Breastfeeding a baby is an ultimate recommendation for optimal health and well-being. The connection between mother and baby with the assurance of highly nutritious feeding is well-established by this method. Even healthcare organisations exclusively advised all mums to breastfeed babies for up to two years. But obviously, pressing circumstances can force mums to seek or go back to work.
Do you experience the same concern and wonder how to get it through with a boss? Is it possible to breastfeed at work?
If this is your first-hand experience, many questions can arise. Taking a breast pump to work may be a good option, and you might be confused about how to handle this situation appropriately. Let’s tackle this topic with the hope that this serves as a better guide.
#1. Know your legal rights
Set an appointment with your boss to ease worries and discuss this matter with him. Don’t be afraid to speak up and claim your rights as a breastfeeding mother. Knowing that companies are legally required to have a private place for expectant and breastfeeding mums. Request flexible working schedules that allow you to breastfeed your baby.
Also, be mindful that studies have shown there is no set age at which to wean your child; it can be more than two years of breastfeeding.
#2. Understand why to continue breastfeeding
Breastfeeding keeps your baby’s health at the full length of care. Your milk is packed with antibodies against pathogens. Yes, it is easy to end the breastfeeding period, but it’s quite heart-rending to see your baby’s health at risk. So, take a stand on breastfeeding until weaning time comeswhen your baby begins to appreciate solid foods.
With breastfeeding, the connection with your baby is also nurtured. Having your baby reconnecting and snuggling with you even if you’re back to work makes up the fundamental importance of breastfeeding most, especially.
#3. Explore the possibilities
Knowing what you should do as a mum, wherever the setting is, is important. When returning to work, here are some tips you can follow.
- Assess your status in relation to your company.
- Check if you can have flexible working hours, extended lunch breaks, or request a part-time job.
- See if the company’s management permits bringing your baby to the premises.
- Look for an alternative working schedule that fits your baby’s needs. Try to ask if it is possible to work on alternate weeks or days.
Check to see if expressing breast milk suits your working situation well. If it does, you must consider buying an electric breast pump to bridge the gaps of working away. Alternatively, find a better place nearby and a reliable babysitter who will look after your baby while you are at work.
How to express breast milk?
Generally, working mothers may express or pump milk every three to four hours. If milk leaks while you’re at work, press hard on your breast nipples for a few seconds. Do this by crossing your arms across your chest. Then, using your palms, press your nipple tightly with your fingers.
#4. Understand storing milk guidelines
Whether you are ready to get to work or not, this part of motherhood should not be displaced. You’ve got to know the proper way of storing milk.
- Store the expressed milk in small amounts and sterilise feeding bottles to prevent wastage.
- Do not freeze breast milk; it reduces the number of protective enzymes and antibodies in the fresh milk, although it remains more nutritious than formula.
- It is advisable to keep a stash in your refrigerator that is meant for storing milk between 6 to 12 months.
- Learn that milk that has just been expressed or pumped can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 hours and in the fridge for up to 4 days.
#5. Increase night-time nursing schedule
In many cases, most babies start breastfeeding at night in their first few weeks.
Night-time is favourable to stimulate milk production since more prolactin is produced at night. Although it can be tiring, it is best to maintain breastfeeding during this period. But, as a working mother who wants to sleep well at night, you can make this seemingly tricky adjustment work for you.
The best thing you can do is find a comfortable breastfeeding position. You may need to try a few of these:
Lie down horizontally to help your body relax even if you can’t sleep.
- Lie down horizontally to help your body relax even if you can’t sleep.
- Lie on your side with two pillows to support your head and the other between your knees to feel comfortable.
- Keep your baby’s position like yours, his nose at the level of your nipples. Use another pillow to bring him up to your nipples if needed.
- Share a room with your baby to monitor and prevent the occurrence of SIDS.
Conclusion
Motherhood is never easy, but such is a loving and rewarding journey with little, innocent ones reliant on you for nourishment, care, and protection. Thus, staying away from them because of work is a hefty moment of wise judgement. It is tough, but fighting for legal rights as a breastfeeding mum is definitely your one big step. Once in place, things can go smoothly for you, your baby, and the company.
Hey welcome to my blog . I am a modern women who love to share any tips on lifestyle, health, travel. Hope you join me in this journey!
Speak Your Mind