Breastfeeding When Returning to Work

With a little planning, you will be
able to keep breastfeeding when you go back to work. Many mothers find they maintain
milk
production more easily if they breastfeed before showering or getting ready for work.
Then
they breastfeed again just before leaving the baby with the care provider. Read on
for some
more helpful tips below.

A new routine

If possible, create a pumping
routine based on when your baby would normally breastfeed, especially when first
returning to work. But you, your baby, and your milk production will adjust to a new
routine if you are able to pump often enough. Many mothers do find pumping sessions
go
more quickly when they are able to pump at about the same time each day.

Double pumping

Most mothers prefer to pump both
breasts at once with a double collection kit about every 3 hours, for 10 to 15
minutes. Double pumping reduces pumping time. But frequent sessions are needed to
empty the breasts for continued milk production. Pumping frequently can also help
you
to not have any breast discomfort. Pumping less often, even for longer than 15
minutes, doesn’t help maintain milk production for the long term. It may be hard for
you to keep a regular pumping schedule at work. If that’s the case, then try
expressing small amounts of milk during quick bathroom breaks. This can help maintain
your milk production better than going for longer periods without expressing any
milk.

Making time to breastfeed

Plan to breastfeed your baby as
soon as you are back together. Ask your care provider to try not to feed your baby
for 1 to 2 hours before you arrive. It may help to call the care provider when you
are ready to leave work, so they know when you are on your way.

You may need to arrange your evening schedule so you can spend more time with your
baby when you get home. Breastfeeding more often in the evenings and on weekends can
help you better maintain milk production. You and your baby will also enjoy the time
together after having been apart.

Solid foods

As solid foods are added to your
baby’s diet, you may find you don’t have to pump as often. Slowly lessen your pumping
sessions. You may want the care provider to offer the solid foods, so your baby keeps
breastfeeding more when they are with you. This also may allow you to begin slowly
extending the time between your pumping sessions.

Adjusting to change

The first few days or weeks
after you return to work may be difficult until you and your baby develop a new
routine. You can expect a period of adjustment as your body and your baby respond
to
the change. Some mothers produce less milk the first week they return to work, due
to the stress and changes in schedule. If this does occur, your milk production
should increase with frequent pumping sessions. Keep breastfeeding your baby as often
as possible when not at work.

Contact your healthcare provider or a certified lactation consultant for information,
advice, and help about breastfeeding.