Returning to Work after Maternity Leave

The goal is to continue breastfeeding on demand when you are with your baby, and to pump and store a small supply of frozen milk ready for when you need it. Remember, you only need to have milk for your first day back at work stored, as you will be pumping each day at work to provide milk for the next day. Having more in your freezer is nice but not a necessity.

1. Breastfeed often to protect your milk production. 
2. When your baby is 2-3 weeks old or when breastfeeding is well established, you can begin pumping after 1 or2 breastfeeding sessions per day for 15 minutes. This is in addition to breastfeeding on demand. The milk can be stored in your freezer for later use. 
3. Store the milk in meal-sized portions, usually 2-3 ounces. It can be helpful to save some smaller 1 ounce portions. Storing your breastmilk in smaller portions reduces the likelihood that milk is discarded after it’s thawed.
   Follow breastmilk storage guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control. 
4. Talk to your employer about where and when you will pump when you return to work. There are laws protecting your right to pump and provide breastmilk for your baby while working. Most work environments have a plan in place for new parents. 
5. Try a practice run where you leave your baby with a caregiver who will feed your baby a bottle of breastmilk. Introducing a bottle around weeks 3-4 and continue to offer “reminder” bottles a few times a week. This can make returning to work less stressful for you and your baby.
6. Make sure that you are using the most appropriate breastpump for what you need. A double electric breastpump is most appropriate for frequent pumping. Some parents find that a rented hospital grade pump is needed for better breast stimulation.