Any nurses out there that can give their advice and guidance? I'm returning to work
On Monday. DS is ebf. He takes a bottle from dh without an issue. I have a good freezer stash started.
What does your pump schedule look like when you work a 12 hr shift? I've been pumping after my first am feed. I'm thankful I only have to work three days a week but I'm terrified being away from home for 13-14 hours is going to kill my milk supply.
Re: Pumping through a 12 hr shift.
TTC #2 since 1/14
Miscarriage d/t blighted ovum 8/14
Also a doc but similar constraints as an RN.
Pumped on my way to work or before my first surgery (7ish).
Pumped at least three times during the day.
Pumped on my way home (6 ish).
Some days were harder than others. As long as I could hand express even for a few minutes I always knew it was better than nothing. I got my pumping down to 10 minutes or less on most occasions; I would pump longer if time permitted.
You can do it!!
I'm not a nurse but I worked 12 hour shifts when I went back to work. I would nurse before work then pump. At work I pumped after 4 hours and after 8 hours. Then when I got home I would either nurse or pump depending on if LO was awake.
My advice: stay flexible. You may have to try different schedules to see what works best for you! Eventually you'll get it down. And take care of yourself- eat well and drink lots of water!