according to the 2014 Global Breastfeeding Survey, the ideal duration of breastfeeding for more than half of women in Turkey is 12-24 months, yet the majority of mothers stop breastfeeding due to returning to work. But this should not be a reason to stop breastfeeding.
To be able to continue breastfeeding, you can do the following:
- You can use your breastfeeding leave.
- If your workplace is close to home, you can also go home and breastfeed your baby during lunch breaks.
- You can also express and store your milk so that your baby can receive breast milk even when you are not around.
With the support of your employer and coworkers and a good quality breast pump, you can store your expressed milk in suitable conditions. Even if you are separated from your baby during the day, just the thought of the close bond you will have with your baby at the end of the day will make you happy. You can ask your baby’s caregiver not to feed your baby for a few hours before you come home from work, or to feed your baby sparingly, so that you can breastfeed your baby when you get home and strengthen your bond even more.
A good breast pump not only supports the continuity of your milk production but also allows you to express milk for your baby while you are at work. Looking at a picture of your baby while expressing your milk will make you feel a little more relaxed and your milk will come more easily. The frequency of expressing milk should be the same as you breastfeed your baby and is important for the continuity of your milk production. Therefore, try not to skip sessions. If you do not express your milk at regular intervals, your milk ducts can become blocked and you can get mastitis. If your breasts swell too much and fill up with milk, it is advisable to express your breasts until you feel more comfortable.
You do not have to tell your colleagues about your milking breaks if you feel uncomfortable, but you should inform your manager so that they do not interfere with your work. It may be a good idea to bring a change of clothes and breast pads.