What is one piece of advice you wish you could offer your former expectant self?

More education in breastfeeding, breastpump and how to maintain breastmilk supply after going back to work.

FOR MOMS: If you breastfed, was there a place for you to pump that met your needs and was conducive to your success? If you breastfed, how did you decide to continue? FOR DADS: What, if any, adjustments did you (or your workplace) make to your schedule after having a baby? Was it specific to your manager or larger, whole work culture?

There’s no specific factor really. Though right now I’m still breastfeeding and also give my baby formula in case I don’t produce enough breastmilk. I believe having him to have breastmilk is important when possible to help with his immune system, however, formula is also convenient when we’re out of the house or when I’m out in a meeting for too long and my husband can feed him too.

How much leave did you take, and how comfortable were you taking it?

About 7 weeks, I feel like it’s not enough especially when I feel like I still want to be close with my baby. But economically thinking, my husband and I needed the extra income so like it or not I had to go back to work.

When did the “new normal” set in for you?

I’m still trying to balance it myself, but I think it’s never too late or early to start figuring out if you’d like to make the schedule for your lil one or work around their schedule.

What was your biggest challenge going back to work?

The schedule was my biggest concern. With recently having a newborn, all I want to do is just to cuddle with him, but I know I also need to get back on my foot so that I’ll be able to stay sane and be able to balance my life, work, baby, and… romance 😉

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