Top 5 Returning To Work Tips
Returning to work after maternity leave often comes with a mixed bag of emotions. Some are eager to return to a routine, adult conversation and feeling like oneself again, while others struggle to be present and focused and just want to be back home with baby. For most, it’s a combination of the two. If you are returning to work outside the home here are my top 5 tips to make the transition more manageable:
1. Introduce a bottle of expressed milk early
Returning to work has its own challenges, bottle refusal is not one you want to add to the mix. Once breastfeeding is well established and milk is fully in, within the first 2-3 weeks it is important to introduce a bottle and continue to use this feeding method for a feed at least every few days or so. This seems to be the window in which babies are most receptive to alternate feeding methods. Delaying introduction may cause bottle refusal.
2. Begin pumping early on
A frequent question is when is the best time to start pumping. My answer is usually whenever you feel that it something you can comfortably add to your routine. For some that is within the first week, for others it is two weeks out. There is no need to pump after every feeding (unless you are being followed by a lactation consultant for low supply risk factors). Best way to build up a healthy freezer stash is to pump once or twice a day consistently at the same time every day. Early morning and middle of the night pumping sessions usually yield the most milk. Don’t be concerned if you only get out a small amount the first few days, it often takes 3-4 days for your body to recognize the increased demand for milk.
3. Find a supportive caregiver you trust
Caregivers can make or break a breastfeeding relationship. Over feeding, refusing to use paced feedings, improperly heating if expressed milk and propping bottles can all be detrimental to a continued breastfeeding relationship. Asking questions about a prospective caregiver about their experience with breasted babies can help you make a decision that is right for your family.
4. Pack a pump bag and do a test run
Load up your pump bag like you are going to be at work and use it for a week or two ahead of time. This allows you to recognize if there are items that would make your pumping at work easier. This way you can have a well stocked and functional pump bag when you return to work. A list of suggested items to keep in your pump bag can be found here.
5. Plan out your pumps at work
Discuss with your employer where and when you expect to be pumping. This looks different for everybody. Many states have laws that protect a mother’s right to breaks for pumping (Louisiana Breastfeeding Laws). Communication ahead of time about expectations can help. Plan to not not go more than 4 hours between milk removal sessions.
Bonus tips:
Bring a non-electric option as a backup
Buy extra parts
Record a video of baby showing hunger cues and latching on to watch when pumping to help with letdown
Get fitted by a lactation consultant for proper flange size and purchase inserts or larger flanges as needed
Hands free options are helpful
Give yourself some grace, being a working parent is hard
For more guidance in the return to work and for a personalized consultation and comprehensive plan of care, contact us below!