Forsyth Medical Center 
Adult Years
Working Mothers Can Nurse, Too
| It takes extra effort to continue breastfeeding after returning to work, but most nursing mothers say it is worth it. |
You can continue to nurse your baby, even if you go back to work. There are definite advantages for both of you, if you choose to do so. Breastfeeding will help ease anxiety you may experience over being separated from your baby. Thanks to the protective effects of breast milk, breast fed babies are sick less often, which will reduce your anxieties, too.
Breastfeeding comforts your baby and creates a feeling of security when you are "reunited" to nurse. It takes some extra effort to continue breastfeeding once you've gone back to work, but most nursing mothers say the advantages are worth it. Here are some tips to help you schedule feedings and to express effectively:
- Breastfeed in the morning before work, and again when you come home, during the evening, and at night if the baby is still young enough to require night feedings.
- Express breast milk at work with an electric breast pump at approximately the same times throughout the day that the baby would be eating. Following a schedule is important for your milk production.
- When you express at work, find a place that is comfortable and private. This will help you relax so your milk will flow freely.
- Practice slow, easy breathing as you settle down to express.
- Sip a beverage while you express your milk.
- Be sure you are warm enough. Warmth helps relax you and start the milk flow. Put a sweater around your shoulders, sit near a heat source, or place a warm washcloth on your breasts.
- If you are using an electric breast pump, tape your baby's picture to it.
- Store the milk for the next day's feedings in a cooler or refrigerator.
