Breastfeeding and returning to work: A practical guide for working moms!
Returning to work after maternity leave is an important step for young mothers, and many want to continue breastfeeding while taking on their professional responsibilities. Here's some practical advice on how to reconcile breastfeeding and returning to work with peace of mind.
Anticipating and organizing the transition between breastfeeding and returning to work
Preparing baby and childcare
A few weeks before you go back to work, gradually get your baby used to taking milk other than at the breast (bottle, sippy cup, spoon). Try this out with your baby-sitter to ensure a smooth transition.
Create a milk reserve
If you wish to express your milk, start building up a small reserve about 2 to 3 weeks before you wish to resume. Freeze the portions in suitable bags, indicating the date for easy management.
Organize the return to work and breastfeeding... or the extraction of milk
Pumping milk at work
In France, breast-feeding mothers are entitled by law to a one-hour daily breast-feeding break until their child is 12 months old. Find out about the conditions at your workplace, and find a quiet place to express your milk.
Choosing the right equipment
A good breast pump is essential! Choose an efficient, portable electric model. You'll also need airtight containers for storing milk, and an insulated bag for transport.
Adapting breastfeeding to the return to work
Breastfeeding on demand outside working hours
Mornings, evenings, nights and weekends, continue to breastfeed your baby whenever you're together. This helps maintain lactation and preserve that unique bond.
Managing a possible drop in lactation
If you notice a drop in your milk production, drink plenty of water, rest as soon as possible and encourage galactogenic foods (fennel, almonds, brewer's yeast...).
Listening and adapting: breastfeeding after returning to work is a personal choice
Every mother and baby is different. Some moms will continue exclusive breastfeeding, others will alternate with infant milk. There are no hard and fast rules: the most important thing is to find a balance that suits you.
It's perfectly possible to continue breastfeeding after maternity leave, with a little forethought and good organization. It's important to listen to yourself and adapt to your own rhythm and that of your baby.
And you, do you have any tips to share for breastfeeding after returning to work? 💛
We've got one more, just for you: wearing nursing clothes ! Made from comfortable, stretchy fabrics, they adapt to your body shape, and feature discreet openings for easy access to your breasts, whether you're breastfeeding or pumping.
23 Mai Paris offers a range of nursing garments perfectly suited to professional environments, in particular our nursing shirtsthat will blend into your wardrobe as if they had always been part of it!
If you are breastfeeding, here are some of our nursing clothes that may interest you:
Breastfeeding t-shirts
Breastfeeding sweaters
Breastfeeding tank tops
Breastfeeding dresses
Breastfeeding pyjamas
