Returning to work after maternity leave - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

By Amanda Genge, Staff Writer, myOptumHealth

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When Leslie returned to work after having her third child, she couldn't help but feel guilty. She was sad about no longer being the kids' primary caregiver. Worse, she was looking forward to going back to the office. Was she horrible for feeling that way?

Many working moms can empathize. More than half of mothers go back to work when their infants are less than one year old. By preparing ahead, though, mothers can help make the transition a smooth one for the whole family.

Embrace the decision

Try to address any mixed emotions you have before your first day back at work. You returned to work because you decided it is in your family's best interests.

It can also be good for your kids, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Some children, they say, become more self-assured and independent when they have caregivers other than their parents. A study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development has shown that high-quality childcare can help children to succeed at school.

It's normal to feel sad about leaving your child with someone else, even if that person is your spouse or mother. Yet it's also okay for you to look forward to new work challenges and some "adult time" away from the baby.

Find a caregiver you trust

It's important to trust the person caring for your child. Visit a few providers. Bring the baby's father or someone else you respect for a second opinion. When you go:

• Ask about licensing and state registrations, teacher training and safety.
• Check if feeding and diapering stations are clean.
• See if babies and children are engaged in activities.
• Find out if you can visit to nurse your baby.

Make a back-up plan

What will happen if your daycare center is closed or your child or babysitter becomes ill? If you can't take off from work, gather the names and numbers of backup daycare centers - or ask nearby family members or friends if they could help in a pinch.

Pick a start date

If you can, return to work on a Wednesday or Thursday. A short week will be easier to manage. Ask your employer in advance if you can arrange a flexible schedule or even telecommute. These measures can be temporary, or you can propose a "trial period" to see how it works out.

If you're breast-feeding, start pumping milk at least a few weeks before your start date. You can freeze it for emergency use once you're back at work. If no private room at your workplace is set aside for nursing mothers, ask if you can use an empty office or conference room with a locking door.

Ease back into a routine

Expect there to be a learning curve in this balancing act. It may take time before your baby - and you - adapt to a new schedule. Staying organized at home and at work will help you feel more in control. Don't be ashamed to ask for help from friends, coworkers and family. Try to get extra rest on the weekend by sleeping when the baby naps.

Don't neglect your own needs. Even if you have to steal 15 minutes reading in the bathroom, try to make time for yourself each day. Your work, your family and your own well-being will all be better for it.

View the original Returning to work after maternity leave article on myOptumHealth.com 

SOURCES:

• American Academy of Pediatrics. Parenting corner Q & A: Working mothers. Accessed: 08/07/2007

• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment characteristics of families in 2006. Accessed: 08/07/2007

• National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. The NICHD study of early child care and youth development, January 2006. Accessed: 08/07/2007