Mothers At Work

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Breastfeeding Challenges

Time and Commitment

During the first few weeks of your baby's life, you will need to breastfeed frequently—approximately eight to 12 times in a 24-hour period—in order to satisfy your baby's hunger and maintain your milk supply. Generally, this equates to breastfeeding every two to three hours for approximately 10 to 15 minutes per breast, or 20 to 30 minutes total. Initially, you may not be able to be away from your baby for an extended period of time or sleep through the night, but by making a few accommodations, you and your baby should fall into a comfortable breastfeeding relationship.

Begin by asking friends and family members—or hire a caregiver—to help out with chores and other responsibilities (e.g., cooking, cleaning, caring for other children, etc.). Try to get some rest by sleeping when your baby does, even during the day, and consider keeping the baby's bassinet and/or crib in your bedroom or nearby for late-night or early-morning feedings. In addition, wear clothing that makes breastfeeding easier (e.g., pajamas, tops and blouses that open in the front or pull up from the bottom), especially if you need to breastfeed your baby away from the privacy of your home.

After approximately four weeks of breastfeeding, you may want to express your breast milk using a pump so others can feed your baby breast milk from a bottle on occasion. Introducing a bottle before this time can confuse your baby, and subsequently disrupt your breastfeeding schedule and/or milk supply.

Pumps can be rented or purchased from hospitals, rental stations, baby stores or health care providers. (Instructions for use will be included.)

Feedings will decrease as your infant grows older and, gradually, you should fall into a routine that allows you more time and flexibility. In fact, with continued commitment, you can adapt breastfeeding to meet most scheduling demands. Today, for example, many breastfeeding mothers are returning to work.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.