In honour of World Breastfeeding Week (1–7 August), Affinity Health, a trusted leader in affordable health cover, is helping working mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding after returning to work.
“Balancing a job and new motherhood can be overwhelming,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“But with the right support, education, and tools, women don’t have to choose between a career and giving their babies the nutritional benefits of breastmilk.”
Returning to work doesn’t mean breastfeeding has to stop. Continuing to breastfeed can help mothers stay connected to their babies emotionally and support the child’s immune system during the vulnerable early months of life.
Here are some practical, realistic tips for moms juggling work and breastfeeding:

1. Start Planning Before You Return

Returning to work after maternity leave can be an emotional and logistical adjustment, especially when you’re breastfeeding. To make the transition smoother, begin expressing breastmilk around two to three weeks before your return date. This gives you time to build up a small freezer supply, get your baby comfortable with feeding from a bottle, and establish a routine that works for you.
Investing in a good-quality breast pump, whether manual or electric, can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency. It’s also helpful to chat to your employer about practicalities: Where can you express milk during the workday? Will there be a private space and time allocated for you to pump?

2. Know Your Rights

While the Code of Good Practice on the Protection of Employees During Pregnancy and After the Birth of a Child recommends two 30-minute breaks per workday for breastfeeding or expressing milk during the first six months after childbirth, this guidance is not legally binding. As a result, many employers may be unaware of it or choose not to implement it, creating real challenges for working mothers despite broader labour protections for pregnant and postpartum employees.

3. Establish a Routine That Works

Once you’re back at work, setting up a reliable routine will help protect your milk supply and keep your baby consistently fed. A typical day might start with a feed before you leave home, followed by pumping sessions mid-morning, at lunch, and mid-afternoon. As soon as you’re reunited with your baby in the evening, try to breastfeed again. A regular expression mimics your baby’s feeding rhythm and tells your body to keep producing milk. Like most things with parenting, flexibility is key, but having a routine you stick to as often as possible reduces stress and keeps both you and your baby in sync.

4. Store and Transport Milk Safely

Proper storage is essential when you’re expressing milk at work. Freshly expressed breastmilk can be kept for four hours at room temperature, up to four days in a fridge, and up to six months in the freezer. Use sterilised containers or dedicated breastmilk storage bags, and always label each one with the date. If your office doesn’t have a fridge, consider using a cooler bag with ice packs to keep the milk safe until you get home. Remember not to refreeze thawed milk and never microwave it; gently warm it in hot water instead. Safe handling ensures your milk stays fresh, nutritious, and ready for baby.

5. Communicate with Your Caregiver

Leaving your baby in someone else’s care can be daunting, especially when it comes to feeding. Whether your child is at a crèche, with a nanny, or staying with a relative, the caregiver must understand how to handle breastmilk correctly. Show them how to thaw and warm the milk safely, and remind them not to mix it with anything (such as cereal or formula). They should also recognise the signs of hunger and fullness to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding. Clear communication and a written feeding schedule can go a long way in ensuring your baby is well cared for, and that you can focus on work knowing they’re in good hands.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

Adjusting to life as a working mom can be physically and emotionally draining, and breastfeeding on top of that adds another layer of pressure. It’s important to be gentle with yourself. You might miss a pumping session, experience a dip in supply, or feel overwhelmed, but this is entirely normal. Remember that breastfeeding isn’t all or nothing. Even a little breastmilk is valuable. Whether you breastfeed exclusively, mix feed with formula, or wean earlier than planned, what matters most is that you and your baby are happy, healthy, and thriving.

7. Ask for Support

You don’t have to go through this journey alone. Many other moms have walked the same path and are ready to share their experiences and encouragement. Support can come from lactation consultants, online parenting groups, local clinics, or even your workplace wellness programme. If you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, reach out – there’s no shame in asking for help. Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can offer emotional relief, practical tips, and a reminder that you’re part of a community that’s cheering you on.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding after maternity leave isn’t always easy, but with the proper support, it’s possible. By planning, knowing your rights, and setting up a routine that works for both you and your baby, you can continue giving your child the benefits of breastmilk while returning to work with confidence. Affinity Health offers peace of mind for working mothers with access to 24/7 telephonic medical advice, managed GP consultations, specialist visits (for maternity members), and emotional support via trauma counselling lines, all designed to support your well-being during and after pregnancy.

About Affinity Health

Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health cover provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.