Breastfeeding for working parents

If you can, take at least 4 to 6 weeks off to establish a breastfeeding routine. When you go back to work, using a breast pump lets you continue breastfeeding for as long as you want.

Make a plan and share it with your employer:

Locate a private place where you can pump or breastfeed.

Know how and where you'll store your breast milk.

Plan how frequently you'll need to pump.

Prepare yourself:

Practice pumping before you go back to work. It can take time to get the hang of it.

Most breastfeeding parents need to pump for 10 to 20 minutes per session.

If your milk supply is low, pump more often. This will give your body the signal to start producing more.

If you’re having trouble pumping comfortably, let us know. Our lactation consultants can help troubleshoot with you.

Prepare your baby:

Teach your baby how to drink your breast milk from a bottle.

Have someone else offer your baby a bottle of breast milk.

Don’t force it. If your baby refuses, try again in a few days.

Bottle feed your baby regularly during the 10 days before returning to work.