Returning to work after having a baby can be a challenging time for any new mother. But for mothers who choose to breastfeed, the thought of leaving their little one and managing their breastfeeding routine while at work can be particularly daunting. However, with the right preparation and support, it is possible to successfully breastfeed and work at the same time. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of breastfeeding, the challenges of returning to work while breastfeeding, and provide tips for successful breastfeeding and working.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies who are breastfed have a reduced risk of ear infections, respiratory illnesses, diarrhea, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). They also have a lower risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and asthma later in life.
For mothers, breastfeeding helps to stimulate the release of the hormone oxytocin, which promotes bonding with the baby and helps to reduce stress levels. It also helps to burn extra calories, aiding in postpartum weight loss. Women who breastfeed also have a lower risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, and type 2 diabetes.
In addition to these physical benefits, breastfeeding also has emotional and psychological benefits for both the mother and the baby. The close contact and skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding helps to strengthen the bond between mother and child. It can also help to soothe a fussy or colicky baby, providing a sense of comfort and security.
Challenges of Returning to Work While Breastfeeding
Returning to work after having a baby can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for many new mothers. When adding the challenge of maintaining a breastfeeding routine on top of that, it can seem nearly impossible. However, with some planning and support, it is possible to successfully breastfeed while working.
One of the biggest challenges for working mothers who are breastfeeding is finding the time and space to pump milk while at work. This can be especially difficult for those who have jobs where taking breaks is not always feasible, such as in retail or service industries. Pumping also requires a private space with an electrical outlet, which may not be available in all workplaces.
Another challenge is managing milk supply and making sure there is enough milk stored for the baby while the mother is at work. This can be particularly challenging for mothers who have a low milk supply or those who struggle with pumping enough milk during their work breaks.
The emotional toll of leaving a baby for the first time can also be a challenge for many working mothers. The separation anxiety and guilt that comes with leaving your child can make it difficult to focus on work and can impact your overall well-being.
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding and Working
Despite the challenges, many mothers successfully breastfeed while working. Here are some tips to help you navigate this journey:
Plan ahead
Before returning to work, take the time to plan out your breastfeeding routine and how it will fit into your work schedule. Start by mapping out your daily work schedule and identifying when you will need to pump. This will give you a better understanding of what type of support and accommodations you may need from your employer.
You should also consider having a back-up plan in case unexpected changes or delays occur in your work schedule. This could include having a stash of stored milk at home, or having a pumping session at the beginning of your day, before your workday officially starts.
Invest in a good breast pump
Having a high-quality electric breast pump can make all the difference in being able to maintain a healthy milk supply while working. When choosing a pump, look for one that is efficient, easy to use, and has different suction levels to mimic the natural suckling of a baby. It is also important to have extra parts, such as breast shields and valves, on hand in case they need to be replaced.
Practice pumping before returning to work
Before your first day back at work, practice pumping at home to get comfortable with the process. This will also give you an idea of how long it takes for you to pump and how much milk you can expect to produce during each session. This way, you can plan out your work breaks accordingly and make sure you have enough milk stored for your baby.
Find a private space to pump
Under federal law, employers are required to provide nursing mothers with a private space, other than a bathroom, to pump milk. However, not all employers may be aware of this or have an appropriate space available. Communicate with your employer ahead of time to ensure you have access to a designated room or area where you can comfortably and privately pump.
If your workplace does not have a designated lactation room, consider creating a portable pumping kit that includes everything you need to pump, such as a small cooler, wipes, and a manual pump.
Have a support system in place
Having a strong support system is crucial for breastfeeding and working mothers. Talk to your partner, family members, friends, and colleagues about your plans to breastfeed while working and how they can support you. This could include helping with household chores, providing emotional support, or even taking care of the baby during your work breaks so you can focus on pumping.
You can also look into joining support groups for working mothers who breastfeed, either in person or online. These groups can provide valuable tips and advice, as well as a sense of community and understanding.
Support Systems for Breastfeeding Mothers in the Workplace
While there are laws in place to protect the rights of nursing mothers in the workplace, many workplaces still do not have adequate accommodations and support for breastfeeding mothers. Here are some ways that employers can support their employees who are breastfeeding:
Provide a designated lactation room
Having a designated lactation room that is private and comfortable can make all the difference for working mothers who need to pump milk during their breaks. This room should have a comfortable chair, electrical outlet, and a small table or shelf to hold pumping supplies. It should also be equipped with a sink, soap, and paper towels for washing hands and cleaning pumping equipment.
Offer flexible work arrangements
Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or adjusted work schedules, can greatly benefit breastfeeding mothers. This allows them to have more control over their workday and may reduce the stress of trying to fit in pumping sessions during busy work hours.
Support breastfeeding breaks
Employers should allow for reasonable break times for mothers to pump during their workday. This could include providing longer break times or allowing for shorter, more frequent breaks to accommodate pumping sessions. Employers should also ensure that these breaks are uninterrupted and that nursing mothers are not penalized for taking them.
Educate and train supervisors and coworkers
Many people may not fully understand the needs of breastfeeding mothers in the workplace. Employers should provide education and training for supervisors and coworkers on the laws and policies surrounding breastfeeding at work. This will help to create a supportive and understanding environment for working mothers who are breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding and returning to work can be a challenging journey for many new mothers. However, with proper planning, support, and accommodations, it is possible to successfully breastfeed while working. By understanding your rights as a nursing mother in the workplace and having a strong support system in place, you can navigate this experience with confidence and maintain a healthy breastfeeding routine for both you and your baby.