|
Returning to Work and Pumping |
|
|
|
Written by Leslye Adelman, M.S., IBCLC, CCE
|
|
Friday, 06 August 2010 |
|
Dear Lactation Consultant:
My baby is only 1 week old and I must return to work in 5 weeks. I am just getting the hang of breast feeding and am very nervous about pumping and introducing a bottle soon to prepare for the inevitable day around the corner. Can you offer any advise to make it easier for me?
Rosie Hoodman
New Hartford, New York
Dear Rosie:
My first piece of advice to you is to take a deep breath and enjoy the time you have at home with your baby before you return to work. That time will be here before you know it and you want to take advantage of each and every moment you have right now. In between those cuddly, peaceful moments, write a plan, which will make the transition a little easier for you.
In about one week you can begin pumping and offering one or two bottles a day. If you have not already purchased or rented a pump, check with your medical insurance company to see whether they will cover any portion of the pump. You can research pumps online. I have my favorite (check my store), but there are others you might like as well.
You should also decide on the type of bottle you will be using. We have recently posted an article on several BPA-free bottles that are good for breastfed babies, including the Green to Grow, which we sell (and have at a great discount this month).
Best times to pump are early and late in the day (you will be more successful with the amount you produce to the pump!) as you get used to pumping and someone other than you should introduce the bottle to the baby. The amount of breast milk you put in the bottle will be determined by the baby's weight. If you are concerned about maintaining your supply once you return to work (although at this point in time, your supply should be at its best, and feeding frequently will keep it that way.) Check with a lactation consultant in your area if you feel you need more help that this Q&A can offer but I hope I gave you enough to get you off to a good start. And remember those deep breaths.
—Leslye
|
