A previous study conducted by the Philippine Journal of Science found that 96% of the country’s working mothers have children that are from newborn to two years of age. As many new mothers return to the workforce within three to six months of giving birth, the challenge of balancing breastfeeding with professional duties becomes a significant concern. With recent supportive workplace policies mandated by the government and innovative breastfeeding products, the landscape for working mothers is improving.
Legal protections for breastfeeding mothers in the workplace are stronger than ever, with regulations ensuring that mothers have lactation breaks and private spaces for pumping. However, balancing work and breastfeeding requires more than just legal support—it requires practical solutions that fit seamlessly into a working mother’s busy schedule.
To support breastfeeding mothers as they navigate this transition, edamama, the leading online-to-offline platform for everything parenting, will be holding its Family Expo 2024 on August 15-18 at Megatrade Halls 2-3 in SM Megamall in Mandaluyong. This 4-day event will feature a dedicated breastfeeding area for breastfeeding mothers and offer exclusive discounts of up to 60% on breastfeeding pumps and other essentials.
edamama is fully committed to supporting breastfeeding mothers with a full month of offers and events this August online and in stores. As a brand for parents by parents, edamama and their working mamas have shared helpful breastfeeding tips for those who work at home or in the office:
Breast First!
Frequent latching to the breast is essential to establish a healthy milk supply. If you’re lucky to be able to work remotely, schedule your breaks when it’s the baby’s usual time to feed. Not only does latching enhance milk production, it promotes bonding with the baby, which in turn, further boosts lactation.
Start Pumping Early
If you intend to return to work soon, don’t wait too long to start your pumping journey. Not only does regular pumping promote increased milk production, starting early when your milk is being established will allow you to produce enough excess milk for freezing.
Timing Matters
We recommend pumping 30 minutes to an hour after breastfeeding the baby. Milk production tends to increase between midnight and early morning, as that is when prolactin levels are at their highest, making it an ideal time to build up a freezer stash.
Invest in a Durable Breast Pump
When choosing a breast pump, consider the value it brings to you and your baby, not just the price. To maintain your milk supply, it’s important to find a pump that efficiently empties your breasts and can withstand frequent use. Wearables are preferred by modern mamas as it gives mobility to working moms and is very compact to bring to and from work. For those working from home, investing in a hospital-grade pump can make a significant difference. Whichever pump you decide on, it needs to effectively empty your breast so your body will be encouraged to produce more milk.
Find a Routine That Works for You
Establish a pumping schedule at work. This ensures that you maintain your milk supply while you’re away from your baby and puts your mind at ease. When at home, carve out a time to effectively relax and feed to ensure you are able to focus on your baby and his or her needs for those few minutes of much-needed nourishment. Don’t forget to hydrate before and after every feeding.
Communicate with Your Employer
Discuss your breastfeeding needs with your employer early on. Explain the importance of regular breaks and a private space for pumping. Knowing your rights and maintaining open communication can make a big difference.
“As a working mother with an 8-month-old, sustaining breastfeeding has not been an easy road, but it has been the most rewarding decision I’ve made for me and my kids. As I build edamama, my main goal is to provide a workplace that offers a healthy environment for breastfeeding, and a platform that supports that journey. I hope all businesses can advocate for mothers by allowing flexibility in office hours and a conducive environment for those who need to pump.” Bela Gupta, edamama’s CEO and founder shared.
As we celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness Month this August, together, we can make the return to work a smooth and empowering experience for all breastfeeding mothers.
To help you prepare your lactation spaces at work, shop your breastfeeding essentials at edamama Family Expo, the biggest family event of the year, happening on August 15-18 at SM Megamall Megatrade Halls 2-3. A 4-day event for the whole family that will surely give you just enough fun to shop over 250 of your favorite family brands for up to 80% off, with breastfeeding pumps available at discounts of up to 80%.
Join us and support the journey of every working mother striving to balance career and breastfeeding.