Breastfeeding Journey At Home and Beyond

When your baby is born, deciding to breastfeed can feel like one of the easiest and most natural choices you can make. Breastfeeding allows for on-demand feedings at any time—and provides invaluable bonding time for you and your little one. In fact, research suggests that breastfeeding is good for parent and child alike: a review published in the journal Infant found that breastfeeding spurs the production of oxytocin—a feel-good hormone—in both moms and their babies, promoting relaxation, healthy sleep cycles, and attachment for both. 

So, how exactly do you ensure that your breastfeeding journey will be a rewarding one for both of you? Whether you’re planning to return to the office, work from home, or stay home to care for your little one, here are a few easy ways to make your breastfeeding journey a seamless—and joyful—one at home and beyond: 

Set up a comfortable space—or spaces—in your home to breastfeed: While you may plan to breastfeed solely in a comfy chair in the nursery, the truth is you may end up nursing wherever your baby needs it. Even if space is limited, ensure you have the necessary items to promote a positive breastfeeding experience from the beginning.

Find a cozy chair that provides good support for your baby, along with a pillow (specifically designed for nursing) and some water or non-caffeinated drinks nearby to stay hydrated while breastfeeding. If you have the space, create multiple breastfeeding areas in your home and have extra pillows, a phone charger, and books handy for longer feeding sessions.

Talk to your boss about breastfeeding accommodations: If you’re planning to return to work after your baby is born, make sure you speak to your employer about potential accommodations for pumping and/or nursing in the workplace. Parents in the United States have the right to reasonable accommodation to nurse in the workplace and an appropriate place for nursing or pumping. This means a clean, well-lit room with a comfortable place for you to sit and some assurance of privacy, at the bare minimum. 

Ensure you are equipped with the necessary items for returning to work: It is important to have the right supplies ready, beginning with a bag that is suitable for pumping, such as the Petunia Pickle Bottom 2-in-1 Provisions Breast Pump & Diaper Bag Backpack. Along with your breast pump, remember to pack nursing pads, an additional bra in case of leakage, wipes for cleaning up after pumping, a snack, lots of water, and something entertaining like a book to help pass the time quickly.

Talk to an expert: If your breastfeeding journey isn’t going as planned—whether that’s due to low supply or a poor latch—calling in the pros can be a huge source of comfort and relief. Both Doctors and lactation consultants can be amazing resources when it comes to supporting your breastfeeding journey, and in the case of the latter, many will work around your schedule and even come to your home to provide assistance. 

Find community online: Instagram and TikTok aren’t just fun distractions when you need a break—they can also be a great way to find other people on a similar breastfeeding journey. Following specific hashtags like #breastfeeding and #nursing is an awesome way to connect with people who specialize in these topics and can share relatable tips related to their own journeys.

Your breastfeeding journey can be a beautiful one, no matter where you find yourself nursing or pumping—all it takes is a little planning. With the right accessories and a quiet place for you and your baby to snuggle, your nursing journey can flourish, no matter where life takes you. 

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