Introduction to Returning to Work After Maternity Leave in Canada
In my Toronto clinic, I often meet with new mothers who are anxious about returning to work after maternity leave. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I advise them on how to balance their job and breastfeeding responsibilities. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, breastfeeding is an essential part of infant nutrition, and many mothers want to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. In fact, the Public Health Agency of Canada recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, with continued breastfeeding along with solid foods up to two years or beyond, as stated in their breastfeeding guidelines.
Understanding Maternity Leave Laws in Canada
Under the Employment Insurance (EI) program, new mothers in Canada are eligible for up to 52 weeks of maternity leave, with a maximum of 17 weeks of maternity benefits and 35 weeks of parental benefits, as outlined in the Employment Insurance (EI) program. However, the laws surrounding returning to work after maternity leave can be complex, and it's essential to understand your rights and responsibilities as an employee. For example, according to the Employment Standards Act, 2000 in Ontario, employees are entitled to a leave of absence without pay for up to 63 weeks for the birth or adoption of a child.
Preparing for Return to Work
A mom I worked with last month at a La Leche League Canada group asked me about the best way to prepare for returning to work after maternity leave. I advised her to start by discussing her plans with her employer and exploring options for expressing milk at work. The La Leche League Canada recommends that mothers start expressing milk 2-3 weeks before returning to work to build up a stash of frozen milk. As she sat in my clinic, surrounded by the soothing sounds of a water feature and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee, she expressed her concerns about balancing work and breastfeeding.
I was worried that I wouldn't be able to express enough milk at work, but with the right pump and a supportive employer, I was able to build up a stash of frozen milk and continue breastfeeding my baby, even on the busiest of days.This mom's experience is a great example of how, with the right preparation and support, breastfeeding and working can be a successful combination.
Choosing the Right Breast Pump
When it comes to expressing milk at work, a good breast pump is essential. I recommend the Wearable Breast Pump (Double), which is a hospital-grade, hands-free wearable pump that is under 35 dB. This pump is perfect for discreetly expressing milk at work and is available for $169.90, which is 50% off the original price of $339.80. With its compact design and lightweight construction, this pump is easy to take on-the-go, and its quiet operation makes it ideal for use in a busy office environment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Returning to Work
- Discuss your plans with your employer and explore options for expressing milk at work, as outlined in the Employment Insurance (EI) program
- Start expressing milk 2-3 weeks before returning to work to build up a stash of frozen milk, as recommended by the La Leche League Canada
- Invest in a good breast pump, such as the Wearable Breast Pump (Double), which is a hospital-grade, hands-free wearable pump
- Find a private and comfortable space to express milk at work, as required by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 in Ontario
- Store your expressed milk safely in the fridge or freezer, following the guidelines outlined by Health Canada
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake that new mothers make when returning to work is not discussing their plans with their employer. This can lead to misunderstandings and difficulties in expressing milk at work. Another mistake is not starting to express milk early enough, which can make it difficult to build up a stash of frozen milk. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, it's essential to start expressing milk 2-3 weeks before returning to work to ensure a smooth transition.
Understanding Your Rights as an Employee
As an employee in Canada, you have the right to express milk at work and to take breaks to do so, as outlined in the Employment Insurance (EI) program. The Employment Insurance (EI) program also provides protections for new mothers, including the right to return to work after maternity leave. In Ontario, for example, employees are entitled to a leave of absence without pay for up to 63 weeks for the birth or adoption of a child, as stated in the Employment Standards Act, 2000.
Returning to Work in Ontario, Alberta, and BC
The laws surrounding returning to work after maternity leave can vary depending on the province. In Ontario, Alberta, and BC, new mothers have the right to return to work after maternity leave and to express milk at work. However, the specifics of these laws can differ, and it's essential to understand your rights and responsibilities as an employee in your province. For example, in Alberta, employees are entitled to a leave of absence without pay for up to 62 weeks for the birth or adoption of a child, as outlined in the Employment Standards Code.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, returning to work after maternity leave in Canada can be challenging, but with the right preparation and support, it can also be a positive experience. I recommend checking out our article on Double Breast Pump Hands Free: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide for more information on choosing the right breast pump. Additionally, consider investing in a Wearable Breast Pump (Double) for convenient and discreet expressing. With free Canada Post tracked delivery across Canada, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a lifetime warranty, you can trust that you're getting a high-quality product. As you prepare to return to work, remember to take advantage of the resources available to you, including the Public Health Agency of Canada's breastfeeding guidelines and the La Leche League Canada's support services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about returning to work after maternity leave in Canada:
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Q: Do you have to return to work after maternity leave in Canada?
A: No, you do not have to return to work after maternity leave in Canada. However, if you do choose to return to work, you have the right to express milk at work and to take breaks to do so, as outlined in the Employment Insurance (EI) program. -
Q: Do you have to go back to your employer after maternity leave?
A: Yes, if you were working for an employer before taking maternity leave, you have the right to return to work for that employer after your leave, as stated in the Employment Standards Act, 2000 in Ontario. -
Q: How long do you have to return to work after maternity leave before you can leave again?
A: There is no specific time limit for how long you have to return to work after maternity leave before you can leave again. However, if you choose to leave your job, you may be eligible for employment insurance benefits, as outlined in the Employment Insurance (EI) program. -
Q: How to return to work after maternity leave?
A: To return to work after maternity leave, start by discussing your plans with your employer and exploring options for expressing milk at work. You can also invest in a good breast pump, such as the Wearable Breast Pump (Double), and find a private and comfortable space to express milk at work, as recommended by the La Leche League Canada. -
Q: Do you have to go back to work after paid maternity leave?
A: No, you do not have to go back to work after paid maternity leave. However, if you do choose to return to work, you have the right to express milk at work and to take breaks to do so, as outlined in the Employment Insurance (EI) program. -
Q: How long do you have to go back to work after maternity leave?
A: There is no specific time limit for how long you have to go back to work after maternity leave. However, if you choose to return to work, you should discuss your plans with your employer and explore options for expressing milk at work, as recommended by the La Leche League Canada.
Written by Sarah Tremblay, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (Toronto, Canada)
Sarah is an IBCLC and mom of two based in Toronto. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ Canadian families with breastfeeding, pumping and the return-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo Canada guides in-house with the product team. She is a member of the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) and works alongside La Leche League Canada groups.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Emily Chen, MD, CCFP (Toronto)
