The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Women everywhere are returning to work and successfully continuing to breastfeed. Advanced planning, family and workplace support, and a high-quality breast pump help create success for working moms. The longer babies are breastfed, the greater the health benefits for both mom and baby. Breastfeeding is good for your employer too – it reduces employees’ absence from work for baby’s illnesses.
Breastfeed often in the evenings and learn how to breastfeed lying down while you rest. Nighttime breastfeeding boosts your supply! Remember, pumping takes practice. If you only get a small amount of milk the first few times you pump, don’t worry. With practice and patience, you’ll soon be pumping more milk.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
For Baby
- Breastfed infants have fewer and shorter episodes of illness.
- Nutrition provided by breastmilk benefits your baby’s IQ.
- Helps the baby’s immune system mature.
- Increases effectiveness of immunizations.
- Fewer allergies.
- Perfect nutrition.
- Reduces the risk of obesity and hypertension.
- Protects against developing chronic diseases.
For Mom
- Just the right temperature and it is the healthiest choice at the least cost.
- Convenient and always ready for baby.
- Decreases risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
- Increases the rate of weight loss in most mothers.
- Breastfed babies are healthier, and mothers miss less work and spend less time and money on pediatric care.
- Reduces risk of diabetes, heart attack, high blood pressure, and stroke.
- Decreases risk of osteoporosis.
…there are many other benefits to breastfeeding.
Tips for Continued Successful Breastfeeding
- First Week of Work
- Going back to work can be overwhelming. Start slowly, if possible, by returning to work for only a half-day, or mid-week. It is normal to feel tired at first. On days off, nap with your baby, enjoy your time together and breastfeed often. Protect your milk supply by pumping often while away and breastfeeding when you are with your baby. Avoid having your breasts become overly full, as engorgement sends a signal to your body to slow down milk production.
- Pumping at Work
- The milk you pump at work one day may or can be used the next day to feed your baby. After pumping, cool your milk in a refrigerator or cooler. Store your milk in Medela’s BPA-free breastmilk collection bottles or storage bags specifically designed for breastmilk, such as Medela Pump & SaveTM bags. Freeze milk in 2-4 ounce containers and thaw when needed to use as a back-up supply. Use a cooler carrier with frozen ice packs to transport your milk from work or to your daycare provider.
