Going back to work after your maternity leave can be emotionally challenging, especially for Filipino moms. Unlike in other countries where mothers are allowed to go on leave for more than a year, Filipino moms are only allowed 60 days (for normal delivery) and 78 days (for caesarean delivery) leave. This is not even enough to meet the recommended timeframe of the World Health Organization of breastfeeding your baby for the first 180 days of his/her life.
Some tips to make the transition easier:
- Talk to your parner and your family and ask for their support. Share your plan of to continue breastfeeding your baby.
- If you already established a feeding schedule, keep track so that you’ll know how much milk you need to leave for your baby.
- Try practicing your back-to-work routine at least two weeks before the end of your leave.
- Most moms find it easier to go back to work in the middle of the week. The first few days are most likely the hardest for you and your baby emotionally. Having a shorter workweek will allow you to adjust easily.
- Take time for yourself. Get a haircut, a massage, or go shopping! Do something that will make you feel good.
Preparing for the transition will make it easier for both you and your baby. Just take one step at a time, and before you know it you’ll both be used to your new routine.