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Ask A Nurse
Questions and Answers

Q. I will be returning to work after a 6 week maternity leave. Should I even bother to breastfeed?

A. Breastfeeding is of such benefit to you and your baby that any amount of time you nurse is helpful. Because the first couple of weeks of breastfeeding can be frustrating or difficult you may feel that it is not worth the trouble but most mothers report that they are grateful that they persisted in their efforts. It will take several weeks for a good milk supply to come in and you will not want to offer the baby a bottle before 4 weeks. That helps both the baby and your body to get used to nursing. Two weeks before returning to work will be plenty of time to teach the baby to take a bottle in your absence. Many mothers find that things are going so well and that both they and the baby enjoy nursing so they continue to nurse even after mom returns to work. This can be done with good planning and organization and is well worth the extra time and trouble.

Cyndi Klausing, RN, ACCE, has been a childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor for over 18 years. She currently works as a newborn nursery nurse and is the mother of four sons.

Cyndi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.