There are so many transitions, particularly when it’s time to go back to work. “The other thing I’d say is just that mothers shouldn’t hesitate to reach out to family, friends, partners and coworkers to ask for help when they need it, especially during that postpartum period. Most people are very understanding and supportive. “I think just being honest and communicating with coworkers and managers and telling them what you need is key. When asked if she has any advice for other mothers preparing to return to work while breastfeeding, her suggestion is to be clear about your needs. It means so much to me that I’m able to feed my babies, and NICU infants who really need those antibodies.” The health system also offers a depot location at Parkview Noble Hospital. “The process is really so simple, and now, with a depot location at PRMC, it’s so convenient. “I donated with both of my pregnancies.” Since having Adam, she has donated just over 15 gallons (2,001.5 ounces) of breastmilk. “I was blessed to be a bit of an over-supplier,” Caitlin admitted. It’s great, easier access.”Ĭaitlin is also a proud donor to the The Milk Bank, which provides safe access to breastmilk for infants in need. It has a sink for washing my pump parts and there’s a refrigerator in the breakroom for storing milk. With my first, it was a little less convenient, but now I have a place to pump that’s right down the hall. “When Parkview built the new tower on the PRMC campus, they put two mother’s rooms in the plan. That took a lot of the pressure off, and I know that not all moms have that opportunity. They gave me the time and space I needed to pump and continue with that journey. “I had to relearn the routine, but I knew my coworkers and my manager were very understanding and respectful of breastfeeding. “I was more prepared to go back to work after having Adam,” she said. It was a role she was ready to take on, with the support of her co-workers. Shortly after returning to work from her maternity leave with Adam, Caitlin received a promotion to lead in the laboratory. But I know he needs me in different ways.” I’m kind of excited to have my body back for myself, but also, it’s a little sad feeling like he doesn’t need me in that way anymore. I’m just getting ready to ween him off at 16 months, and it brings mixed emotions. “When my second came along, I knew what to do and I was more confident. They also helped me with my transition back to work. It was so good to work with the lactation consultants, and also to be with other moms and get out of the house. He was struggling with latching, but breastfeeding was really important to me, and I was determined for us to have that journey. “They had classes at PRMC twice a week, and throughout my maternity leave, I went to every class. “Owen was a very challenging nurser, and I had to rely heavily on the lactation consultants,” she recalled. Troubleshooting common breast pumping issuesĬaitlin McGowen, MLS (ASCP), laboratory lead scientist, Hematology, Parkview Regional Medical Center (PRMC), a mother of two, can relate to the challenges of returning to work while nursing, and generously agreed to share her personal experience.Ĭaitlin has two sons, Owen, 5, and Adam, 16 months. How to get the most out of your pumping sessions Pumping and storing for returning to work This also requires brushing up on your knowledge around breastmilk storage. “This World Breastfeeding Week, under its theme, ‘Let’s make breastfeeding at work, work’ – UNICEF and WHO are emphasizing the need for greater breastfeeding support across all workplaces to sustain and improve progress on breastfeeding rates globally.” Read the full statement here.įor many postpartum women, returning to work means introducing or adjusting a pumping routine. Yet even greater progress is possible when breastfeeding is protected and supported, particularly in the workplace. “In the last 10 years, many countries have made significant progress to increase exclusive breastfeeding rates. In a joint statement on the observance, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell and WHO Director-General Dr. World Breastfeeding Week falls at the beginning of August and serves as a reminder of the benefits that come from a mother providing nourishment for her child, when and if she’s able.
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