You just went through the intense and joyful transition of introducing a new human into the world and now, after just weeks, you’re heading back to work. Talk about one intense change after another! You might be nervous, can you really keep breastfeeding while you’re working? Will you find time to pump? Yes. You can continue breastfeeding after you’ve started working again.

The key to keeping up your breastfeeding relationship is preparedness. Start by evaluating how much time you will be able to take off from work. Because six weeks is the norm, we’ll use that as an example, but you can of course adjust timing if you have more or less time available.

Spend the first three weeks just relishing in the special bonding time that nursing provides. This allows you to relax, build strong connections, and establish a proper latch with your new baby. At three weeks, it’s time to start pumping! Many women pump and find it totally doable, and you too can succeed at this.

The best way to train your body to make more milk is to continue pumping after you baby goes to bed at night. This way, your body will naturally adapt to the need for extra milk, and you can stockpile it for when you’re away.

Before you return to work, make sure that you’ll have the space and respect necessary to pump. The Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 gives nursing mothers the right for reasonable time and space (other than the bathroom) to breastfeed for at least the first year after the baby is born. But because not all employers comply, and the law doesn’t apply to companies with less than 50 employees, make sure to ask questions in advance. The United States Breastfeeding Committee’s website is an excellent resource for you and your employer regarding any questions you may have.

If possible, ask to check out the space available to you before returning to work full time. This way, you can make sure it has everything you need, like an electrical outlet, a stand for your pump, and a comfortable place to sit. Knowing before you go back that you’ll have adequate space, lighting, and an electrical outlet. If you feel a little embarrassed about bringing up pumping, know your rights and remember just how normal it is.

The good news is that, because of the Affordable Care Act, your insurance plan will likely cover the cost of a pump and accessories. Additionally, many hospitals have pumps available to rent. There are manual as well as electric options, but if you’re pumping more than once a day, opt for the fast, efficient electric option.  If you’re able to get two pumps, this may be helpful so you don’t have to worry about bringing a pump back and forth between home and work. However, this isn’t necessary, as most pumps come with a handy carrying case.

Work into your daily schedule times to pump about every three hours. This encourages your body to produce a regular milk flow. Ideally, it will take about 10-15 minutes to pump both breasts if you’re using a double pump. In addition to the time it takes to pump, plan for the time it takes to prepare as well as clean up. Since it’s easier to pump when you’re relaxed, give yourself plenty of time so that you’re not feeling rushed. Put a “do not disturb” note outside of the room you’re using to ensure that you’re not bothered by knocking or people trying to come in. Before you start, make a checklist and gather everything you might want so that it’ll all be within your reach when you’re pumping.

You might find it difficult to get much milk at first, but it will become easier with time. Stick to your schedule and your body will get used to it. You may find it helpful to gently massage your breasts or to look at a picture of your baby in preparation for pumping. It also might help to put warm compresses on your breasts to stimulate let-down and milk flow. And don’t forget to eat a healthy snack and have water on hand!

Be prepared for the occasional milk leakage while you’re at work. Try to stick to your schedule and pumping every three hours can help prevent leakage, but realize it’s a normal occurrence that happens to many mothers. Nursing pads are effective at preventing leaking in the first place, so make sure to have plenty of clean, dry ones on hand when you’re away from home. Wearing dark clothing with prints helps cover up leaks. But at the end of the day, leakage is something nearly every breastfeeding mother experiences and not something to be embarrassed about.

The final component to planning is choosing a care provider who understands your commitment and dedication to feeding your baby with breast milk. You’ll want someone who knows how to handle human milk and how to care for a nursing baby. This Caregiver’s Guide to the Breastfed Baby is comprehensive and easy to understand, as is this article from the Breastfeeding Reporter Blog.

Juggling your new schedule and learning to pump will take some time to learn, but you’ll do a great job. There are so many helpful books and websites for breastfeeding moms returning to work, and you can always ask your healthcare provider for advice, too. Your baby will be happier and healthier because of your hard work and dedication!