How to Continue Nursing While Going Back to Work

Going back to work after having a baby? Want to continue nursing? Here are some great tips on how to make this work for you, your baby and your employer

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A made up mind!

1. Make up your mind. Agree with your partner that this is what you want to do. Support is crucial here. A target time is also good. I suggest aim for 12 months, and then if you can do it for 4 months, 6 months or 8 months, so be it; but you tried.

2. Start pumping when your baby is about 6-8 weeks old. If your baby already is older, don't worry, just start now. It can take some getting use to with the bottle for your baby. Store at least 3 days of milk in the freezer.

3. Set up a call with your boss about one week prior to going back. Let him or her know about your plans regarding nursing. Ask if there is someone you need to talk to, e.g. HR or office manager to get you access to where you can pump. Many work places also have a pump for you to borrow. In my company all new moms were given a kit from Madela to use with the pump.

4. First day back - TAKE IT EASY. Pumping at work is not always easy. Bring a photo of your little one and a blanket from the crib. My lactation consultant suggested I imagine a waterfall; sounds crazy but it worked. Try to clear 30 min per session in the beginning, once you get used to it 10 min will be enough. Try to replicate your baby's feeding schedule. 9am, noon and 3pm are usually popular times at the nursing room in my office.

5. Be proud of every week you do this. You are doing what is best for you, your baby and also your employer.
   Good Luck!!

[sandhillkar]

on 2/4/2009 Excellent article! This will help a lot of new mothers!