BREASTFEEDING BASICS
At Texas Children's, we believe
breastfeeding and working are
compatible. It will definitely take
some effort, but in the end it will
be worth it. These tips from Texas Children's
Hospital's lactation consultants can help make
the transition
easier.
How to talk to your boss about
pumping
It’s best to approach the subject
while you are pregnant, letting your
employer know of your needs early in
case arrangements need to be made.
But, if you didn’t speak about it
before you gave birth, gather your
courage and broach the subject as
soon as possible.
When you speak to your employer:
-
Be
straightforward; don’t try to be funny or cute.
-
Give the
level of information you think your boss wants to
hear.
-
Mention
the benefits of breastfeeding if you think it will
help or if your employer is interested.
-
Work out a
plan for when and how long you will
pump, and how
you will work it into your schedule to avoid
disruption of your work.
-
Be
flexible.
Making
it work at home
-
Tell your
entire family about your plans.
-
Work out
who will grocery shop and cook.
-
Divide
household chores such as laundry, cleaning, care of
other children and errands.
-
If you work a Monday through Friday schedule, make your
first day back at work a Thursday or Friday.
-
Preparation and organization are essential. Each
night:
-
Load
the diaper bag with everything but milk.
-
Get
everyone’s clothes ready.
-
Set
the breakfast table.
-
Start
preparation for the next day's dinner.
-
Use
time-saving conveniences such as crock pots and rice
cookers.
-
Communicate often with your family to be sure
everyone is making a smooth transition and is
keeping up their part in the process.
Need more advice or
suggestions? Just want a little support?
Call or
e-mail
a lactation consultant for more tips and
support.
