Introduction to Returning to Work After Maternity Leave NZ
In my Auckland clinic, I've worked with numerous mums who are preparing to return to work after maternity leave. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I understand the challenges that come with balancing work and breastfeeding. According to Plunket, many mums in NZ face difficulties when returning to work after maternity leave, with around 70% of breastfeeding mums experiencing some level of difficulty. At Plunket, you can call 0800 933 922 for support and guidance.
Understanding Your Rights as a Breastfeeding Mum
Under the Employment Relations Act 2000 (Part 6BA), New Zealand employers must provide reasonable breaks and appropriate facilities for an employee who wishes to breastfeed or express milk at work, so far as is reasonable and practicable. This means that you have the right to express milk at work and store it safely, which is essential for maintaining your milk supply and preventing engorgement. For example, you can express milk in a private room, such as a lactation room or a first aid room, and store it in a fridge or a cooler with ice packs.
Preparing for Your Return to Work
Before returning to work, it's essential to prepare yourself and your baby for the transition. This includes expressing and storing milk, introducing a bottle, and establishing a breastfeeding routine. I recommend using a Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump PRO2 (Double) to make expressing milk easier and more convenient. You can also label and date your expressed milk, and store it in the fridge for up to 3-5 days or in the freezer for up to 6-12 months.
Not Returning to Work After Maternity Leave NZ
Some mums may choose not to return to work after maternity leave, and that's okay. However, if you do plan to return to work, it's crucial to have a plan in place for your baby's care and your breastfeeding routine. You can discuss your options with your employer, such as flexible working hours or working from home, to ensure a smooth transition.
Step-by-Step Guide to Returning to Work After Maternity Leave
- Discuss your return to work with your employer and establish a plan for expressing milk at work, including the frequency and duration of breaks, and the provision of a private room for expressing milk.
- Introduce a bottle to your baby and establish a breastfeeding routine, to ensure a smooth transition and prevent nipple confusion.
- Invest in a good breast pump, such as the Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump PRO2 (Double), to make expressing milk easier and more convenient.
- Store your expressed milk safely and hygienically, by labeling and dating it, and storing it in the fridge or freezer.
- Consider using a Wearable Hands-Free Breast Pump for convenient and discreet expressing, which can be especially useful in a busy workplace.
Return to Work After Maternity Leave Sample Letter NZ
When returning to work, it's essential to communicate with your employer and establish a plan for expressing milk at work. You can use a sample letter to inform your employer of your intentions and needs, such as requesting a private room for expressing milk or flexible working hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Returning to Work After Maternity Leave
One common mistake that mums make when returning to work after maternity leave is not having a plan in place for expressing milk at work. This can lead to engorgement, mastitis, and other breastfeeding complications. Another mistake is not introducing a bottle to your baby before returning to work, which can make the transition more difficult.
I recall working with a mum who was returning to work after maternity leave and was experiencing difficulties with expressing milk at work. She was feeling anxious and stressed, and her milk supply was starting to decrease. We worked together to establish a breastfeeding routine, and I recommended that she use a wearable breast pump to make expressing milk easier and more convenient. With a bit of practice and patience, she was able to express milk comfortably and confidently at work, and her milk supply increased. She was relieved and happy to be able to continue breastfeeding her baby, and she was grateful for the support and guidance she received.
How to Deal with Returning to Work After Maternity Leave
Returning to work after maternity leave can be emotionally challenging, but there are ways to cope. Consider joining a La Leche League NZ group or talking to a lactation consultant for support and guidance. You can also call Plunket on 0800 933 922 for advice and support. Remember, you're not alone, and many mums have successfully returned to work after maternity leave while continuing to breastfeed.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Returning to work after maternity leave in NZ requires planning, preparation, and support. By following these steps and tips, you can make a smooth transition and balance work and breastfeeding. Remember to try TheRelievoo Wearable Pump for convenient and discreet expressing, and don't hesitate to reach out for support and guidance when you need it. You can also contact Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora on 0800 611 116 for advice and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How long do you have to go back to work after maternity leave?
A: In NZ, you can take up to 26 weeks of government-funded paid parental leave, but you can return to work at any time during this period. You can also take an additional 26 weeks of unpaid leave, but you must discuss this with your employer. -
Q: Do you have to go back to your employer after maternity leave?
A: No, you don't have to go back to your employer after maternity leave, but you must notify them of your intentions. You can choose to return to your previous employer or start a new job, but you must provide your employer with at least 4 weeks' notice. -
Q: How to return to work after maternity leave?
A: To return to work after maternity leave, you should discuss your return with your employer, introduce a bottle to your baby, and establish a breastfeeding routine. You can also use a sample letter to inform your employer of your intentions and needs. -
Q: How long do I have to return to work after maternity leave before I can leave?
A: In NZ, you can return to work at any time during your paid parental leave period, but you must notify your employer of your intentions. You can also take an additional 26 weeks of unpaid leave, but you must discuss this with your employer. -
Q: Do you have to return to work after maternity leave UK?
A: The rules and regulations regarding returning to work after maternity leave vary between countries, so it's essential to check the specific laws and guidelines in your country. In the UK, you can take up to 52 weeks of maternity leave, but you must provide your employer with at least 8 weeks' notice. -
Q: How to deal with returning to work after maternity leave?
A: To deal with returning to work after maternity leave, consider joining a support group, talking to a lactation consultant, and establishing a breastfeeding routine. You can also use a wearable breast pump to make expressing milk easier and more convenient, and don't hesitate to reach out for support and guidance when you need it.
Written by Charlotte Reid, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (Auckland, New Zealand)
Charlotte is an IBCLC and mum of two based in Auckland. Since 2018 she has supported 500+ New Zealand families with breastfeeding, expressing and the return-to-work transition, and writes all TheRelievoo New Zealand guides in-house with the product team. She is a member of La Leche League New Zealand.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Aroha Mitchell, MBChB (Auckland)
