Top 10 Breastfeeding Essentials for Working Mothers

Breastfeeding is an important postpartum milestone for both babies and mothers. It is also a strenuous affair that gets demanding and challenging in the initial months of childbirth. Postpartum struggles like poor mental health, low self-esteem, erratic sleep patterns, and continuous feeding and baby-caring put a lot of pressure on new mothers.

Resuming work after delivery is another battle altogether. Being mentally ready is one thing but getting your baby adjusted to the new routine with breastfeeding pumps is a huge challenge that many mothers grapple with.

In celebrating breastfeeding week and raising awareness and noise to motivate moms to come forward and join the breastfeeding movement, we as a motherhood community have listed down some breastfeeding must-haves for back-to-work moms for a smooth transition.

Here is the detailed checklist:

• Breast pumps –

The breast pump is a manna from heaven for working mothers. A wearable breast pump comes first in the list of breastfeeding essentials. A wearable breast pump helps you go hands-free and lets you at ease as you need to insert it in your bra to use it. With a provision of 2 expression modes and nine suction levels, it allows you to use the pump your way. Remember, even if you pump, feed directly from the breast whenever you return from work or before going to work and through the night so that the supply is not affected.

• Breastmilk storage bags or containers

Buying a freezer bag for breastfeeding or a container with enough space to hold the breastmilk is very important. Make sure the storage bag has enough pockets or compartments for you to store the breastfeeding essentials. Use the storage container and sterilize it properly with boiling water before next use. And most important check the compatibility of the container with the breast pumps you use.

• Nursing cover

Invest in a comfortable nursing cover. Not all workplaces have a dedicated nursing pad or a room where mothers can pump comfortably. There are chances that you may have to pump in a public sitting area or a desk. Worry not. This is where getting yourself a nursing cover helps. Buy a skin-friendly nursing cover that is breathable for your baby to breathe easily while tucking behind the cover.

• Breast pads

Breast pads help soak the liquid gold that might leak or drip from the breasts while nursing your baby. Maternity nursing breast pads with skin-friendly fabric are another must-have that you cannot be without. Look for breathable and leakproof or breastmilk absorbent breast pads or breast shields that will ensure comfort and help stay discreet in the workplace.

• Nursing bra

Hands-free pumping or nursing bras are in vogue given their easy access with slits that lets you pump with less hassle. Nursing bras are designed for breastfeeding mothers, so it is recommended to use them while feeding your little ones. Some nursing bras have hook or zip closures which gives easy access for babies or when using breast pumps.Visit a maternity lingerie shop to get the right fit. Do not go for flashy ones but aim for utmost comfort.

• Nursing pillows -

Nursing pillows alleviate back pains that develop in the postpartum period. It allows you to express milk in a breast pump more comfortably and efficiently. Nursing pillows can be used both while breastfeeding and during pumping sessions. Look for an easy-to-wash and compact pillow that helps maintain a good latch and reduces strain on your back and shoulders.

• Easy-to-nurse wears –

Go easy on your office wear and style yourself in a baby-friendly attire to pump with ease. If you have a dedicated feeding room in your office, stock up on enough breastfeeding bras and nursing wear to get comfortable while using breast pumps.

• Lactation support –

Many workplaces offer lactation support for new mothers to have a better transition experience. Lactation consultants for working mothers offer personalized lactation classes to teach basic and improved feeding techniques, tips to use breast pumps in the workplace, and efficient breast pumps to new mothers.

• Flexible work timings –

Talk to HR and know the workplace policies for new mothers or mothers returning to work after a maternity break. You may have to choose flexible work timings in the initial months of resuming. Have a 1:1 chat with your manager and set expectations for your work deliverables and the time that you can spend at the office in the postpartum period. Check if they are offering a hybrid work atmosphere for you to adjust as a new mother.

• Breastfeeding support group

Joining a breastfeeding support group is important to learn and share insights on breastfeeding techniques and nursing positions. Check a support group for breastfeeding mothers near you or join Momly – the only tribe for a motherhood vibe. Speak to our community moms to make your transition as a working mother easy and stress-free.

A Word from Community Mom

Shilpiya Krishnan, our community mom, has following tips for new breastfeeding mothers who are returning to work after delivery.

• Your breastmilk supply is psychological. You can produce as much as you think possible. So, think big. Think positive and believe in yourself. Say your thoughts aloud. And you will see the magic happen.

• Invest in a good pump. When it comes to pumps, one size doesn’t fit all. Check your nipple diameter before you shortlist the pumps for you. Customizable pumps are a great option.

• Pumping should not be painful exercise if you are doing it right and if you have the correct flange size for you. Consult a lactation specialist if it is painful for you.

• Take care of your breasts/nipple if you are planning to pump for a longer period. For example, apply coconut oil at the end of the day after your pumping routine for the day is over to soothe any sore spots. Make sure you clean your nipples before the next pumping session if you are applying coconut oil.

• If you have been pumping regularly for 4 months, adjust the number of times you pump without losing the milk supply. Reduce the number of pumping sessions gradually. For instance, if you are pumping or breastfeeding eight times a day, take it down to seven times for the next three weeks. After three weeks, bring it further down to six times and so on.

• Consistency is key. Try to pump at the same time every day for the milk supply to stay stable.

• During some days of the month, you might have lower milk production. Continue pumping. It will go up in a couple of days.

Dear Moms,

Breastfeeding requires patience and care. Joining work during the breastfeeding period triggers a lot of mental distress and anxiety in new mothers. Making sure you have every nursing essential in place is half the battle won and reduces much of your mental load. Last but very crucial – Have positive self-talk with yourself to erase the negative thoughts that hover on top of the apprehension and care during this period.

Chant these affirmations:

“My breastfeeding journey is easy”

“As a breastfeeding mother, I get great support from my family and in the workplace”

“I am taking care of my baby’s needs”

Download Momly App and join Momly Plus and speak to our mom tribe to gain more insights on nursing and starting work after delivery.