The issue of breastfeeding versus bottle feeding is still a controversial one with both sides having their share of proponents as well as detractors. If you are still undecided about which method to use then you should start with breastfeeding and later switch to bottle feeding if the experience is unsatisfactory. If you start with bottle feeding, then your milk supply will dry up and breastfeeding will no longer be a viable option. If you are a working mother breastfeeding may initially seem like an impractical choice, but remember, there are millions of mothers who have successfully managed both working and breastfeeding.
So take heart and do not let work deter you from choosing the breastfeeding option.
Once you have taken a decision, it simply becomes a matter of organizing things efficiently. Careful planning along with determination will help you to face the demands of work while still caring for your baby.
Try to take maternity leave for at least eight weeks. This will help you to recover from childbirth and establish your milk supply.
Get the hang of pumping and storing your breast milk while you are still at home. It is better to pump and store smaller doses of expressed milk as these will thaw quickly. If you are working full time then you will need to store 2 to 3 doses of expressed milk every day. Choose your caregiver carefully and make sure she is proficient in handling the stored milk. If possible make the arrangements before your delivery otherwise finding a suitable caregiver at the last minute can be extremely taxing. Remember, you need to be comfortable with the idea of leaving your baby with the caregiver. Tell your caregiver about how important it is to you and the baby to continue breastfeeding. In case your caregiver is not familiar with handling expressed milk you will need to teach her. Show her how to thaw the milk and create a system with her help for labeling and storing the bottles. Store only enough milk for the next 24 hour period. Milk should not be stored for longer periods than that. Most babies prefer their milk slightly warm so tell your caregiver to warm the milk and hold the baby while feeding.
Maintaining your professional image at work as well as your commitment to breastfeed your baby can be quite challenging. Preparation here is the key. You may prefer to bring your baby with you to work if your company’s work policy allows it. Or you may make arrangements with your caregiver to bring the baby to your workplace.
Here are a few tips to help you manage:
Expressed breast milk should be kept cool. If there is no refrigerator available, bring a cooler that has been filled with ice packs to cool the milk. Milk should not be stored for more than 24 hours.
Introducing the bottle can be quite a task when the baby is used to breastfeeding. Warming the milk first so that it is at the same temperature as your body can help. Hold the baby in the same position you use while breastfeeding. Above all, be patient.
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