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I am going back to work. Does this mean that I will have to stop breastfeeding? The short answer is 'NO'. There is no reason why you cannot combine working with breastfeeding. It really is not as difficult as you think and after you have established a routine it need not be any more difficult than bottlefeeding. It is up to you how long you breastfeed for. This depends on many factors and is a personal choice. I fed my first two children for a year each, then went on to feed my third child for 2¼ years! My youngest child stopped breastfeeding just before his third birthday! If you have to return to work early, then you can leave a feed of EBM (expressed breast milk). Express the feed you would have missed at work, store the milk in a refrigerator and when you return home, transfer it to the freezer. EBM can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. This way you will always have a fresh feed ready for your next shift. You will soon get into the way of expressing quickly and easily. A photo of your baby next to you and a quiet room will help.   Article continues below advertisement   Employers MUST allow new mothers the opportunity to express milk or even have their baby brought to them for a feed. It is totally up to you and your baby, but it is advisable not to stop feeding suddenly. This will not only be bad for you, as you will become sore and engorged, but it would also be traumatic for your baby. If you know that you will be returning to work, then try to wean your baby over a few weeks. If you wish to stop breastfeeding, then give your baby a formula feed once a day to start with and gradually introduce more. If he will not take it from you, which is very common with breastfed babies, then give him to your partner to feed. Alternatively you can use a sterilised spoon or cup instead. If you want to continue to breastfeed, then start to get used to using the breast pump and leave some feeds in the freezer. Express after your baby has fed, so that you are not depriving him of milk. While you are at work, the baby can have EBM and you can express the feed you would have given him. This way your milk supply will not be affected and your baby has a fresh feed for the next day already prepared! © Sharon Trotter Back to Breastfeeding As Part Of Your Life     Breastfeeding As Part Of Your Life  In the early days and weeks of breastfeeding I felt exhausted. Is this normal?  My baby seems to want to feed all the time. Does this mean I don 't have enough milk?  When I go out with my baby, I feel embarrassed to feed in public places. What is your advice?  How long does a breastfeed last?  How long will I be giving night feeds for?  more.... Breastfeeding Problems and Treatments  My baby suffers from colic. Is this common with breastfeeders and what can I do to help?  What can I do to avoid getting sore nipples? If they are sore, what are the recommended treatment  What is meant by 'engorgement' of the breasts?  What is meant by the terms blocked duct and mastitis and what treatments would you recommend?  My baby has thrush in his mouth. Can I catch it whilst breastfeeding?  more.... Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Feeding  Breastfeeding in the Early Days  Breastfeeding As Part Of Your Life  Breastfeeding Problems and Treatments  Special BreastFeeding Circumstances  General Breastfeeding Questions  more.... Latest Forum Discussions Suddenly quite aware of feeding in public Mastitis???? increasing your milk Silicone breast implants How to store breast milk when out for the day Baby prefers Right breast BREASTPUMPS???  Breastfeeding Lowers Cancer Risk  Breastfeeding Releases Trust Hormone  BreastFeeding Banned in 1 In 4 British Restaurants  Buy Baby Feeding Equipment  Read our Health Features