Breastfeeding & returning to work

[mirime]

All being well I'm planning on breastfeeding but will probably be returning to work when he's about 6 months old. I'd like to continue breastfeeding and express at work during the day for him to have the following day.

Could do with some advice on potential difficulties of this. I think my work would be fine with it - although I'd have to use the loo which isn't ideal - but have yet to discuss it with my manager. I'm the first person in a long while to not be taking a year off so not sure if this has come up before!

 

[Karate Kid]

Heya! I have only pumped during KIT days but it has worked fine. I fed C before I went to work then pumped through my working day. By law employers have to give you time to pump outside of your normal break times and they have to give you a place to do so. You shouldn't have to pump in the toilet.

Which pump do you have? Xx

 

[mirime]

Don't have one yet, not really looked in to it either. I was just thinking ahead really, as I think it's better to mention the possibility to my manager now - especially as there has been disagreement over whether we should buy a new fridge and if I were to do this it would definitely be needed.

I work in a small office, one room upstairs with four people, one downstairs with three people. Only private space is the toilet so I don't think there is much option if I want privacy.

 

[Mrs N]

A friend of mine went back after 9 months after exclusively bfing, she decided after a few days to give her lo formula during the day at nursery and bf at night and in the morning. Not saying that to be negative just to give you another idea?
Xxx

 

[mirime]

No that's ok, not negative at all

If it's all too difficult to manage that would be fine. I don't even know how well breastfeeding at all will go yet - I really want to but trying not to build it up into this massive thing where if it doesn't work out I feel like I've failed.

 

[Mrs N]

That's a good attitude! I'm sure you will get on fine!
Xxx

 

[twinkles]

Could you start expressing and build up a freezer stock before going back? I have done this and then express every 3/4 hours in work, by the time lo is 6 months you may not be feeding as much so can go longer! X

 

[l_maclean]

I went back at 6months, I work a 5hr shift and don't express at work (did for maybe a month if I had time). But dd didn't drink much while I was out - tended to wait till I got home to feed .


On my iPhone - so cant see tickers

 

[mirime]

I'll be working pretty much full time - 33 hours a week if that doesn't change due to funding (work for a charity). Also have an hours journey each way so I guess I'll need a freezer bag and ice packs.

I would try and freeze some in advance, but have limited space - we have problems squeezing our food in! I plan to make meals in bulk & freeze portions while I'm off to save money. Though we'll see about that. lol, lots of plans, no idea if any of them will work out - not much has just with being pregnant, baby being here will be a whole different kettle of fish