Breastfeeding is a unique process, due to each mother's experience and the time it requires. When the time comes for a mother to return to work, we'll have more dedicated time for this moment, which, a few months ago, was reserved for whenever the baby needed it.
We believe it's obvious that returning to work while breastfeeding is a major challenge. Furthermore, the months that mothers spend with their babies are extremely intense, with the daily symbiosis of being always by their side and the longing that comes with just thinking about these moments. All of this, coupled with the fatigue and stress that work routines can cause, will truly make you want to end breastfeeding.
Mothers, today we want to tell you that with determination, you will be able to continue breastfeeding. The key is to be very organized, to maintain this bond even stronger, so that continuing breastfeeding will be beneficial for both of you. To this end, we researched and learned a little more about the subject.
The first idea for better time management when your routine returns to work hours is to try a breast pump. They suggest starting two weeks before returning to work, replacing one feeding with a bottle of milk, starting every two days and then progressing to daily feedings. Adopting a breast pump should be supervised by a healthcare professional. If you're unable to use this tool, the quantity and rhythm of your milk can be adjusted, introducing infant formula only during the day and continuing with breastfeeding at night and in the morning.
Their advice is to start extracting breast milk at times of the day when you have excess milk (e.g., morning) or by setting times throughout the day. This way, you can have bottles of breast milk ready and ready for your baby's meals.
Another idea is to adjust your new daily routine to breastfeeding times. It's best to extract milk at night, as morning is the least likely time to do so. Bottles should be cared for and transported properlyin an insulated lunch box and refrigerated.
At work, according to the conditions negotiated with your boss, you should set aside time to express milk in a quiet, private place at regular intervals to avoid potential "surges." If your workplace is close to your baby's location, you can organize yourself and have the opportunity to breastfeed. In any case, you should maintain morning and/or evening feedings, as they are the true stress reliever.
In this way, the symbiotic relationship between mother and baby will gradually evolve into a new phase, equally intense, but open to the rest of the world.
Another important aspect is paying attention to the milk supply. If there's a stain or situation where the mother might get dirty, it's best to have a change of clothes ready for any eventuality. Additionally, having your breastfeeding accessories with you at all times is important, as any moment can be crucial and you may need to extract milk.
One last topic we've found crucial to this topic is the law regarding Parental Leave. These days, this leave has undergone changes, so we believe it's always a good idea to consult sources where all the information and guidelines are explained.
In today's post, packed with information, we realized that breastfeeding is something that needs to continue, at least during the recommended months and whenever the baby needs it. Therefore, we must believe that with determination and organization, the work and breastfeeding can be successful, but it will still be a challenge. Mothers out there, we believe you can do it!
What about you? Moms, how have you managed this new routine? Is there anything you'd like to highlight? We want to know your experience. We want to know your opinion.
