One of the most common challenges working moms face is continuing to breastfeed after returning to at work. Some women wonder if they can be successful at both their career and breastfeeding. The answer is simple: absolutely. Many women continue to breastfeed when returning to work by pumping extra milk at night, on the weekends and during the workday. All it takes is a little creativity and commitment. Pump and Save
- Try to pump as soon as possible after delivery.
- Introduce your child to the bottle 4-6 weeks postpartum.
- Freeze and store your milk for future use. Make sure to label the bag or container with the date the milk was pumped and the volume.
- Start storing several weeks before going back to work. If you start early, you only need to store an ounce or two a day to have a nice stockpile when you return to work. Also, storing this small amount will not create a huge overproduction of milk.
Find a Location
- If you have your own office, simply create a “Do not Disturb Sign” to hang on your door. Make sure to alert your co-workers so they understand to come back later.
- If you are desperate and need to pump, try doing it in your car. Many breast pump manufacturers offer car adaptors that easily run the machines.
- If you are interested in implementing your own lactation program and/or policy where you work please visit www.texasmotherfriendly.org – this site provides all the information necessary to begin a program at your worksite.
Storage
- Purchase a mini freezer or fridge to store the milk in your office. If you need to use a communal fridge, don’t forget to label. Find a pump to use at work that fits your needs. Most pumps are designed with the working moms in mind, made to appear as a briefcase, quiet and compact.
- Breast pads protect your clothes in case of leaking.
Following these helpful hints will allow you to achieve both your work and breastfeeding goals. Besides, nursing is a wonderful way to relax and bond with your baby after a hard day’s work.