Managing to breastfeed and work

Two readers share their views

"Returning to work after having my son was both daunting and exciting. I was prepared to start weaning my 7-month old in preparation for returning to work, when I saw the article in EM launching the new breastfeeding facilities in Head Office. After discussing it with the Equal Opportunities Office, I decided that this would be the ideal opportunity to continue breastfeeding my son, something which we would both benefit from. My manager kindly agreed to allow me two 20-minute breaks per day to visit the facility for the purpose of expressing breast milk.

I breastfed my son before I went to work in the morning and again as soon as I returned. The breastfeeding room is private, has sterilising facilities, a refrigerator and a hospital grade double breast pump. I was able to sterilise my equipment first thing in the morning in preparation for expressing later in the day. It took me forty minutes of my work day to express enough milk for my baby. It can be a hassle, but the increased benefit of longer breastfeeding meant that my baby will benefit for his entire lifetime.

Looking at my now healthy, happy, 16-month old is the ultimate reward for the effort and bit of time required. During the time I breastfed my son I did not have to take time off work due to any illness. I couldn't recommend it highly enough and it made our separation a little more bearable. If any woman would like to talk to me about my experience of continuing with breastfeeding, or if you need a little encouragement, give me a call on Extn: 27930" Donna Kearney

"i would just like to commend ESB and all involved in setting up this breastfeeding room, it's great to see that ESB are well ahead in this area! My wife, who works in the Health Service, has just returned to work after having our second child. At her place of employment, a hospital, there are no 'breastfeeding support facilities' available. In Ireland, the percentage of breastfeeding mothers is low compared to other countries worldwide. It is crucial that the benefits of breastfeeding are publicised and that all stigma shaken off! It needs to be accepted fully by all in our daily lives as something that is very natural and important for the baby. I hope that information on breastfeeding and the room is made available to women in ESB who are currently pregnant and about to go on maternity leave so that their decision on breastfeeding will be easier to make. Unfortunately, being a man, I will not be able to take advantage of this facility, but I hope it is used by many new ESB Mums to come! Well done!" William A. Mongey