Breastfeeding: Essential to Staying Close to Baby When Returning to Work

Breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby. It's free, it's portable, and it's what nature intended. And it's also one of the best things you can do to stay close to your baby when you go back to work. At first it might seem like a chore, but I can assure you, with a little start-up and good planning, it will seem like second nature in no time at all. The benefits are amazing and there is nothing like the relief you feel when you pick up your baby from your caregiver and immediately reconnect in this beautiful, perfect act.

In addition, you return to your pre-baby weight much quicker, and the energy boost you get is nothing short of miraculous:

"I'm still nursing, and I think it gives you superhuman powers."
-Gwen Stephani (of nursing six-month old Kingston, in 2006, just prior to her solo debut album)

Breastfeeding Help

The thought of breastfeeding at work still got you feeling overwhelmed? Totally normal. Rest assured - there are countless sources of support out there! The book that helped me the most was, "Nursing Mother, Working Mother," by Gale Pryor. This book is the holy grail for nursing moms going back to work. You could also join a support group like La Leche League or find a mom's support group on-line, like MamaSource. MamaSource is great to find other working moms happy to give you support and advice.

La Leche League
Mama Source

Breastfeeding Basics

Here are the basics, but check out the schedule page to better understand how to feed your baby and maintain your milk supply:

•Co-Sleeping - while it is extremely controversial, it is essential for staying close to your baby and making sure your milk supply is adequate while you work during the day. Your best milk is provided during the nighttime hours.

•Appropriate Clothing - You should already have a good nursing bra that is easy to access. Just be sure your clothes won't prohibit you from pumping.

•Stay Rested - get enough sleep and ask for help when you are feeling tired. Without proper rest, your milk supply will suffer.

•Consistent Schedule In the waking hours, you'll need to use your breastpump, or feed baby every three hours. You may need to get up early and pump first thing, before baby is fed in order to stimulate more supply. I often did this to top off the milk I produced from work the day before.

•Stay Hydrated and Nourished - Keep water at your desk and drink it all day long. Keep nuts or healthy snacks nearby as well. Eat plenty of vegetables and healthy foods. Drinking Fennel tea is really good at helping bolster your milk supply

Return to Homepage

footer for Breastfeeding page