Working and breastfeeding

Working and breastfeeding at the same time can be a real challenge for most new moms. Fortunately, there are several suggestions that you can use to help you overcome this new way of life. The most important steps in working and breastfeeding will be to speak with your boss, purchase the right equipment, and know what to do your first week back to work.

It might be embarrassing to talk about working and breastfeeding with your boss (unless she’s a woman), but it will have to be done at some point. You need to make it clear to your boss that working and breastfeeding are not only in your baby’s best interest, but also in the company’s best interest as it will mean less paid time away for the mother.

You should also make it clear about what you will need to breast pump at work. You will need a private comfortable room to breast pump in, such as your office or a conference room. You will also need to schedule three 20 minute breaks to breast pump. Some women take a little more time and some less, all depending on the women. Some corporations have a policy that allows this to be paid time. You will also want to get a supportive company lactation policy in writing or at least a direct agreement with your supervisor.

Next, when working and breastfeeding, you will want to purchase the right equipment. If you want something light and fast, you can look at manual double pumps. If sound is not an issue, then you can use an electric pump. If you want to be as discreet as possible, but still need to be fast, there are many electric pumps on the market that are quiet and quick. Do your research, as most women will require something different.

Some ideas you can incorporate into your first week back are to start with a practice day. Prepare as if you were going to work, leave your baby ½ a day with your care provider, and then go back home and schedule your time as if you were really working. This helps you to figure out how much your baby will drink, if you are wearing correct clothing, and if you need to adjust your schedule.

When you start your first week back, try to work only 2 or three days. This will give you time to get used to working a full day and scheduling correct breast pumping breaks without the thought of a whole 5 days ahead. This makes the transition from stay-at-home mom to career mom a whole lot easier. Plan what you need to take and pack it the night before. That way, on your first day back, you won’t feel anxious, worried, and nervous, but fully prepared to take on the job ahead. With a little time, working and breastfeeding will come as naturally as the job of being a mom.

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