Return to Work Guide for Pumping Mums

So, you're planning on going back to work because, well, hello money! (as much as staying home forever with your babe would be a dream) and you have no idea where to start but want to continue breast feeding your baby.

Returning to work as a breastfeeding mother can be challenging, but with proper planning and support, you can continue to provide breast milk for your baby while balancing your work responsibilities. Let's make sure it's as easy as possible!

BUT OH MY HERE'S OUR BIGGEST TIP FROM US TO YOU! 

Introducing a bottle with pumped milk a while before you return to work will help your baby get used to different feeding methods. Getting your baby accustomed to bottle-feeding with pumped milk well before your return to work is super important so you're not hit with that last minute stress and feeding refusal. This can make the transition smoother and less stressful for both you and your baby!

It's important to allow ample time for adjustment. Many mums make the mistake of waiting until the last minute, which can lead to unexpected issues. Starting early gives your baby time to get used to different feeding methods, ensures consistent nutrition, and allows you to find the right bottle and nipple type. Regular and patient practice, rather than sporadic attempts, is key to success. By avoiding this common pitfall, you can ensure a seamless return to work while maintaining your breastfeeding goals. 

We've learnt this lesson the hard way and we wish someone had told us this tip so we could have avoided the challenges that came as a result.

And now for the rest of the important stuff!

Know Your Rights

Under Australian law, breastfeeding mothers have certain rights when returning to work:

• Fair Work Act 2009: Protects against discrimination on the basis of breastfeeding.
• National Employment Standards: Allow for flexible working arrangements for parents of young children.
• Workplace Health and Safety Laws: Require employers to provide a safe environment, which includes accommodating the needs of breastfeeding mothers.

Plan Ahead

• Communicate Early: Discuss your breast milk pumping needs with your employer before you return to work. Inform them of the need for regular breaks and a private space for expressing milk.
• Flexible Working Hours: Negotiate flexible hours or remote work options if possible.
• Childcare: Choose a childcare provider close to your workplace to allow for breastfeeding during breaks if feasible.

Create a Pumping Schedule

• Consistency: Pump at the same times each day to maintain your milk supply. Aim for every 3-4 hours, depending on your baby's feeding schedule.
• Duration: Each session should last around 15-20 minutes.

Prepare Your Pumping Space

• Privacy: Ensure you have a private, clean, and comfortable space to pump. This could be a dedicated room, an office, or a partitioned area.
• Facilities: Access to an electrical outlet, a comfortable chair, and a table. If possible, a refrigerator to store pumped breast milk. If you don't have access to a refrigerator then a good sized cooler bag will be sufficient for storing and transporting your breast milk during the work day.

What kind of breast pump do I need?

• Breast Pump Benefits: A hospital-grade quality portable and wearable pump like our range are essential for an easier and seamless transition.
• Advantages of Breast Pump: Using a breast pump allows you to maintain your milk supply, store milk for future feedings, and provide breast milk even when you are not physically present.

Benefits of Pumping to help with your return to work:

• Control: Pumping allows you to know exactly how much milk your baby is getting, especially if you are at work during some feeds
• Flexibility & Convenience: Other caregivers can feed the baby with pumped breast milk, giving you more flexibility in your work schedule. Whether you’re at work, running errands, or taking a break. This flexibility helps you manage your schedule better and reduces the stress of needing to be home for every feeding.
• Ensures Feeding Continuity: Pumping allows you to provide milk for your baby even when you’re away. This helps maintain a consistent feeding schedule, ensuring your baby receives the nutrition they need.
• Supports Milk Supply: Regular pumping can help maintain your milk supply, which is important if you plan to continue breastfeeding and expressing. It can also prevent issues like engorgement and clogged ducts.
• Bonding: You can still provide your baby with the benefits of breast milk even when you're apart, whilst giving your partner or other caregivers the opportunity to bond with your baby during feeding times.

Store and Transport Milk Safely

• At Work: Store pumped breast milk in a refrigerator or cooler bag.
• Transport: Use an insulated cooler bag with ice packs to keep milk cool during the journey home.

Maintain Hygiene

• Clean Pump Parts: Wash all parts that come into contact with milk after each use.
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after expressing milk.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

• Water: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• Healthy Snacks: Keep nutritious snacks handy to maintain your energy levels.

Support Network

• Family and Friends: Seek support from family and friends to help with childcare and household responsibilities if possible
• Breastfeeding Support Groups: Join local or online breastfeeding support groups for advice and encouragement.

References and Resources

• Australian Breastfeeding Association: Offers resources, support groups, and a helpline for breastfeeding mothers. Australian Breastfeeding Association
• Fair Work Ombudsman: Provides information on your rights as a breastfeeding mother in the workplace. Fair Work Ombudsman
• Raising Children Network: A government-supported website offering practical information on parenting and childcare. Raising Children Network

Returning to work as a pumping mum requires careful planning and open communication with your employer. By knowing your rights and setting up a supportive environment, you can successfully balance work and breastfeeding. You've got this mumma!