Start Preparing Before You Return to WorkPlanning ahead can make the transition back to work smoother. Starting these steps a few weeks before returning to work can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Learning how to use your breast pump
Building a small freezer stash of milk
Introducing your baby to a bottle
Talking with your employer about pumping breaks
Make Sure You Have the Right Pumping EquipmentBefore you return to work, check that you have the equipment you need for pumping.
Using the correct flange size is important.
A good fit helps make pumping more comfortable and can help you remove milk more effectively.
Build a Small Freezer StashMany families find it helpful to have some milk stored before returning to work. You do not need a large supply. Even a small stash can help give you peace of mind as you transition back to work.
Introduce Bottles Before Returning to WorkIf your baby has not used a bottle yet, it can be helpful to introduce one at least two weeks before you return to work. Many families begin offering a bottle when their baby is around 3–6 weeks old, once breastfeeding is going well.
Pump right before the bottle feeding so your baby can drink freshly pumped milk
OR
Give milk from the fridge or freezer and pump right after your baby eats.
How Much Milk Does a
Breastfed Baby Need?Breastfed babies usually drink about 2-4 ounces of milk per feeding once they are around 3-6 weeks old. This amount often stays fairly consistent as your baby grows, even though feeding patterns may change.
Every baby is different, so your baby may take slightly more or less.
Pumping at WorkOnce you return to work, try to pump about every 2-3 hours while you are away from your baby. This helps maintain your milk supply and provides milk for future feedings. Your schedule may vary depending on your work environment.
A morning
break
Lunch
An afternoon break
Know Your Pumping
Rights at WorkThere are laws that protect breastfeeding employees. These protections typically apply for at least one year after your baby’s birth. Before returning to work, it can be helpful to talk with your employer about your pumping needs, including break times and where you can pump.
You Are Not AloneHaving support can make the transition back to work much easier. Balancing breastfeeding and work can take some adjustment, but many parents successfully do both. If you have questions or need support, reach out to your local WIC office.
The Bottom LineContinuing to breastfeed after returning to work is possible with some preparation. With planning and support, you can continue providing breast milk for your baby while working.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, September 23). 5 Tips for Returning to Work and Breastfeeding.
https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/features/returning-to-work-and-breastfeeding.html
La Leche League International. (2026). Pumping milk.
https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/pumping-milk/
Office on Women’s Health. (2025, October 23). Breastfeeding and going back to work.
https://womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-home-work-and-public/breastfeeding-and-going-back-work
U.S. Department of Labor. (2026, January). FLSA Protections to Pump at Work.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pump-at-work
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Side-Lying Hold
This hold is useful when:
Cross-Cradle Hold
This hold is useful when:
Clutch or “Football” Hold
This hold is useful when:
Cradle Hold
This hold is useful when:
Laid-Back Hold
This hold is useful when:
Breastfeeding and Going
Back to Work