Some breastfeeding mums worry they will have to wean their baby before returning to work.
But there are many working mums who continue to breastfeed for as long as both they and their child are happy to do so. With a little bit of help, it really is possible to combine the two.
We caught up with leading Lactation Consultant, Nicola O’Byrne – the go-to woman in Dublin, renowned for her brilliant approach and gentle nature – for a little bit of her wisdom on working and breastfeeding, which is the theme for World Breastfeeding Week this year, taking place 1st-7th August.
Here, she talks about the advantages, which, she says, are well worth the effort. “For starters, Mum and baby get to keep their special bond. In fact, that first feed after work is a favourite one for many working mums and babies.”
Nicola continues, “Did you also know that breastfeeding mothers will make antibodies in their milk to zap any new bugs their baby might pick up from his new surroundings?”
Breastfeeding supportive employers and businesses can also reap the benefits too. “Women are more likely to return and stay in a job that helps her to continue breastfeeding by providing breastfeeding/pumping breaks, private areas to pump, and a fridge to store pumped milk,” says Nicola.
She adds, “Employers get to retain experienced motivated staff, and studies show these employees have less time off due to childhood illnesses and hospitalisation.”
Nicola also turned to a few mums who are back at work and breastfeeding, for their top tips…
“My advice would be to enjoy your maternity leave and trust that it will work itself out. I spent way too much time worrying about whether or not my baby would take a bottle. He never did and it worked out fine.”
– Lousie
“I spent so much time stressing. He drank beakers of water in the crèche, then breastfed at home.”
– Jenny
“It’s essential to have a breastfeeding-friendly childminder or crèche.”
– Annie
“Take as much maternity leave as humanly possible. Learn how to hand express for emergencies.”
– Chris
“Expect to spend most of your evening on the couch reconnecting with your baby; plan ahead at the weekend by cooking in advance; if possible, feed your baby at lunchtime. Try to take annual leave one day per week for the first four-six weeks; it breaks you in gently.”
– Orla
Knowing your breastfeeding rights at work will help too. Nicola says, “The older your baby is, the easier it is; however, Irish mothers are entitled to breastfeeding breaks if they return to work when the baby is under six months old. Breastfeeding supportive employers tend to relax the age limit.”
For more information, visit Back to Work and Breastfeeding on Facebook. You can also find details from the HSE.
Nicola O’Byrne is a lactation consultant in Dublin who holds regular breastfeeding classes. Find out about booking and class times via her website, Breastfeedingsupport.ie
