Returning to work after maternity leave can be a stressful time,
especially when you want to continue breastfeeding. Between managing feedings,
the organization of the days and the professional rhythm, it is natural to ask oneself
questions. Fortunately, with good preparation and a few tips,
It is entirely possible to combine breastfeeding and work. Here are our tips for
achieve this smoothly.
1. Prepare yourself before the restart
The key to a successful transition is good organization:
● Anticipate your return:
Beforehand, find out about your rights regarding breastfeeding at work. The Labor Code provides for breaks dedicated to breastfeeding. You are entitled to one hour per day to breastfeed or express your milk (usually divided into two 30-minute breaks).
● Familiarize yourself with the breast pump:
If you are not used to it, start using a breast pump a few weeks before resuming. This will allow you to feel comfortable and identify the most suitable model.
● Build up a reserve of breast milk:
You can start pumping your milk and storing it in the freezer. This will give you peace of mind in the first few days.
2. Organize with your employer
Discussing your needs with your employer is essential to balancing work
and breastfeeding:
● Arrange your schedule:
If possible, opt for more flexible hours or part-time work at first to ease the transition.
● Identify a space to express your milk:
Your company must provide you with a private space to breastfeed or pump, other than a bathroom. This could be a break room or a quiet office.
● Plan your breaks:
Make pumping breaks part of your work routine to avoid engorgement and maintain your lactation.
3. Manage feedings and pumping
Maintaining your milk supply is essential when you return to work.
Here are some tips:
● Keep morning and evening feedings:
These moments are precious for you and your baby. They promote closeness while stimulating lactation.
● Express your milk during the day:
If your baby is looked after by a nursery or childminder, express your milk once or twice a day, ideally at the same times as your usual feeds.
● Store your milk correctly:
Store expressed milk in bottles or suitable bags, in the refrigerator (4°C) for 4 days or in the freezer for several months. Label each container with the date of expression.
4. Choose the right childcare method
The choice of childcare method plays a key role in the success of breastfeeding:
● Inform the person looking after the baby:
Explain your needs and how to store and give breast milk. It is important that she knows how to heat the milk gently (in a bain-marie or at room temperature, never in the microwave).
● Test gently:
A few days before returning to work, leave your baby with you for short periods to get him used to your absence and to the bottle of breast milk.
5. Take care of yourself
Returning to work, combined with breastfeeding, can be tiring. Consider
take care of your well-being to avoid stress and exhaustion:
● Hydrate yourself and eat a balanced diet:
A good diet promotes sufficient milk production and maintains your energy.
● Rest as much as possible:
Take advantage of the times when your baby is sleeping to rest. Even short naps can make a difference.
● Listen to your body:
If you experience signs of fatigue or engorgement, adjust your pace or consult a midwife for appropriate advice.
6. Accept imperfections
Returning to work while continuing to breastfeed is a great step,
but it is important to remain kind to yourself. If some
days are more complicated or if your milk production fluctuates, it is not
serious. There is no perfect solution, only the one that suits you.
and your baby.
Mixed breastfeeding (alternating between breast milk and formula) can also be
an option if you feel that pumping at work is becoming too much of a hassle.
The key is to find a balance that brings you serenity and comfort.
Conclusion :
Breastfeeding and working, it’s possible!
Reconciling returning to work and breastfeeding requires organization and
communication and a good dose of kindness. By anticipating your needs and
by surrounding yourself with the right resources (employer, childcare, tools
adapted), you can continue this wonderful milky adventure with peace of mind.
Remember that every drop of breast milk is precious for your baby,
regardless of how long you have been breastfeeding.
Milkyhour is here to support you at every stage of your parenting journey
with practical and caring advice. If you have managed to reconcile work
and breastfeeding, share your tips in the comments to help other moms
to take this step!