At Work
Breastfeeding at work:
When you return to work, plan to get up a little earlier than usual to
allow time to breastfeed your baby before leaving for work. Many mothers
find they maintain milk production more easily if they breastfeed before
showering or getting ready for work and then breastfeed again just before
leaving the baby with the care provider.
If possible develop a pumping routine based on when the baby would
normally breastfeed, especially when first returning to work. However,
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 approximately the same time
each day.
Most mothers prefer to pump both breasts at once with a double
collection kit about every three hours, for 10 to15 minutes. Double
pumping minimizes pumping time, but the frequent sessions are needed to
"empty" the breasts for continued milk production and avoid any breast
discomfort. Pumping less frequently, even for longer than 15 minutes, does
not help maintain milk production as well. If unable to keep a regular
pumping schedule at work, expressing small amounts of milk during quick
bathroom breaks can help to maintain milk production better than going for
longer periods without expressing any milk.
Do not pump just prior to leaving work for home (unless you learn your
baby just ate a big meal). Plan to breastfeed your baby when you pick him
up at the care provider or as soon as you get home. Ask your care provider
not to feed the baby, or to limit the amount a hungry baby is fed, for one
to two hours before you arrive. This will ensure that he/she will still
want to breastfeed soon after your arrival. It may help to call the care
provider when you are ready to leave work so he/she knows 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 frequently in
the evenings and on weekends can help you better maintain milk production,
plus you and your baby will enjoy the time together after separation.
As your baby grows and solid food or other liquids are slowly added to
his/her diet, you may find you do not have to pump as frequently to keep
up with your older baby's current need for breast milk. However, deleting
pumping sessions should be done gradually, and one at a time. Once small
amounts of solid food are introduced, you may want the care provider to
offer it, so your baby continues to breastfeed more when with you. This
also may allow you to begin gradually extending the time between pumping
sessions.
Regardless of the actual time frame, 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 experience a decrease in milk
production the first week they return to work due to the stress and
changes in schedule. If this does occur, it should quickly resolve and
milk production should increase with frequent pumping sessions. Continue
to breastfeed your baby as often as possible when not at work.
Should you have any questions, problems, or concerns about preparing to
return to work when breastfeeding or at any time during the actual
transition, contact your physician or a certified lactation consultant
(IBCLC) for information, advice, and assistance.
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