Helping women return to work and breastfeed

Lactation consultant Sue Wells speaks to Hauora Tairāwhiti to mark World Breastfeeding Week, which ended yesterday. Picture supplied

Lactation consultant Sue Wells helps mums with breastfeeding their babies at all stages, but she says returning to work is not just about providing an appropriate space. “It’s a relief for mums to learn they can still feed — to provide their breast milk and also return to work.

“Going back to work is good for many women’s mental health and socialisation.

“Quite often, women need to return to work due to the cost of living. But, we

can support these women in a range of ways.

“It’s not just about providing appropriate space and time for them to express milk.

“For some women, when they start expressing their breast milk, there is a sense of separation from their baby.

“It’s almost like breaking an invisible cord between mum and baby . . . because mum was the one who could solely feed her baby. Experiencing these emotions is normal. A breastfed baby is less likely to get sick, so for the employer it means (an employee will take) less time off with a sick baby.

“Feeding a baby expressed breast milk while a woman is at work also allows other family members to be involved in the care of that baby — it takes a village to raise a child.

“If you need any help with any aspect of breastfeeding you can reach out to your local lactation consultant, La Leche League, Turanga Health or Plunket.”