It's definitely possible to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. Here’s how to make it work.
Balancing work and breastfeeding
Moms who return to work three months after giving birth often breastfeed for 8-9 weeks less than those who stay at home. The main challenge isn’t the job itself but the time spent apart [1]. If possible, consider a shorter workday or working remotely part-time to help continue breastfeeding.
What if I work full time and remote is not an option?
Don't be discouraged if part-time or remote work isn’t possible. You can still breastfeed while working full-time. You'll need to pump and save the milk at work and have someone feed the baby with the pumped milk during the day.
In the U.S., federal law requires employers to provide break time for mothers to pump for one year after the child's birth. Employers must also provide a private place—other than a bathroom—for pumping [2].
Before you return to work, inform your manager that you will be pumping so they can provide the required space. Keep in mind that milk may be released more slowly in an uncomfortable environment [3].
How and when should I express milk?
You can express milk with your hands or a breast pump. Before you start, wash your hands with soap or use a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Disinfect the breast pump before use [4].
Aim for three pumping sessions per workday: shortly after arriving, during lunch break, and 1-2 hours before leaving. You can also express at home a couple of times to keep your milk supply up [5].
How much milk does the baby need in my absence?
Approximately 10-12 oz. This is about a third of what a baby typically drinks per day. The baby will get the rest in the morning and evening when you breastfeed. Your baby will adjust to your routine and get used to getting most of the calories during those times [5].
The babysitter doesn’t need to offer a bottle every time the baby cries or fidgets. When a baby is truly hungry, they clench their hands into fists, put them to their mouth, smack their lips, or lick them [6].
Will the milk that I will express at work spoil?
Yes, this can happen. At room temperature, milk is usable for only 4 hours. Store it in a refrigerator or cooler bag [4]. Date the bag when you fill it with milk. Use small containers or bags with a volume of 2 to 5 oz.
How long can milk be stored at home?
In the refrigerator, up to 4 days. Avoid placing bottles on the refrigerator door to prevent temperature fluctuations. If you won't use the milk within 4 days, freeze it. In the freezer, it's good for up to 6 months [4].
How to prepare frozen milk for consumption?
In the evening, take the oldest portion of milk from the freezer and put it in the refrigerator overnight. Thawed milk should be used within a day and cannot be re-frozen [4].
How to warm up cold or thawed milk?
Ideally, let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. If there’s no time, place the container under warm (not hot) running water. To check the temperature, drop a little milk on your wrist [4].
Photo: shutterstock
