{"id":50305,"date":"2024-08-28T13:22:21","date_gmt":"2024-08-28T10:22:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/?p=50305"},"modified":"2024-09-11T13:16:14","modified_gmt":"2024-09-11T10:16:14","slug":"returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave\/","title":{"rendered":"Returning to Work After Maternity Leave"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Returning to work after your maternity leave is a significant milestone that brings in a mix of emotions, adjustments, and challenges for you to overcome. Having embraced the joys of parenthood for weeks, to re-enter the work-life it is essential to equip yourself with the emotional support, and helpful tools needed to navigate this process successfully. How can we make this process as smooth as possible both for us and for our little ones? With the right steps and the right products. Let\u2019s see how we can manage this, just as comfy as a baby dosing off on your lap.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_69_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave\/#Seeking_Emotional_Support\" title=\"Seeking Emotional Support\">Seeking Emotional Support<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave\/#Being_Patient_and_Gentle_with_Yourself\" title=\"Being Patient and Gentle with Yourself\u00a0\">Being Patient and Gentle with Yourself\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave\/#Setting_Priorities_and_Finding_Balance\" title=\"Setting Priorities and Finding Balance\">Setting Priorities and Finding Balance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/returning-to-work-after-maternity-leave\/#Utilising_Helpful_Products\" title=\"Utilising Helpful Products\">Utilising Helpful Products<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Seeking_Emotional_Support\"><\/span><b><br \/>\nSeeking Emotional Support<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After months of bonding with your baby and creating the warmest of memories as you experience the world together, it can be hard to have it in you to get back to the office. One of the most critical aspects of returning to work after your maternity leave is emotional strength. From the excitement of re-engaging with an old aspect of life to the anxiety of leaving your baby to another caregiver, this stage evokes a wide range of emotions, and having a strong system to back you up works wonders in this stage of life. To get yourself started, it is important to acknowledge these emotions and recognise that they are entirely normal. Surrounding yourself with a community who have been through the same can be a source of comfort. Whether it is talking to friends who are also working parents, scrolling in forums, joining a support group, or seeking guidance from a specialist, having people around you who understand your struggle makes a huge difference. When dealing with such an issue, it is just as important to reach out as it is to acknowledge the issue. Do not hesitate to reach out to your partner, family members or close friends, as sharing your feelings openly with those you can trust can help alleviate the stress, and reassure you that you are not alone in this journey. At work, it may be helpful for you to have an open conversation with your supervisor about your transition back to work. Many employers offer flexible working hours during this period, and having a slow adjustment can also be just as helpful in this process, to slowly balance out your work and family life.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Being_Patient_and_Gentle_with_Yourself\"><\/span><b><br \/>\nBeing Patient and Gentle with Yourself\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your patience and gentleness towards yourself in this process are key, as you adjust to a new routine that involves balancing many different aspects and this is no small feat, it is essential to give yourself grace during this time. After weeks of staying at home, you may feel like your focus is not quite where it used to be and you may feel more emotional. It is important for you as a new mother that these feelings are normal, and a part of the process. Allow yourself the space to adjust, without high expectations. Delegate tasks, lean on your support system, and please be aware that you do not have to do everything on your own. This period of your life can be a rough patch and every small win counts! Whether it is making it through the workday, or successfully expressing milk on a busy schedule, every win is a win and it matters. Do not ignore that you are putting in so much effort, and do not be too hard on yourself if things do not go perfectly. Just like everything, you will find your own rhythm with time and feel more confident in yourself to balance both worlds.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Setting_Priorities_and_Finding_Balance\"><\/span><b><br \/>\nSetting Priorities and Finding Balance<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clear boundaries allow us to navigate this process smoothly. After identifying what matters most to you as an individual, understanding your priorities and planning your days according to them will guide your decisions and help you manage your time effectively. Establishing boundaries between work and home life also helps you achieve balance. Setting limits on work hours, creating a designated workspace at home, or ensuring that weekends are dedicated to family time sets clear boundaries. Managing your energy is just as important as managing your time. Raising a baby is both physically and emotionally demanding, and returning to work adds another layer of complexity. When possible, make sure to spare some time for your self-care, for taking care of yourself will make you more effective in both your personal and professional roles. From regular exercise to mindfulness practices, or simply taking a few minutes each day to relax and recharge, taking care of yourself always benefits you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Utilising_Helpful_Products\"><\/span><b><br \/>\nUtilising Helpful Products<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With work life, the time we can spend with our baby dwindles and our peace of mind can get just as affected. During these times, certain products can provide us the peace and help to ensure our bond with our babies is not affected.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Breast Pumps:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A reliable breast pump is essential to ensure your comfort, especially during a possibly difficult time. From <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/manual-breast-pumps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">manual breast pumps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/electric-breast-pumps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">electric breast pumps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, various types of pumps exist to provide the best for every mother, and with a small research you can find the best one for you just as well. To find the best breast pump for yourself, make sure to check our article on \u201c<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/how-to-find-the-right-breast-pump\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Find the Right Breast Pump?<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Milk Storage Bags:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Pairing your breast pump with the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/milk-storage-bags-bottles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">best milk storage bags<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> ensures that your baby has access to breast milk even when you are not home, and without losing any nutrients.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bottles: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bottles designed to mimic the breastfeeding experience can make feeding smoother for your baby, ensuring your peace of mind and the comfort of your caregiver. Easy-to-clean, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/bottles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BPA-free bottles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/anti-colic\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">anti-colic bottles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are the best for ticking all these boxes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Safety Gear: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety comes first. A dependable <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/baby-monitors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">baby monitor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can help you keep an eye on your baby even when you are at work whether it is a traditional <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/audio-baby-monitors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">audio baby monitor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/video-baby-monitors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">video baby monitor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> one with live feed. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/door-stair-gates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety gates<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/guards-locks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">latches and locks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and corner cushions also keep your mind at ease, preventing your baby from accessing dangerous areas.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Activity Toys: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Providing another source of fun, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/activity-toys\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">activity toys<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can help keep your baby engaged and content while you are apart. From <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/sensory\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sensory toys<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that stimulate development while keeping them entertained to comforting items like their favourite <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ebebek.co.uk\/collections\/soft-toys\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">soft toy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or blanket, these products can provide comfort, development and distraction all at the same time.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Returning to work after your maternity leave is a significant milestone that brings in a mix of emotions, adjustments, and challenges for you to&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":77147,"featured_media":50306,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[559,477,478,511],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-50305","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-parenting","category-ages-stages","category-baby-development","category-toddler","article","has-background","has-excerpt","has-avatar","has-author","has-date","has-comment-count","has-category-meta","has-read-more","thumbnail-"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50305","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/77147"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=50305"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50305\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":50307,"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50305\/revisions\/50307"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/50306"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=50305"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=50305"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bebek.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=50305"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}