Sarah Johnson, a 36-year-old freelance creative director, shares her experiences balancing work and motherhood while breastfeeding her two children, Lily (2 years) and Noah (4 months).
TB: How was your initial breastfeeding experience?
SJ: Surprisingly, it wasn’t as challenging as I anticipated. Many people painted it as a daunting task, but in my case, it was manageable. I really disliked being pregnant, and I heard breastfeeding would only be uncomfortable for a couple of weeks. Compared to the nine months of daily nausea, two weeks of discomfort seemed like a small price to pay for my baby’s health.
TB: What motivated you to choose breastfeeding?
SJ: I decided to breastfeed because I believed it was the healthiest option for my children. I was aware of the potential challenges—latching issues, nipple confusion—but I was determined to try. As a working mom, I knew bottles would eventually come into play, so I introduced them early on. I also started using pacifiers right away, and thankfully, we faced no problems. Both babies adapted well, and it turned out to be easier in the long term.
TB: As a working mom, did you find breastfeeding challenging?
SJ: The kids have settled into a routine, and I pump for Noah while at work. He knows my schedule and eagerly looks for me when I return home. This special bond we share during nursing helps me feel connected, even with my work commitments.
TB: We heard you have a unique way of referencing pumping at the office. Care to share?
SJ: Absolutely! I say, “I’m going to run on the treadmill,” and I even have a picture of a woman on a treadmill on my office door to signal that I’m pumping. My colleagues, mostly men, get a little flustered at the mention of pumping, so this code works perfectly. I explain that I need a calm environment to pump, just like they wouldn’t want to be interrupted during a fun moment. If they knock, it disrupts the process.
For more experiences like Sarah’s, check out this enlightening post on breastfeeding challenges that can help new moms navigate their journeys.
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In summary, Sarah’s journey illustrates that while breastfeeding can present challenges, it can also foster a unique bond between mother and child. With proper planning and support, working mothers can successfully navigate this rewarding experience.
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