Articles

Breastfeeding and Working

Preparing to Return to Work

Today, many breastfeeding mothers are successfully returning to work while continuing to breastfeed. With a bit of advance planning, and commitment, you too can easily make the transition. Fortunately, more and more employers are instituting company-sponsored support in the form of prenatal education, postnatal counseling and/or workplace lactation programs—programs that provide employees with various support services that enable a woman to breastfeed and/or pump breast milk while at work. Ask your employer or benefits manager if your company offers any supportive services. If no formal arrangements are in place, discuss alternative arrangements. Some mothers coordinate with a caregiver or care facility (by either having the baby brought to them, or by traveling to the child care facility) so they can breastfeed their babies during the work day. Others pump their breast milk at work and store it for the baby's use later. Still others find a combination of both works best.

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.

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