Going back to work after having a baby can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for new parents. Between managing a newborn and catching up on work, it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day.
But with a little preparation and planning, the transition can be a lot smoother. Here are six things you can do to help prepare yourself for going back to work after having a baby.
Prepare your body and mind for the transition back to work
Preparing your body and mind for the transition back to work is crucial for a smooth and stress-free experience. Organize childcare, set up a flexible schedule, and create a plan for managing stress and anxiety.
Start by gradually shifting your sleep and wake cycles so that you will be able to wake up earlier when you return to work. Be sure to schedule some downtime throughout your day to help prevent feelings of overwhelm.
Start doing post-pregnancy physiotherapy exercises
Post-pregnancy physiotherapy exercises are essential for strengthening your body and improving your posture after giving birth. Talk to your doctor or a physiotherapist about which exercises are safe for you to do and start incorporating them into your daily routine.
Strengthening your core and pelvic floor muscles can also help prevent and reduce any post-pregnancy pain.
Buy comfortable clothing
Having comfortable clothing that allows you to move and breastfeed easily while at work can make all the difference. Invest in some comfortable, nursing-friendly clothing that will make it easy for you to pump or breastfeed whilst on your break.
This will allow you to focus on your work and not be concerned about uncomfortable outfits.
Invest in a quality breast pump
If you plan on breastfeeding or expressing milk at work, investing in a quality breast pump covered by insurance will make your life a lot easier. It’s important to find a pump that works well for you and fits your needs.
This will make it easier for you to express milk at work and allow you to feed your baby easily and comfortably when you’re not at home.
Look into workplace policies
It’s important to look into workplace policies regarding parental leave, lactation breaks, and other available benefits. This will help you know your rights and what to expect when you return to work.
Speak with your workplace’s HR department or a supervisor and discuss any concerns or needs you may have. If necessary, you can also consider requesting some additional support or time off to help you adjust to your new routine.
Discuss about creating an environment that supports working parents
Discussing with colleagues about creating an environment that supports working parents can also be helpful. They may have tips, advice, or strategies that have worked well for them in the past.
You may also want to explore the possibility of setting up a support network or a Moms’ group to help you navigate your way through the challenges you might face as a working parent.