Infant Nurture

Most mothers return to work after parental leave with a strong work ethic, determined to prove that they can deliver for the business AND express milk for their baby.

Sometimes, this may mean prioritising a meeting or an all-day workshop over her own need to express breastmilk. When there is a sudden long stretch between expressing or breastfeeding, this can lead to blocked ducts or even mastitis, both painful conditions that can leave the mother quite unwell.

It is important mothers feel safe and confident to put their own health needs first. A great way to do this is to schedule 'block-out' time in your calendar to express, and to let your manager and team know when you are not available for meetings.

The need to express milk for a baby is transient, and research shows that mothers who take time out of their day to express their breastmilk do not suffer negative repercussions in career progression.