Returning to your job after maternity leave can be a smooth process, if you plan it right
By Dr Michelle LIM, Associate Consultant and Associate Professor Tan Thiam Chye, Visiting Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital
Time flies — and not just because your little one will be walking and talking before you know it. You may be planning to return to work in the near future. Looking to make the transition from maternity leave to meetings as smooth as possible? Here are some things to consider.
You can engage a family member (such as your mother-in-law), nanny or domestic helper to look after your baby. Whichever option you choose, be sure to discuss with them your wishes for childcare — such as the amount of stimulation and playtime, or when bath time should happen — so that your baby's routine is not disrupted.
Ideally, you and your husband don't smoke, or have quit smoking before your pregnancy. Many of us are familiar with the dangers of second-hand smoke, but are you aware of the detriments of third-hand smoke? This refers to toxins from smoke that settle in furniture, clothing and hair, which can be absorbed by your baby upon contact. So if your child is being cared for in a new environment, ask that they refrain from smoking.
Returning to work needn't disrupt your breastfeeding routine — some forward planning would help. Here are the things you could do:
Copyright © 2016 HealthHub.sg. All rights reserved.
Visit Parent Hub, for more useful tips and guides to give your baby a healthy start.
Download the HealthHub app on Google Play or Apple Store to access more health and wellness advice at your fingertips.
Read these next:
Sources:
The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth 2008, World Scientific
Healthy Start for your Pregnancy 2012, Health Promotion Board Singapore
This article was last reviewed on 06 Jul 2021
Related Articles
Related Stories
With early and effective treatment, people living with HIV can lead lives no different from others. Get tested to know your HIV status.
Subsidised health screening for Singapore Citizens.
Check out our tips on how you can live well together, and test your knowledge on healthy living. Whether it’s eating healthy, staying active, going for health screening, or caring for your mental well-being, it’s never too late to start your journey!
Browse Live Healthy