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| Returning to work after having a baby is a stressful time for so many mothers. Returning to work is a known obstacle for women to continue breastfeeding (especially in the absence of workplace facilities and support for breastfeeding). Acknowledging this, the American Academy of Pediatrics Policy statement now encourages employers to provide appropriate facilities and adequate time in the workplace for breast milk expression, and it also encourages childcare providers to support breastfeeding and the use of expressed breast milk provided by the parent. Companies have discovered that supporting breastfeeding not only benefits mother and child, but is also good for their bottom line. Breastfed babies are healthier, health costs are lower, and mothers take less personal time to tend to a sick child. Other employer benefits are improved employee morale and loyalty, increased productivity, reduced staff turnover, recruitment incentive and enhanced company image. Combining work and breastfeeding is a decision by which all can truly benefit. As an expectant mom, returning to work might be the furthest thing from your mind, but it’s never too early to think about a successful plan for continuing to feed your baby when you return to work. Take a realistic look at your work environment and do what you can to make the most of it. While there may be challenges, it’s worth it. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies breastfeed/be given breast milk exclusively until they are six months old and continue to receive breast milk until they are at least a year old. It’s best to approach your boss about pumping at work while you are still pregnant. If you’ve already given birth, broach the subject as soon as possible before returning to work. You’ll want to ask your employer about possible arrangements to meet your pumping needs – don’t be afraid to offer solutions that you think make sense. When you speak to your employer:
Secure a safe storage place for your breast milk at the office. Make sure there is a refrigerator for storing your breast milk in a discrete way that is not offensive to your co-workers. If you are storing in a community refrigerator, be sure to label your filled baby bottles and keep them in a sanitary, sealed bag. On the home front, as you get closer to your return-to-work date, begin offering bottles of breast milk to help your baby get used to bottle-feeding. Make sure you have enough storage bottles before you leave for work each day. The Mother’s Milk Mate BPA-free Bottle 6-Pack is the perfect accessory for breast-pumping at work! You’ll always have enough bottles! Make it a habit to check your bag each morning before you head off for work. Remember to bring your Mother’s Milk Mate BPA-free breast milk storage bottles with you to pump into. Also be sure to take a cooler with ice packs to take carry your pumped breast milk back home at night. Take care of your body. Going back to work adds additional stress and taps your already exhausted “new mommy” body. So be even more diligent about eating nutritiously and drinking plenty of water and fluids. Check your wardrobe. Two-piece outfits or clothes that fasten in front will be more convenient for working mothers who are pumping at work. Patterned washable clothing can hide wet areas if your milk leaks. You may need to temporarily wear breast shells or pads in your bra to manage the possible leakage of breast milk. Make sure to wear a nursing bra and tops that are designed especially for nursing mothers. Having chosen to continue to breastfeed once you’re back at work, you’ll need plenty of family and workplace support, an effective and efficient breast pump, and the best, easiest breast milk storage system and BPA-free baby bottles…Mother’s Milk Mate! Return to main FAQ page |
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