You probably spent countless hours planning for the birth of your baby, your labor and delivery experience, and your hopes for your postpartum recovery. But one thing you might not have thought through yet is planning for your return to work. This looming return often brings some anxiety due to the complexities of navigating this stage of your new mom journey. We want you to feel prepared, equipped, and confident in your return to work.
Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions to support you as you prepare for this next stage.
- I feel really stressed and anxious when I think about returning to work. How do I manage these feelings as a postpartum mother?
It’s completely normal to feel anxious or stressed about returning to work after having a baby. Acknowledge that this is a challenging time and be kind to yourself. Use supportive self-talk and speak to yourself as you would a friend: “I’ve got this,” “I have a great support system,” “My baby and I will thrive through this transition.”
Lean on your support network, such as friends, family, co-workers, or a trusted support person. Share your concerns and talk through what’s causing you stress. Focus on what you can control and brainstorm solutions together. Simply discussing your worries can ease the load. You should never worry alone.
Knowledge can ease anxiety, too. Reach out early to your HR department, supervisor, or boss to discuss what returning to work will look like. Planning ahead helps ensure a smoother transition, and accommodations can often be made to support you as you adjust.
- I’m breastfeeding and don’t know if I’ll be able to continue (or want to continue) once I return to work. What should I do?
You’ve likely heard about the many benefits of breastfeeding for both you and your baby. Health organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding for at least one year, even after introducing other foods.
For working moms, laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act protect your right to reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space to express milk. The La Leche League USA website also offers helpful details about workplace pumping rights.
Since most moms can’t breastfeed during the workday, planning ahead can make a big difference. Identify a comfortable, private spot to pump, arrange for a breast pump (often covered by insurance), and find a safe way to store milk. Reach out to your HR department early to learn what support is available. Many workplaces have lactation rooms or can create one.
If you have questions about pumping or balancing breastfeeding with work, the Diana Health team is here to help. Our lactation consultants can guide you through the process. And remember that every feeding journey is unique. Whether you breastfeed, pump, or use formula, what matters most is finding what works best for you and your baby.
- What should I discuss with my employer about my return to work?
Honest and open communication with your employer can help support you during this transition. You are in charge of how much and what you share, as well as what (if any) accommodations you request.
Many working new moms ask to return with a reduced work schedule to ease back into full-time employment. Perhaps you can work shorter shifts, fewer days a week, or gradually resume your previous duties as you return. Some employers are open to new mothers working in a hybrid environment at least during their transition back to their original type of employment.
Connect with supportive co-workers. Other mothers may be especially useful to talk to as they’ve likely experienced the challenges of returning to work after having a baby, even if it was many years ago.
Having a discussion about what aspects of your job may be negotiable or could be temporarily modified may make your return to work even smoother. However, you’ll never know if this is an option if you don’t ask.
This is not the time to be “superwoman” and take on a bunch of new projects or responsibilities. Take it one step at a time. Remember that you deserve work-life balance as much as anyone else. Even if you used to be the one who worked all of the overtime shifts and volunteered for extra tasks, being a new mom can be a perfect time to redefine your boundaries.
At Diana Health, you have a team of women’s health experts dedicated to supporting you. Our care team includes mental health professionals who can provide guidance as you navigate this time of tremendous change. Even positive change can feel stressful, but you’re not alone. We’re here for you, every step of the way.can support you.
