When do I pump?
How do I catch up on all that I missed?
Note: Many of the tips here apply to those who work in traditional 9-5-ish jobs.
Well delve into parental leave for freelancers in the near future.
You will be a blubbering mess.
However you use those days of extra childcare, youll be glad you had that buffer.
If what you have left will temporarily sufficegreat.
If not, gather what you need.
If youll be pumping at work, youll have even more clothing limitations.
For those moms, Jennifer adds, No dresses!
Get your diaper delivery situation done automatically if possible.
Make a two-week food plan.
Get your holiday shopping done if its the latter half of the year.
Heresa mapof breastfeeding-at-work rights by state.
I did this with my first baby, and the day put me at ease.
(I know theres no reason to feel guilty, but still.)
What is this life?
Block out pumping time on yourcalendar
And dont allow anyone to schedule over it.
Lauren takes it a step further.
Be brutally transparent about pumping, she says.
A hands-free, cordless pump such asWillow,FreemieandElvie (waitlist).
Alternately, a hands-free pumping bra such asthis oneby Simple Wishes.
A mini fridge for your cubicle.
A Do Not Disturb tag for your pump room.
Let yourself feel the flood of emotions that come with returning to work.
You may feel rusty.
(Ive been identifying withthis tweetfor weeks.)
You may feel weepy.
You may feel like shouting Freeeeeeeedom!
the moment you leave your garage.
You may feel on edge.
You definitely feel tired.
Perhaps you just want to slide back into your sweats.
All of its normal.
Celebrate the small wins as you sip that office coffee in glorious silence.
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