It takes effort to keep up with breastfeeding when you must be away from your baby for part of the day, but there are good reasons for sticking with breastfeeding to begin with, your baby gets better nutrition and the two of you continue to enjoy a special closeness. There are also other practical benefits, too:
• Breastfed babies are healthier, so mother (and father) will miss fewer work days to stay home with a sick baby who is not welcome at daycare. Studies show that breastfeeding mothers have three to six times less absenteeism than mothers who formula-feed.
• Breastfeeding saves money. A one-time pump purchase is cheaper than buying formula. Even renting a hospital-grade electric pump may be cheaper than buying formula. Breastfed babies also use fewer healthcare dollars, because of fewer visits to the doctor and fewer serious illnesses.
• Providing breastmilk for feedings while you’re gone protects your baby against allergies.
• Pumping, saving the milk and even leaking while you’re at work helps you feel connected to your baby when you must be apart.
• Because only mother can breastfeed, a baby always knows who is the person he loves the most. Nannies, babysitters, and daycare workers are no substitute for a nursing mom.
• Mothers can look forward to a warm and cuddly reunion at the breast after hours of separation. Mother and baby can enjoy the convenience and closeness of breastfeeding during all the hours they are together, day and night.