Women's health physiotherapist Trista Chan assures new mothers that going back to the office can be made easier with careful planning, flexibility and support
Between the anxiety of leaving your baby and the demands of your professional career, returning to work while continuing to breastfeed can be a challenging experience for many new mums. But ensuring that your baby receives optimal nutrition while you're at the office is possible with careful planning, support and flexibility.
Of course, balancing work and family responsibilities can be challenging for anyone. And when you're breastfeeding, work-related factors like stress, fatigue, inadequate pumping frequency and duration, and dehydration can affect your milk volume. However, employers can play a significant role in supporting breastfeeding employees by adopting family-friendly policies and creating a supportive working environment, and advocating for your needs and seeking support from your workplace can go a long way in helping you navigate your way through this period.
Remember that not everyone may wish to pump or continue to breastfeed; many women also navigate combi feeding during this time. Whatever your choice around feeding, a graded and steady transition is key.
What is mastitis?
Another key consideration when transitioning to pumping is the prevention of mastitis (and clogged ducts). Mastitis is an inflammatory condition of the breast, caused by an obstruction in the milk duct and inflammation of the breast tissue around the blockage, and can lead to infection. It can be very uncomfortable and can result in fever and changes in milk supply. Interrupted or altered feeding patterns, rapid weaning, maternal stress, separation from infants, use of breast pump and poor education can increase the risk of getting mastitis. In fact, it is the most common cause for new mums to prematurely stopping breastfeeding. It is important to monitor for signs of infection or inflammation and seek medical attention if needed. These are the common symptoms of mastitis:
- Red, swollen, inflamed area of the breast
- Breast is hot to touch
- Painful lump (blocked duct)
- Flu-like symptoms (chills, headaches, muscle aches)
- Running a temperature ( > 38°C)
Treatments for mastitis
A woman’s health specialist can effectively help to relieve uncomfortable symptoms caused by mastitis or a clogged duct with a range of evidence-based and pain-free treatments, which may include therapeutic ultrasound (US), which uses US waves to dilate the milk ducts and dispel the swelling so the duct can return to its normal shape and milk can flow again; and manual therapy, which can include lymphatic drainage massage, reverse pressure nipple softening technique and kinesiotape to facilitate drainage around the affected breast area and help with baby latching. The specialist may also help educate on self-massage technique, planning pumping schedules and looking at breastfeeding positions as well as help with weaning off breastfeeding, or refer on to a midwife or lactational consultant to assess babies' latch and breastfeeding techniques.