Preparing for Breastfeeding and Work

Breastfeeding is a crucial stage in a child’s development, offering significant health benefits. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond. But what happens when you need to resume work? Here are some breastfeeding and work tips to guide you through this transition.

Planning Your Return to Work

Before you return to work, it’s important to establish a breastfeeding routine. Get your baby used to a feeding schedule that complements your work hours. Consider these steps:

• Breastfeed your baby in the morning before work, during your lunch break, and after work.
• Practice expressing milk and get your baby accustomed to a bottle. This can help maintain your milk supply when you’re at work.
• Discuss your needs with your employer. Share your pumping schedule and request a private space to express milk.

Managing Milk Supply

Maintaining a steady milk supply while working can be challenging. However, this is an achievable goal with the right strategies and commitment. Check out these tips on managing milk supply:

• Try to pump at the same times you would normally feed your baby.
• Store expressed milk in the fridge or a cooler bag to feed your baby when you’re away. Follow safe storage guidelines.
• Stay hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet to maintain your milk production.

Pumping at Work

Pumping at work might feel awkward initially, but remember that you’re doing it for your child’s well-being. Here are some tips to make pumping at work easier:

• Invest in a good-quality, portable breast pump.
• Ensure you have a private and comfortable place to pump at your workplace.
• Keep all necessary pumping accessories at your workplace to avoid forgetting them at home.

Staying Committed

Breastfeeding your baby while managing work can be overwhelming, but remember, it’s temporary. Your commitment will yield long-term benefits for your baby’s health and development. Here are a few suggestions to stay committed:

• Seek support from your co-workers and family.
• Refer to credible sources such as Healthy Children for helpful breastfeeding and work tips.
• Take care of your physical health. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine and ensure you get enough rest.

Remember, every mother’s experience of balancing breastfeeding and work is unique. What works for one may not work for another. The key is to find what suits you and your baby best, and be patient with yourself during this transition.

Exploring Legal Rights and Protections

Returning to work while still breastfeeding can be a challenge, but did you know that there are legal protections in place to support you? Here’s a brief overview of your rights:

• Mother-friendly workplace laws: Depending on where you live, there are certain laws in place to protect breastfeeding mothers at work. For example, under the Affordable Care Act, companies in the U.S. with more than 50 employees are required to provide break time and a private, non-bathroom place for breastfeeding employees to express milk. It’s best to understand the specific laws in your region before returning to work.
• Protection against discrimination: In many places, laws have been set to protect breastfeeding mothers from discrimination at work. This means that you cannot be treated unfairly because you are breastfeeding.
• Work accommodations: Employers may be legally obligated to provide suitable accommodation to breastfeeding mothers, including breaks for expressing milk and storing breast milk.

Navigating the Emotional Journey

Returning to work while breastfeeding is not just about practicalities – it’s an emotional journey as well. The changes can be overwhelming, but these tips can help make the transition smoother.

• Prepare mentally: Going back to work is a significant change for both you and your baby. It’s important to prepare mentally for these changes. Take some time each day to center yourself and reflect on these changes. This can be through meditation, yoga or other forms of relaxation exercises.
• Look for support groups: Connecting with other breastfeeding moms can be incredibly helpful during this time. They are going through the same experiences and can offer practical advice, reassurance, and encouragement. Organizations like Cleveland Clinic offer breastfeeding classes and support groups for new moms.
• Celebrate your success: Remember, every bit of breast milk your baby receives has health benefits. So, even if you can’t breastfeed as often as you would like, know that you are doing a fantastic job.

Expert Consultation

Balancing breastfeeding with work is difficult, and there may be times when you might need professional help. Many healthcare providers can offer support and guidance during this period.

• Lactation consultants: Consider seeking the services of a lactation consultant. These professionals can provide expert advice on breastfeeding while working, addressing issues such as managing milk supply, effective pumping, and more.
• Pediatrician: Stay in close contact with your baby’s pediatrician. They can help monitor your baby’s growth and development and provide advice on how to manage feeding while you’re at work.
• Dietician: A registered dietitian can provide helpful nutrition advice to ensure both you, and your baby is getting the necessary nutrition during this period.

Importance of Selfcare

Looking after a newborn while juggling work can lead to stress and tiredness. This makes it vital for you to make self-care a priority. You’re no good to anyone, including your baby, if you’re running on empty. So, make sure to:

• Get enough sleep: Your quality of sleep might take a hit during this period. Try to maximize your rest when the baby sleeps and consider power naps during the day.
• Eat healthily: Maintaining a balanced diet is important for your health and well-being. A well-nourished body can cope better with the demands of breastfeeding and work.
• Ask for help: Enlist the help of your partner, family members, or hire a caretaker if possible. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and engage in some ‘me’ time.

While challenging, many mothers have successfully navigated the delicate seesaw of breastfeeding and work. Trust in yourself, in your body, and in your baby as you chart this path uniquely yours.