We all know that “breast is best” but many are not aware of ALL of the reasons why. Benefits of breastfeeding for baby include meeting all nutritional needs of baby, transfer of important antibodies from mom to help stave off illnesses and diseases (e.g. obesity, diabetes, leukemia), and providing valuable bonding opportunities which in itself have a host of benefits for the baby’s well being. Benefits of breastfeeding for the mother include decreased breast and ovarian cancer risk, improved cardiovascular health, lowered risk of osteoporosis, increased calorie metabolism which may help with weight loss, and providing an easy, quick, inexpensive way to feed/hydrate her baby.
Returning to work outside of the home decreases the opportunities to directly nurse one’s baby through the day, however pumping while at work will allow a mom to continue to provide her baby with the beneficial nutrition.
Breastfeeding mothers are fortunate to have a lovely room called Lily on the first floor, across from DMS, to use for pumping while at work at National Life. This certainly eases some the burden of all of the work that goes into the pumping. It is still not an easy task to fit into the day as it entails packing all of the required parts and bottles each morning before work, finding the time to scoot away while at work, then washing and drying everything each evening. It is understandable how it can seem too cumbersome to continue for as long as desired or recommended. It helps to ask for support where possible. Perhaps someone else can help with washing the parts and bottles each day, or help prepare the supplies for work. It also helps to make the time when pumping enjoyable, something almost to look forward to. Some ideas are to use that time to catch up on a podcast, listen to an audiobook, or finally give those mindfulness meditation/breathing exercises a go. Maybe schedule breaks with other working moms or have a quick chat over the phone during pump breaks. Whatever the brief activity, it is about making a task that could be a hassle seem a little less burdensome.
Has breastfeeding or pumping been a struggle, or painful, from the get-go? Are you finding it difficult to keep up with? Is milk supply decreasing or are you starting to smell like maple syrup from all the fenugreek consumed? Are you a partner of someone who is breastfeeding or pumping wondering if the workload that comes with it is outweighing the benefits? It’s okay if it has to stop. We repeat: It is okay.
Promotion of the benefits of breastfeeding has been important, however, it is not always balanced with reassurance that if it is not working out, that babies will continue to thrive quite well with supplemental nutrition. It is easy for women and partners to feel overwhelmed or guilty if breastfeeding is not going to plan, or truly not something they would like to continue. Formula is made specifically to meet a baby’s nutritional needs and cuddles can certainly continue during feeding times so it is okay to turn to this as needed.
If any distress is occurring while making the call to continue breastfeeding, or any issues arise while breastfeeding (e.g. pain, trouble with latch, etc.) then reach out to a lactation consultant, your health care provider, or to the National Life Health + Wellness Center (802.229.7515). Otherwise, hang in there, enjoy all of the “firsts” with your wee one(s), and get some rest. Time with young children races by quickly!