Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, provides tips on balancing breastfeeding with work commitments.
Every year, from 1 – 7 August, the world celebrates World Breastfeeding Week, highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for infants and mothers.
This year’s theme, Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all, resonates deeply with many mothers who face the challenge of integrating their professional responsibilities with the needs of their newborns.
As more women return to work after childbirth, understanding how to balance breastfeeding with work commitments becomes crucial.
Affinity Health explores the benefits of breastfeeding and the challenges working mothers face and gives tips on managing both.
Health Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breast milk has the right mix of nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes to help shield babies from infections and illnesses. Breastfeeding has many health benefits for mothers, too. It can help the uterus shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size faster, which reduces postpartum bleeding and lowers moms’ risk of breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis later on.
Challenges of Breastfeeding and Returning to Work
Time Management
La Leche League International suggests that mothers pump milk every two to three hours to maintain their milk supply and ensure their baby has enough throughout the day. Balancing work responsibilities with the need to pump breast milk regularly can be challenging.
Lack of Supportive Work Environment
Not all workplaces provide the necessary support for breastfeeding mothers, which can make breastfeeding and pumping at work more challenging.
Physical and Emotional Strain
Mothers may experience fatigue from frequent pumping sessions and stress from managing work and family responsibilities. Some women may feel guilty or anxious about leaving their baby in the care of others while they work, which can cause anxiety and stress.
Tips for Balancing Breastfeeding and Work
1. Plan Ahead
Before returning to work, it’s essential to plan and prepare. Discuss your breastfeeding plans with your employer to ensure they understand your needs. Familiarise yourself with your workplace’s policies on breastfeeding and pumping. Knowing your rights and the support available can make the transition smoother.
2. Create a Pumping Schedule
One of the most significant challenges for breastfeeding mothers returning to work is managing time effectively. Establishing a consistent pumping schedule that mimics your baby’s feeding times helps maintain your milk supply. Investing in an electric breast pump can make pumping sessions more efficient.
3. Know Your Rights
In South Africa, breastfeeding mothers have legal rights to pump milk at work. According to the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) and its Code of Good Practice on the Protection of Employees during pregnancy and after childbirth, employers should allow breastfeeding mothers at least two breaks of 30 minutes daily to express milk. These breastfeeding breaks are considered paid time and will be provided in addition to the employee’s regular tea and lunch breaks. Employers must provide a clean, private, secure space for mothers to express milk.
4. Communicate with Your Employer
Open communication with your employer is crucial. Explain your breastfeeding goals and discuss how to work together to accommodate your needs. This might include adjusting your work hours, taking shorter lunch breaks to allow for pumping sessions, or working from home on certain days.
5. Find a Support System
Having a support system can make a significant difference. Connect with other breastfeeding mothers at your workplace or join a local or online breastfeeding support group. Sharing experiences and tips can provide valuable insights and emotional support.
6. Invest in Good Equipment
Investing in a high-quality breast pump and comfortable pumping accessories can make the process more manageable. Look for a pump that is efficient, easy to use, and portable. H having spare parts and a cooler bag to store expressed milk can be incredibly helpful.
7. Take Care of Yourself
Self-care is crucial for nursing mothers. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep. If you ever feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for support.
8. Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power. Educate yourself about breastfeeding and pumping by reading books, attending workshops, or consulting a lactation expert.
Conclusion
World Breastfeeding Week reminds us of the importance of breastfeeding and the challenges that working mothers face. Balancing motherhood and professional responsibilities is no small feat, but it is possible with proper planning, support, and determination. Whether you’re a new mother preparing to return to work or an employer looking to support breastfeeding employees, understanding the needs and rights of breastfeeding mothers is crucial for creating a supportive and inclusive workplace.
