Intending to breastfeed and work.

Many women who return to the work force during the first year following the births of their infants plan to combine breastfeeding and work; yet little is known about the process of preparing for the transition from breastfeeding in the home to continuing to breastfeed while employed. A study was conducted to explore mothers' decision-making processes during this transition. Interviews were conducted with 61 urban Canadian mothers who intended to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. Participants revealed that, although they intended to continue breastfeeding, whether or not they actually did depended on many factors that were beyond their control. These mothers had to play it by ear. They made elaborate plans, as well as back-up plans, allowing for all possible eventualities.