, but who's to say it'll stay that way? One other woman gave birth during April, another gave birth this month and a third is due any day.
Well see that happens.