What is one piece of advice you wish you could offer your former expectant self?

Do what you feel is best for you and your family.

FOR MOMS: If you breastfed, was there a place for you to pump that met your needs and was conducive to your success? If you breastfed, how did you decide to continue? FOR DADS: What, if any, adjustments did you (or your workplace) make to your schedule after having a baby? Was it specific to your manager or larger, whole work culture?

I wanted to provide the best possible option for my child. I planned to breastfeed, but if for some reason, I was unable to, I didn’t have any problem giving her formula. Luckily, I didn’t have many issues breastfeeding and we’re still going strong at 16 months.

How much leave did you take, and how comfortable were you taking it?

I was allowed to take up to 12 weeks, but went back after 8 weeks because it was completely unpaid. It was really really hard to leave my daughter, but I was very blessed that my grandmother could keep her for her whole first year.

What was your biggest challenge going back to work?

I was worried about missing out on her growing up.

Who was your biggest source of support in returning to work? What was your biggest pregnancy indulgence?

Yes, I had a pregnant co-worker that just had her son and I’ve passed along tons of advice and helped be someone she can come to with any questions.

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