Confidently Return To Work After Baby

It’s no secret that returning to work after the birth of your child can be overwhelming. 

Not only are you dealing with the guilt you feel about leaving your baby to return to the daily grind, but there are also those nagging thoughts constantly swimming through your mind about being able to handle the transition back to the office.

Will I remember how to do my job?

Have they found someone who can do it better in my absence? 

How will I be a good mom and a good employee? 

Take it from a mom who has been there—it’s going to be okay! Adjusting takes time, but with the right preparation, you can make the transition smoother. Here’s how to ease back into work while balancing your new responsibilities as a parent.

1. Communicate with Your Employer in Advance

Before your leave ends, reconnect with your employer to confirm your return date and discuss any necessary adjustments. Ideally, reach out at least two weeks in advance to ensure a smooth transition. Topics to discuss include:

• Any remaining leave or a phased return-to-work schedule.

• IT or system access requirements.

• Updates on workplace policies, projects, or team changes.

2. Set Boundaries and Communicate New Needs

Parenthood comes with new responsibilities, so setting workplace boundaries is crucial. Be upfront about your new schedule and availability. A workplace that is committed to supporting working parents will stand by you as your transition. 

Consider the following:

• Do you need to leave work at a specific time for daycare pickup?

• Do you need uninterrupted family time in the evenings?

• Do you need advanced notice for work travel or after-hours events?

Being transparent about your new needs will help your team understand and respect your work-life balance. The more open and direct you are about what’s changing, the more people will respect your boundaries.

3. Secure Childcare You Can Trust

Confidence in your childcare arrangement will allow you to focus at work. If you’re worried about your child’s wellbeing, there’s no way you’re going to be able to focus at work.

Find childcare that makes you feel confident that your child is safe, loved and taken care of. 

Research your options early:

• Daycare: Visit facilities, read reviews, and ask about safety protocols.

• Nanny/Babysitter: Conduct interviews and background checks.

• Family Help: If relying on family, align expectations in advance.

Consider a gradual transition before your first full day back. If possible, start part-time to ease into your new routine. Drop your child off for a half-day at grandma’s, go with them to daycare for a day or two, or have your nanny start working a week or two before you go back to work.

Feeling more prepared will make the transition easier!

4. Create a Pumping Plan (If Breastfeeding)

Ask any working mom and they will likely tell you that pumping at work is another job.  

If you plan to continue breastfeeding, having a solid pumping strategy is essential. Follow these tips:

• Know Your Rights: Your employer must provide a private space and break time for pumping (as per the PUMP Act).

• Stock Up on Essentials: Keep spare pump parts, milk storage bags, and cleaning supplies at work.

• Plan Your Schedule: Block pumping times on your calendar to match your baby’s feeding schedule.

• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Milk supply can dip due to stress and dehydration, so drink water and eat well.

Many moms experience a dip in their milk production when they go back to work, so if it happens to you, start by making sure you are drinking enough water!  When you are focused on work, it is important to make sure you are still drinking enough water and eating enough to keep your milk supply up!

If you are still struggling, consider meeting with a lactation consultant. Wearing pump-friendly clothing is ideal and will make each session a bit smoother and quicker!

Pumping at work is temporary—take it one day at a time!

5. Be Patient with Yourself

They call it a “transition” for a reason: It takes time to adjust! Yes, you know how to do your job and now you may even feel that you’ve mastered parenting, but you have never done them both at the same time! 

Adjusting to work and parenthood simultaneously is a learning curve. Some days will be harder than others. Be kind to yourself and remember:

• Your productivity might look different, and that’s okay.

• It’s normal to feel emotional during this transition.

• You are still a great mom and a great employee.

When I first returned to work after having a baby, I remember an older colleague telling me that it does get easier. To be honest, I thought she was completely insane! But it turns out that she was right.

You will find your new normal with patience and preparation.

6. Helpful Reading List for Returning to Work After Baby

Expand your knowledge and find support in these books:

• The Fifth Trimester by Lauren Smith Brody

• Work. Pump. Repeat. by Jessica Shortall

• Fair Play by Eve Rodsky

• Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

• Mindful Return by Lori Mihalich-Levin

Final Thoughts

Returning to work after a baby is a major life change, but with clear communication, good childcare, and self-compassion, you will find a balance that works for you. Take it one step at a time—you’ve got this!