The Modern Indian Parent

44. Transition Back to Work for Breastfeeding Moms ft Dana Hardy, IBCLC


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Returning to work while breastfeeding can feel overwhelming. From pumping schedules and bottle refusal to freezer stash guilt and formula shame—there’s so much pressure on new moms to do it “perfectly.” In this episode, Rinie speaks with Dana Hardy, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and Executive Director of Begin Ed India, about the realities working mothers face when trying to continue breastfeeding after maternity leave. Whether you’re still on maternity leave, preparing to return to work, or already juggling feeds and Zoom calls—this episode is packed with practical tips, emotional validation, and refreshingly honest advice. 🍼 What You’ll Learn: - When and how to introduce a bottle without confusion - Whether you actually need a freezer stash - Tips for pumping at work and maintaining supply - What to do if your baby refuses the breast—or the bottle - Letting go of formula guilt - Advocating for pump breaks in your workplace ⏱ Chapter Breakdown 00:00 Introduction: Breastfeeding & Returning to Work 03:01 Dana’s Journey into Lactation Support 04:42 What Breastfeeding Moms Need to Know Before Returning to Work 07:59 When to Introduce a Bottle and Build a Pumping Plan 11:55 Choosing the Right Breast Pump 12:38 Increase in Night Feeds and Lack of Sleep 15:30 Superwoman Syndrome and Burn Out 18:12 Balancing Frequency of Pumping and Directly Latching Baby 20:11 Do Moms Need a Freezer Stash of Breastmilk? 26:28 Formula, Mixed Feeding & Letting Go of Shame 31:43 What if Baby Refuses the Breast because of the Bottle? 35:14 What if Baby Refuses the Bottle? 37:43 Advocating for Pump Breaks at Work 41:58 How to Reach Dana for Support 📱 Stay Connected With Us! 🎙️ Follow The Modern Indian Parent Podcast for exclusive parenting tips & episode updates! 📲 Follow here: https://www.instagram.com/modernindianparent/ 👩‍⚕️ Connect With The Hosts Rinie Gupta (Host, Pediatric Sleep Consultant): https://www.instagram.com/riniegupta/ Sanchita Daswani (Co-Host, Pediatric Nutritionist): https://www.instagram.com/sanchitadaswani/ 🤝 Connect With The Guest Dana Hardy (IBCLC and Executive Director of Begin Ed India): https://www.instagram.com/begin.edindia/

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The Modern Indian ParentBy Rinie Gupta and Sanchita Daswani