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

I wish I had known that perfection was unattainable. I was warned, but if I had listened to that lesson earlier on I would have been easier on myself in many regards. At best, I’m perfectly imperfect

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?

I breastfed all three, but much more with my second and third. I did need to pump.

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

I had under twelve weeks with my first and twelve weeks with my second and third. 12 weeks is no time to spend with your babies. It is also barely enough to recover thoroughly from a C-Section. It was nice while it lasted, but it was both heart-wrenching and tiring to go back.

What was your biggest challenge going back to work?

My initial concern was being overlooked for promotional opportunities because I chose to become a mother.

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