August is Breastfeeding Month, and for many mums it’s a reminder that going back to work doesn’t have to mean the end of your breastfeeding journey. It’s a juggling act, yes, but with a solid game plan and a few insider tips, you can pull it off and keep giving your baby the very best.
Meet the expert: Lizeth Kruger, National Clinic Executive at Dis-Chem Baby City.
Returning to the nine-to-five while juggling breastfeeding, 10,000 emails and endless catch-ups is no small feat. You’ll need to think about when and where you’ll pump, how to store milk safely and how to fit it all into your day without burning out. The good news is that with workplace support, expert guidance and the right gear, you can thrive at work and still nourish your baby. Here’s how.
1. Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until your first day back to figure things out. Kruger suggests starting two to three weeks before you return. “This gives you time to get into a pumping routine, stash away some frozen milk and test out your equipment.” As she says, “Breast is the best for baby and a little planning goes a long way.”
2. Know Your Rights
Plenty of mums don’t realise the law is on their side. The South African Code of Good Practice recommends at least two 30-minute breaks each workday to breastfeed or express during the first six months. That’s a full hour dedicated to your baby’s nutrition. Talk to your employer early so they can help create a supportive environment.
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3. Invest In The Right Gear
The right kit makes all the difference. Whether you choose a manual pump, an electric one, or a discreet wearable, go with what fits your routine. Add insulated cooler bags and proper storage pouches to your checklist to keep milk safe until you’re home. “Many retail pharmacies have trained clinic nurses who can guide you on what will suit your lifestyle best,” says Lizeth.
Pigeon Basic Manual Breast Pump
Medela Breast Pump Electric Solo Flex
Pigeon Breast Milk Storage Bags
Noa & Co Breastfeeding Support
Made 4 Mom Disposable Breast Pads
Lansinoh Nipple Cream 40ml
4. Lean On Clinic Support
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Clinic and pharmacy nurses can help with everything from improving latching to boosting milk supply. They’ll also walk you through the golden storage rules: four hours at room temperature, four days in the fridge and up to six months in the freezer.
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5. Every Drop Counts
It really does. According to the WHO, breastfed children often perform better on intelligence tests, are less likely to be overweight or obese, and are less prone to diabetes later in life. For mums, breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Of course, not every office has a private pumping room, so you may need to get creative. An empty meeting room, your car or even a quiet corner can do the job. “Even if you can only pump once or twice during the day, every drop counts,” says Kruger. Your baby will benefit from every bit you manage.
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