I just returned to work a couple of weeks ago when my daughter was 10 weeks old. It is hard sometimes to get away to pump when it gets busy. I can usually get away 2-3 times per day, but I don't always get very much out when I pump. Sometimes it is more than enough for a feeding and sometimes it is only a few ounces. I try to take in enough breastmilk for three full sized feedings at daycare. I also pump in the mornings before I go to work, after I have fed Avery. I am usually really full in the mornings after not having nursed for 7 hours or so. I can usually feed her on just one side and pump out what's left to send to daycare along with the milk I pumped from work the day before. As long as you can get away at least once at work, you should be ok. It is hard to take breaks sometimes at work and explain what you're doing and why you need a few minutes, but it is worth it. I wish it was easier for me to pump at work, but I want to give my daughter the best food I can. You might see a slight drop in milk production, but your body will adjust to when you still nurse at home and how much milk you need. I agree that it depends on how important it is for you. If you don't mind the idea of weaning, it is certainly easier. Another thing you can do is to start pumping now before you go back to work. Do it as much as you can between feedings and freeze the milk. Then you will have a back supply on hand that you can thaw and use if you don't pump enough at work to last a whole day. Supplementing with formula is not a bad choice either. My daughter takes formula once in a while and she has no problem with it. If you want to continue nursing, do it. Your body will find a way to adjust. I think if you enjoy nursing you should at least continue it at home regardless of what you fo at work. Good luck with whatever you choose.
