by Arianna Larson

Created on: September 01, 2009   Last Updated: September 02, 2009

Like everything else, different people will look at going back to work after their baby's birth in many different ways. For some, going back to work is just what they ache for, for others; there is the anguish and anxiety of leaving their little, brand new baby behind. Many women go back to work not so much because they want to, but because their financial responsibilities force them to do so.

It doesn't matter what the reasons of going back to work are; there are a few issues that all mothers will face on their way back to the working force.

To breastfeed or not to breastfeed really is not a question, is just a matter of choice. But when you have decided that breastfeeding is the option you are going for; then you'll have to work some of the details.

Women who decide to bottle feed could either leave the bottles ready or leave the instructions; on the other hand, women who decided to breastfeed will need to take further steps. These women need to talk to their bosses to find out about a nursing room and the options they have in regards of time. Expressing milk takes about 20 minutes from the moment you get into the room and the moment you leave, that time includes putting the equipment together and getting the milk and then cleaning everything (this is just an approximation). Most states have regulations about working women who breastfeed and are back into the workforce, reviewing these are always beneficial. Also, the La Leche League website has tips on how to make breastfeeding and work a success

Another thing new mothers need to consider when going back to work is daycare. This might be the biggest anxiety trigger for new moms. Depending on your situation, a family member might be up to the task; but if family will not be an option for you, then you will need to do some homework. Most places require that you get onto a waiting list and, in order to get a spot in the place you want, you better work on that even before Baby arrives. Also, it is very important that before you make that choice, you research the options available to you to get the one that you believe will be the best for you and your baby. Things to consider here are safety, of course; but also you need to make sure schedules and prices are good for your situation. Details on the personnel that will be dealing with your baby are also important. Is the place a reputable place? Do they have strict methods for recruiting people? Do they follow all health and safety regulation?

Finally, the mental state of the new mom is very important and it also needs to be taken into account. The baby blues could happen to anyone, and while going back to work could be very beneficial, it could also be negative for the mental well-being of the new mother. Keeping it honest with oneself is the key here. Forget about what other people might think. Who cared about Tom Cruise blabbing about Brooke Shields, the only important thing was that she was being treated and both her and her baby were safe. Same train of though applies here, talk to your doctor if you need to and take it slow going back to work. Besides, an employer will rather have a healthy worker than one who cannot operate properly and could represent any kind of liability.

A good support environment is needed and not only at work but at home as well. Thousands of women go back to work after having their babies and they are great mothers and excellent workers. If that's that what you as a new mom are going for, do it. You can be both and be good too.

Learn more about this author, Arianna Larson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.