A new lactation room at UCSF Parnassus Heights is making life easier for working parents, providing a comfortable and well-designed space for pumping.
The room was created with input from the Lactation Accommodation Program and Facilities Projects team to make sure it meets the needs of lactating parents.
“We didn’t just want to give them a basic room with a sink. We wanted to create a space where they could truly feel comfortable,” said Edward To, senior project manager.
Caroline Carter, who manages UCSF’s Lactation Program, explained why this new room was needed.
“There has been a growing demand for more lactation spaces on the west side of Parnassus,” she said. “Millberry Union was the only building without one since our program started in 2015.”
Now, parents who work in or pass through Millberry Union (MU) have a private, dedicated space for pumping.
“I think this new lactation room will have a significant, positive impact on working parents in the building," Carter said. "Instead of walking to the library, Ambulatory Care Center, or the Clinical Sciences Building, which takes up valuable break time, they now have a dedicated space nearby. This allows them to use their pumping breaks more efficiently—from preparing and expressing milk to cleaning up—so they can return to work without added stress."
Designed for Comfort and Ease
When designing the room, To and his team wanted to make sure it was both functional and relaxing.
“We wanted to create a space where parents could feel at ease and focus on their needs without stress,” he said.
Jamie DeAraujo, a UCSF employee and mom, got a first look at the space and was immediately impressed.
Oh my gosh! This room is so nice, and it has a sink right there. That’s a game-changer!” she said. “Cleaning is a huge part of pumping, and now I don’t have to go searching for a sink—it’s just right there.
The sink and faucet are made of copper, which is known for its antimicrobial properties.
“When germs land on copper, the metal naturally kills them,” To explained.
Jamie also loved the room’s calming atmosphere.
“It feels separate from the rest of campus. It’s quiet, which is so important, especially with all the construction at Parnassus,” she said. “Pumping breaks are my breaks, and this room actually lets me relax.”
She pointed to one of the chairs in the room and added, “I could totally see myself closing my eyes and unwinding while pumping in this chair!”
Thoughtful Features for Parents
The room was designed by TEF Design and UCSF stakeholders to align with UCSF’s colors and aesthetics. Designer Maryam Rostami shared that they used natural colors and materials to make the space feel peaceful.
“The watercolor wall covering gives a ‘cloud-like’ feel to the space,” she said. “We wanted to create a small sanctuary within Millberry Union.”
In addition to the sink, the room has several features to make pumping easier and more hygienic:
- Hand Dryer + Air Purifier – This high-tech dryer also purifies the air, improving hygiene in the space.
- Automatic Door Openers – These help employees who may have carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition among nursing parents.
- Comfortable Seating – The furniture was chosen to support pumping parents, with extra seating for those who bring a young child.
How to Access the Lactation Room
The lactation room is located on the B1 Level of Millberry Union, near the ATM machines and Subway. UCSF employees and learners can sign up for access through the UCSF Lactation Program, which grants badge entry and keypad codes.
The room is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A scheduling screen outside the door allows users to reserve a 30-minute break by simply tapping the screen and selecting the time before entering. This helps the next person know when the room will be available.
For visitors without a UCSF badge, a key fob will be available for checkout at the Millberry Fitness Center front desk. A check-out process is currently in development, and updates will be posted on the Lactation Accommodation Program website.
With its thoughtful design and useful features, UCSF’s lactation room is helping make the workplace more welcoming and inclusive for parents. UCSF is also planning to add more lactation rooms in future buildings and renovations to continue meeting the needs of its community.
Supervisors and managers play a key role in supporting lactating employees and students. For guidance on best practices and workplace accommodations, visit the Toolkit for Workplace Lactation Support.
Watch: Jamie’s First Look at the New Lactation Room
Jamie DeAraujo shares her first reaction to the new lactation room at Millberry Union. From the convenience of having a sink in the room to the calm, welcoming atmosphere, hear why she believes this space will make a big difference for parents like her.
