Going Back to Work? Here's How to Continue Your Breastfeeding Journey

Returning to work after maternity leave is a big milestone.

Along with balancing work, childcare, and a new routine, many breastfeeding parents wonder, "Can I continue breastfeeding after I go back to work?"

The good news? Yes, you can.

Returning to work doesn't have to mean the end of your breastfeeding journey.

Every breastfeeding journey is different. Whether you breastfeed, pump at work, or do a combination of both, you're doing what works best for you and your baby.

Prepare Before You Return to Work

The weeks leading up to your return can feel overwhelming, but preparing ahead can help you feel more confident.

Here are a few practical steps to make the transition a little easier.

If possible, start using your breast pump 2–3 weeks before your first day back at work.

This gives you time to:

• Learn how to use your pump.

• Make sure your flanges fit correctly.

• Find a pumping routine that feels comfortable.

• Practice storing breast milk safely.

If your baby will be taking a bottle while you're at work, this is also a good time to introduce one. Giving your baby time to become familiar with bottle feeding before you return to work can help make the transition smoother for both of you.

You Don't Need a Huge Freezer Stash

Many parents worry that they need to freeze hundreds of ounces of milk before returning to work.

The truth is, you don't need a large freezer stash to successfully continue breastfeeding after returning to work.

A small supply is enough to get started because you'll continue making milk as you breastfeed and pump regularly.

Make a Pumping Schedule

While you're at work, aim to pump around the same times your baby would normally feed. This helps signal your body to keep making milk.

For most parents, this means pumping every 2–4 hours during the workday.

Pumping regularly helps:

• Maintain your milk supply.

• Prevent engorgement.

• Keep you comfortable throughout the day.

  
  

If you miss one pumping session because work gets busy, don't worry.

Simply return to your normal schedule when you can.

Pack Your Pumping Bag

Packing your supplies the night before can make your mornings feel less rushed and help you avoid forgetting important items.

Here's a simple checklist:

• Breast pump

• Correctly fitted flanges

• Milk storage bottles or bags

• Cooler bag with ice packs (if needed)

• Extra pump parts or valves

• Cleaning wipes or supplies

• Hands-free pumping bra

• Water bottle

• Healthy snacks

Keeping an extra set of pump parts at work can also be helpful in case you forget something.

Talk With Your Employer

Before returning to work, talk with your employer about where you can pump and when you can take pumping breaks. Planning ahead can help make your transition back to work less stressful.

Many workplaces provide a private space for pumping (other than a bathroom) and reasonable break time to express breast milk. If you're unsure about your workplace's policies, talk with your supervisor or human resources department before returning to work.

Breastfeed When You're Together

Going back to work doesn't mean you have to stop nursing.

Many parents continue breastfeeding:

• Before leaving for work

• As soon as they get home

• During the evening

• Overnight or early in the morning

These nursing sessions help maintain your milk supply and give you special time to reconnect with your baby.

Don't Compare Your Pump Output

Many parents become discouraged if they don't pump as much milk as they expected.

Remember:

The amount of milk you pump is not the same as the amount of milk your baby drinks while nursing.

Babies are usually much more efficient at removing milk than a breast pump.

It's completely normal for pump output to vary from day to day. It can be affected by:

• Stress

• Sleep

• Hydration

• Time of day

• How often you pump

A smaller pumping output does not always mean you have a low milk supply.

Be Kind to Yourself

Returning to work is a big adjustment.

Some days everything will go smoothly.

Other days may feel challenging.

That's completely normal.

Breastfeeding doesn't have to be perfect to be successful.

Every feeding, every pumping session, and every ounce of milk you provide is valuable.

Give yourself grace as you learn your new routine.

Need a Little Extra Support? 

If you're preparing to return to work, settling into a new pumping routine, or simply looking for support, we invite you to join one of our monthly breastfeeding support groups.

Mama Meet-Up

🗓️ First Monday of every month

🕛 12:00 PM

REGISTER HERE

Evening Breastfeeding Support Group

🗓️ Third Tuesday of every month

🕕 6:00 PM

REGISTER HERE

Or book a one-on-one consultation with us HERE.

Our support groups are a welcoming place to ask questions, share your experiences, and connect with other parents who understand what you're going through.

You'll also receive compassionate, evidence-based guidance from our lactation professionals.

No matter where you are in your breastfeeding journey, we're here to support you.

We're here to answer your questions, celebrate your wins, and provide evidence-based support every step of the way.

We hope to see you at one of our upcoming support groups.