‘I wish I gave myself some more time’: Masaba Gupta reflects on returning to work before completing 40 days postpartum

Proper rest and care helps to manage this process better and prevent chronic conditions such as pelvic floor disorders, back pain, and persistent fatigue, he added.

Masaba Gupta’s Instagram story (Source: Instagram/@masabagupta)

During the initial weeks, Dr Ajinkya said that mothers and babies learn to breastfeed, which requires patience and energy. Hormonal shifts may cause mood swings, fatigue, and emotional vulnerability (post-partum blues). Adequate rest and a calm environment reduce the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety.

“The first few weeks are also vital for bonding. Skin-to-skin contact, feeding, and nurturing help to build a strong connection between mother and baby and also enhances the baby’s emotional development. Caring for a newborn is very exhausting, especially with irregular sleep schedules. Taking it easy allows the mother to conserve energy for essential tasks,” he added.

Many cultures recognise the postpartum period as a time for rejuvenation, providing new mothers with nourishing food, massage, and rest.

What can new moms do to make their transition back to work easy?

For new mothers planning to return to work, Dr Ajinkya shared some key tips:

• Develop a healthy lifestyle – Prioritize rest and healing. Eat healthy. Sleep adequately. Light exercise. No addictive substance use. Establish a routine with the baby e.g. sleep and feeding schedules
• Partner with family members to share responsibilities and lighten your load – Arrange for family members, or if no family support, then childcare nannies, during this period.
• Allow time for trial runs to ensure your baby adjusts comfortably. Create systems for managing household tasks, such as meal preparations or delegating certain chores to others.
• Connect with other family members/friends for advice, emotional support, and tips on transitioning back to work.

• Enhance communication with your partner – Try to share responsibilities and plan how you and your partner can divide baby care and household duties once you resume work.
• Communicate with your employer about your return date, possibility of flexible hours, or remote work options. Ask about workplace policies for breastfeeding mothers at your work place, such as lactation rooms or breaks for pumping. Stay updated by checking emails occasionally or asking colleagues about any major developments at work.
• Practice time management by simulating a workday routine to identify potential challenges in balancing baby care and work responsibilities. Review workplace benefits like parental leave, healthcare, or flexible spending accounts to optimize resources. If you plan to continue breastfeeding after returning to work, learn about breast pumping. Get familiar with equipment and practice using a breast pump. Learn how to store milk safely.
• Postpartum emotions are natural; seek help from a mental health professional if you feel overwhelmed or anxious about returning to work.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.