Balancing Act: Returning to work while Breastfeeding
Returning to work after the birth of your child can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you're committed to giving your all to your breastfeeding journey. However, it is quite possible to balance both with a bit of planning and support, you can successfully navigate this transition. Finding a great way to express milk, a schedule and other essential steps in this blog will help you balance your career and breastfeeding journey more seamlessly.
FIND THE PERFECT BREAST PUMP FOR YOU
One of the first things you'll need to do when preparing to return to work is find the right breast pump for your needs. Electric breast pumps are a popular choice, offering efficiency and convenience. Here are a few factors to consider:
Double Electric Pump: These pumps allow you to express milk from both breasts simultaneously, cutting your pumping time in half. This is especially helpful during work breaks.
Portability: Look for a pump that's easy to transport, whether you're commuting or storing it at the office.
Customizable Settings: Some pumps offer adjustable suction and speed settings, which can mimic your baby's suckling patterns.
Battery vs. Plug-in: Consider whether you prefer a pump that operates on batteries or one that needs to be plugged in.
Remember, many insurance plans cover breast pumps, so be sure to check your policy for details.
GET THE RIGHT FIT WITH A LACTATION PROFESSIONAL
Once you've acquired your breast pump, it's crucial to ensure it's the right fit for you. Meeting with a lactation professional or consultant is an excellent idea. They can assist you in determining the correct flange size for your pump, which is essential for comfort and optimal milk extraction.
Comfort: Properly fitted flanges reduce the risk of nipple pain or damage during pumping sessions.
Efficiency: A good fit helps maximize milk output and prevents milk from being trapped in your breast.
Prevent Clogged Ducts: Ill-fitting flanges can lead to blocked milk ducts, which can be painful and hinder milk production.
CREATE A PUMPING SCHEDULE
To maintain your milk supply and successfully transition back to work, establish a pumping schedule that aligns with your work hours. Here's a basic guideline to get you started:
Before Work: Pump once in the morning before heading to the workplace. This mimics your baby's early morning feeding.
During Work: Plan to pump at least every 3-4 hours during your workday. Many employers provide designated pumping spaces to support working mothers.
After Work & During the Night: When you return home, nursing your baby or continuing with occasional pumping is great and a personal choice. Nursing your baby is great to reconnect and provide comfort. Adhering to a schedule helps maintain your milk supply and ensures that your baby has enough milk while you're away.
FIND A CARE PROVIDER WHO PRACTICES PACE BOTTLE FEEDING
One concern many breastfeeding moms have when returning to work is how their baby will adapt to bottle feeding. To make this transition smoother and avoid issues with nipple preference or overfeeding, find a care provider who practices pace bottle feeding or teach them if they are unsure.
Pace bottle feeding is a technique that mimics breastfeeding by:
- Holding the bottle horizontally, allowing the baby to suck and swallow at their own pace.
- Offering breaks during the feeding to mimic natural pauses in breastfeeding.
- Responding to hunger cues rather than encouraging the baby to finish the entire bottle.
This method ensures that your baby continues to associate feeding with comfort and connection, even when you're not there. It also allows your child to be an active participant in the feeding aspect. Learn more about pace feeding in our previous blog.
Balancing work and breastfeeding is indeed a challenge, but with the right tools and support, you can maintain a strong breastfeeding relationship with your baby while pursuing your career. Remember, every mother's journey is unique, so be patient with yourself and make adjustments as needed. You've got this, mama! See you soon at Innovations Family Wellness.