2 March 2022The time has finally come — you’re on your last stretch of maternity leave, and soon you’ll be heading back to work. If you’re feeling worried about the upcoming transition back to working life, you’re not alone. One of the most common concerns for nursing mums is maintaining their milk supply and caring for their little one, all while being away for most of the day.
While it’ll be slightly easier for mums who can work from home, being a breastfeeding mum shouldn’t stop you from going back to the office. Sure, it will take some adjustment, but hey — as a mum, you’re already a superwoman in our eyes, and a pro at overcoming any challenge that comes your way.
The last thing you want to do is return unprepared, so read on for our back-to-work checklist of things to do!
1. Stock Up on Pumping Supplies
If you haven’t already purchased a breast pump, make sure you pick up a reliable one well before your back-to-work start date. There are many types of breast pumps available, which mainly consist of manual, electric, and battery-powered pumps.
We’d recommend getting a portable, hands-free pump, so it is easier to carry around. Don’t forget to purchase plenty of milk storage bottles or bags and accessories like extra flanges, tubing, and breast shields as well.
2. Practice Pumping
Once you’ve gotten a breast pump, it’s crucial to know just how to use it effectively. Begin practising pumping about 2-4 weeks before returning to work. Doing so not only lets you get accustomed to the equipment, but also encourages good milk production and builds your confidence in expressing milk and pumping.
3. Kickstart a Pumping and Feeding Routine
Establish a pumping routine by pumping every three hours or so to prepare your body. The added advantage of starting a pumping schedule ahead of time? It lets you build up your stash of breastmilk in the freezer, which could come in handy as your backup supply. A stockpile of about 3-5 days worth of milk should do.
It’s also a good idea to get baby started with bottle-feeding for them to get used to being fed by someone other than you — ideally the caregiver(s) you plan to entrust your little one to while you’re away.
4. Pack Your Back-to-Work Bag
Returning to work as a breastfeeding mum means having to bring a lot more than usual with you to the office. Check out our blog on 8 Breastfeeding Essentials For Your Back-to-Work Bag to find out the important things you’ll need.
Apart from pumping supplies, you’d want to have yummy, nutritious snacks in your work bag to keep you energised throughout the day. Get the best of both worlds by packing some lactation-boosting treats from Marian’s Lactation Boost! The specially curated Back to Work bundle comes with tons of food for lactating mothers to increase breast milk — from delicious premium lactation cookies to lactation tea and granola at a discount.
5. Check With Your Workplace on Where You Can Pump
A clean, quiet, and private space can make pumping at work a more pleasant experience. Reach out to your boss or HR ahead of time to find out whether there’s a place for you to pump in peace, and what you can expect for your first week back at work.
7. Nourish your body and mind
This transitional period where you’re away from dear baby and adjusting to work responsibilities can be a stressful time. Amidst the preparations for returning to work, it is equally important to take care of your physical and mental health by practising self-care.
Why not treat yourself to a big bowl of lactation ice cream? We are the first in Singapore to introduce artisanal lactation ice cream, made with all-natural ingredients that help build your supply and thicken your milk considerably. Pair that with some lactation cookies or lactation cold-pressed juice, and you have yourself a lovely afternoon treat.
Your breastfeeding journey ahead as a working mummy might be challenging, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Join our exclusive Lactation Recipe and Breastfeeding Sharing Facebook group and connect with a supportive community of breastfeeding mummies today!
