prep for going back to work after baby comes
some moms are able to go back to work perfectly fine after having a baby. but there are other moms who just want to stay home and get snuggles ALL day long! i was one of those moms 🥺 when my first daughter was born i had to go back to work immediately. i hated dropping her off at daycare. eventually i got laid off because the company i worked for, couldn’t afford my position anymore. but it was a HUGE blessing! because now im a SAHM and i see my two girls every day! 💕
you need to prepare:
🤍emotionally
expect mixed feelings such as guilt, sadness, relief, or excitement. all are normal. remind yourself that going back doesn’t make you less of a mom. it’s part of caring for your family too. lean on support talk with your husband, friends, or other moms who’ve gone back early as well.
🤍breastfeeding
start pumping early about 2 weeks before you return, pump once daily to build a small freezer stash. practice bottle feeding and let someone else feed baby once a day so they adjust before you go back. pack smart and get a good pump bag, milk storage bags, cooler, and hands free pumping bra.
and know your rights!! you ARE legally entitled (under the U.S. PUMP Act) to reasonable break time and a private space (not a bathroom) to pump.
🤍ease into your new routine
test run mornings if you need to! at least a week before returning, try your new routine, getting dressed, feeding baby, drop offs, etc. and prep the night before lay out outfits, pack milk, bottles, and work items to save time. leep meals simple by meal prepping, freezing, or stock easy options for busy nights.
🤍give yourself grace, mama
it’s new to you! some things will go as planned and other won’t. prepare accordingly! always have a back up plan. ask for updated pics throughout the day. and don’t forget to take care of yourself!!
#preppingforbaby #backtowork #postpartumrecovery #baby #momlife
Going back to work after baby arrives can truly feel like an emotional rollercoaster. Adjusting to this change means balancing new motherhood with professional responsibilities, which can be overwhelming but also rewarding. Many moms find that planning ahead emotionally and practically helps smooth the transition. Start by acknowledging the mixed feelings that accompany returning to work—guilt, relief, sadness, or excitement are all common emotions. It's important to remember that caring for your family includes providing for their needs in different ways, and returning to work doesn't diminish your role as a mom. Sharing your experiences with your partner, friends, or support groups can provide comfort and advice. Given the demands of breastfeeding while working, beginning a pumping routine about two weeks prior can help both you and your baby adjust. Building a milk stash and getting comfortable with bottle feeding gives your baby important exposure to different feeding methods. Also, familiarize yourself with workplace rights, such as breaks and a private pumping space under the U.S. PUMP Act, so you can advocate effectively for yourself. Easing into your new routine by practicing mornings with your baby, organizing essentials the night before, and simplifying meals with prep or frozen options can reduce stress. Testing this routine a week in advance allows you to troubleshoot potential issues early. Lastly, give yourself grace and be flexible. Not every day will go perfectly, and that's okay. Having backup plans, asking for updates during the day, and prioritizing your own health and wellness are key to sustaining this new chapter. Remember, taking care of yourself enables you to take better care of your family.
