Babies in the Workplace

these pillows is a great way to keep your baby happy while allowing you to get work done. In the early days of my babies' lives, I spent many hours working at my computer while my baby nursed while lying on a Boppy or slept nestled against me. Keeping your baby close generally means she'll sleep more deeply and comfortably, because she won't feel the need to frequently wake up to make sure she's still in a safe environment.

If possible, exclusively breastfeeding your baby (not using bottles or formula) for the first six months is ideal for a baby's immune system. However, any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial for your baby.

Many working mothers find it difficult to pump enough milk during the day if their baby is in full-time day care, and some quit on the assumption that, since their baby is getting formula at day care anyway, there's no point in continuing to nurse. But

combining formula and breastfeeding is far better for your baby than not breastfeeding at all. Every time your baby breastfeeds, you are building her developing immune system, which provides lifelong benefits, as well as providing comfort and nurturing for your baby.

If you are not in a position to breastfeed your baby every time she is hungry, the second healthiest option is to pump milk for others to feed your baby when you can't nurse. Medela makes highly effective pumps such as the Pump in Style (I welcome other brand recommendations). If you are able to take your baby to work and nurse on a regular basis, this will help maintain your milk supply and make pumping easier. Sleeping with your baby and nursing during the night can also greatly help maintain your milk supply, since prolactin (a nursing hormone) production is highest at night. Another tip that works for many