Working and Breastfeeding Made Simple: A Comprehensive Guide to Success

Balancing the demands of a career and the responsibilities of motherhood can be a daunting task, especially for breastfeeding mothers. However, with the right planning and support, it is possible to successfully work and breastfeed, ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.

Working and Breastfeeding Made Simple

by Nancy Mohrbacher

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4658 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	391 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

This comprehensive guide provides working mothers with essential information and strategies to help them navigate the challenges of breastfeeding while maintaining their professional obligations.

Preparing for Work

Before returning to work, it is important to take some time to prepare and plan for breastfeeding. This includes:

• Establishing a regular breastfeeding routine with your baby. This will help your baby adjust to feeding on a schedule that works for both of you.
• Building up a freezer stash of breast milk. This will provide you with a backup supply of milk to use when you are away from your baby.
• Discussing your breastfeeding plans with your employer. Let them know that you will be breastfeeding and inquire about any accommodations or support they can provide.
• Identifying a dedicated pumping location at work. This should be a private, comfortable place where you can express milk without interruptions.
• Purchasing the necessary equipment. This includes a breast pump, storage bags, and a cooler or insulated bag to transport your milk.

Breastfeeding at Work

Once you return to work, there are several strategies you can use to make breastfeeding successful.

• Pumping regularly. Aim to pump every 2-3 hours, or as often as your baby would typically breastfeed.
• Finding a private place to pump. If your workplace does not provide a dedicated lactation room, you may need to use a private office, bathroom, or conference room.
• Using a hands-free breast pump. This will allow you to continue working while you are pumping.
• Storing your breast milk properly. Freshly pumped breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
• Coordinating with your caregiver. If you are using a childcare provider, make sure to provide them with clear instructions on how to store and feed your baby your expressed milk.

Returning to Work

Returning to work after breastfeeding can be an emotional time for both mother and baby. Here are some tips to make the transition as smooth as possible:

• Start back to work gradually. If possible, start back working part-time or on a flexible schedule to give yourself time to adjust.
• Let your baby know that you will be returning to work. Spend extra time cuddling and breastfeeding your baby in the days leading up to your return to work.
• Stay in touch with your baby throughout the day. Call or video chat with your baby during your breaks to help them feel connected to you.
• Be patient and flexible. It may take some time for both you and your baby to adjust to breastfeeding while you are working.

Working and breastfeeding can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With the right planning and support, it is possible to successfully balance both roles and ensure the well-being of both mother and child. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can navigate the challenges and achieve success as a working breastfeeding mother.

Working and Breastfeeding Made Simple

by Nancy Mohrbacher

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4658 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	391 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE