Back to Work? Tips from a Lactation Consultant

Returning to work after maternity leave brings up a lot of questions, and if you’re breastfeeding/pumping then there is even more to consider. 

You may be wondering…

If I’m not pumping yet, when do I start pumping?

How often should I pump?

How do I maintain my supply?

Which pump is best?

These questions are completely normal to ask yourself, yet finding the answers are not always straightforward. This is why we partnered with Jaren Soloff, RD IBCLC, owner of Full Crcl to answer these questions and more. Jaren is a San Diego based IBCLC ( IBCLC stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and is the highest accredited healthcare professionals specializing in lactation).

We love Jaren’s approach to education because she understands that folks in their fourth trimester don’t have time to read lengthy articles or books on this subject so she breaks down the basics in easy to scan bullet points - thanks Jaren, you get us! 

Let’s begin….

When to start pumping?

• Starting adding in a pumping session approximately 4-6 weeks before your return to work.
• Begin with adding in a morning pumping session after your babies first breastfeeding.
• You can begin storing milk in the freezer to have as an "insurance policy" for when you return to work.

How often to pump?

• You will need to pump every 2-4 hours or about the same # of times you feed your baby.
• Consider your average workday schedule & propose a pumping schedule to suit your anticipated workflow.
• If your baby is being cared for close to your workplace, you can experiment with feeding your baby instead of pumping.

Maintaining Supply

• Work on finding your "magic number" of pump sessions needed to maintain your milk supply.
• Use transition times like drop off and pick up to breastfeed.
• When pumping at work, trigger a "let down" response by looking at photos/videos of your baby and/or a piece of clothing to signal to your body that your baby is close.

Choosing a pump

• Recommended pumps: depends on frequency of use.
• Types of pumps: hands free pump, double electric, and manual pumps. 
• Double electric pump is most recommended for milk removal.
• Stay up to date on pump part maintenance to ensure optimal functioning.

Common Challenges

• Biggest culprits: stress, over scheduling, return of period.
• Your baby is more effective than the pump;, build in connection time.
• Private accommodations are required by law.

Getting Support

Did you know that you can schedule a “back to work” consultation with an IBCLC and it may be covered by your insurance? 

In this session you will create a pumping plan according to your schedule, learn your proper flange size, understand milk storage guidelines, learn tips for bottle feeding, and get access to working parent resources.

Request your back to work consultation with Jaren here.

You can learn more about Jaren on her website or follow her on Instagram @breastfeeding.nutritionist