Best of both worlds: working and breastfeeding

Getting your employer's help

If you plan to continue breastfeeding, talk with your employer to see what options you may have. Topics to discuss:

• Does your workplace allow flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs?
• Can you express your breastmilk during breaks or at lunchtime?
• Is there a breastfeeding center in the workplace?
• Is there a refrigerator available for storing breastmilk during the day?

Tips for transition to work

Returning to work and expressing milk takes a little organization and planning. Here are some tips for making the transition smoother:

• Establish a routine. If you’ve been feeding your baby on demand, establishing a regular feeding routine will help both you and your baby adjust more quickly.
• Start stockpiling. Begin expressing and freezing extra breastmilk about four weeks before returning to work. Try to pump two to four times a day between regular feedings.
  
  Proper storage of expressed breastmilk is very important. You can freeze extra breastmilk in disposable plastic bags designed for breastmilk, or opaque plastic (rather than glass) bottles. Store breastmilk in the back of your freezer compartment. The AAP recommends storing it in the freezer attached to your refrigerator for no longer than one month and in your deep-freeze for no longer than six months.
• Express regularly. If your breastfeeding is limited to time before and after work, try to express your breastmilk regularly throughout the day. If your employer asks you to make up the time, ask to work out a flexible schedule. At work, wear loose-fitting tops or two-piece outfits over a breastfeeding bra to make it easier to express breastmilk without removing clothing.
• Introduce the bottle. Occasionally offer your baby a bottle of expressed breastmilk so she will be accustomed to taking a bottle. Some babies take a bottle more easily when someone other than Mom offers it. Let Dad or another family member feed your baby. Whoever gives her the bottle should snuggle with her to maintain the close contact that she’s used to while breastfeeding.
• Find a place to express at work. Locate a quiet and clean environment at work where you can set up your pump, have a drink of water or juice, and relax for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Plan ahead for supplements. If you plan to supplement with infant formula, try also to introduce it before returning to work. This will be a new routine for both you and your baby, so remember to be patient.

Quick tip

Create an expressing supply kit. Use the case that came with your pump, a soft-sided briefcase or a small duffel bag that’s big enough to store all your breastfeeding supplies such as a breastpump, breastfeeding pads, and empty containers for breastmilk. This way everything will be in one place, easily accessible, and not overly conspicuous.