Breastfeeding, pumping and going back to work

[leah]

Just had my first baby, June 27, 2010 and returning to work in October 2010. My husband will be staying at home with our baby. I am working in the german system as a "fest" member of the house so the schedule is 10-1 and 6-9 rehearsals. Has anyone done this already? Any advice on pumping management? When? I don't wish to bring my child to the theater.

[rosalinda]

leah,

Congratulations on your baby and on your gig! I had to go back to work one week after my first was born and pumped a lot until my job ended a few weeks later. It is doable!

My advice would be to find a pump now that you really like and get comfortable with using it as soon as possible. Having a double electric pump can be very efficient, but they are also expensive and loud/obtrusive. A single hand pump will relieve you of pressure and is much more discrete for use around co-workers, however, it takes more time to pump out all the milk and has a steeper learning curve, in my opinion. You will want to consider your specific situation when choosing a pump.

Build up a supply of frozen milk for your husband to use while you're away, and pump during breaks in rehearsal if possible. Save that milk (in bottles) in an insulated lunch bag and take it home for your husband to use the next day.

I would suggest nursing your baby and pumping on the other side using the schedule you'll be using once rehearsals start to get your body used to producing milk on that schedule.

Last, but certainly not least, get support. Find out if there is a Le Leche League group near where you'll be, especially if it's a new area for your family. They have lots of tips and mother-to-mother support that can help you keep going when the going gets tough. Here is a link to the German LLL website (in English): www.lalecheliga.de/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=428&Itemid=168

Best wishes,

Rosalinda