Managing your expectations

We’re here to help you manage your expectations during this busy and demanding transition through three exercises: getting into the mindset that this is a marathon; coming to terms with your shifting identity; and taking a good look at the logistics of your days to fit what you most want.

We sat down with perinatal nurse practitioner Chris Raines to make sense of shifts in identity, and with pediatrician Dr. Laurie Jones to dig into what might be going on with your milk supply during this time.

Preparing for, and transitioning back to, work

There’s a lot to consider, and do, when preparing your return to work. From getting the gear you need and saving a milk stash to putting efficient systems in place and creating emergency plans, we’ve got you covered with our getting ready and transitioning back checklists.

Once you’ve settled into your new routine as the working parent of a baby, there are a few ways to optimize your pumping routine. This can help you keep your supply going strong for as long you want it to, as well as take advantage of whatever baby-free time you have.

Navigating child care and travel

With a little planning, you can also ease the transition for both yourself and your baby to child care. In addition to sorting out schedules, commutes, and what to pack, we’ve pulled together tips on how to navigate conversations around how your provider handles bottle feedings and, when it’s time, solids. For anyone who has to travel for days at a time for work—whether that’s regularly (i.e. pilots and flight attendants) or sporadically (i.e. for meetings or conferences)—we’ve pulled together tips on pumping while traveling for work. This includes everything from what to pack and where to pump to learning your rights and setting boundaries.