your new family career
Make a work plan: Do you have the option of working remotely?
I punctuated my medical school training, the rigors of residency and the tortuous roads of private practice with four babies and a blossoming marriage, while leaving plenty of time to practice medicine. Being a fi rst-time parent can be
overwhelming. Know that this is normal — and adopt a calm, resolute mindset as you begin this new chap- ter of your life. Here are tips to help you along the way.
Stay Positive and Organized Start planning before you deliver, ideally during your second trimester. Create your birth plan, organize the nursery, and get all the equip- ment for your baby’s needs. A delivery check- list app is available on most smartphones. Enlist the help of loved ones and supporters
Consider your career goals after delivery, and put them into action
throughout the process. Delegate tasks whenever possible. If you plan on breastfeed- ing, educate yourself on the basics of nursing and pumping early on to ease into the process. Don’t pump before delivery, which can make your uterus contract early. Make a work plan: Do you have the option of working remotely, delegating your tasks to a colleague or taking a hiatus? Think about your career goals after delivery, and put them into action. Having a master schedule is important. Use technology to align your work and family schedules.
Be Flexible and Adaptable Even when you plan things to a T, they sometimes go off-course. That’s ok! During
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my training to be a doctor, I became pregnant with my fi rst and second babies. I continued my training and took a short leave after delivery to enjoy motherhood, to establish a proper milk fl ow for nursing and to recover. If you choose to return to work after a few weeks, focus on your baby’s routine, and plan childcare. Your partner and family supporters are integral as you make these plans. If you have other children, engage them in childcare with supervision. This promotes family togeth- erness and bonding, and allows you to spend your time on other tasks.
Press Your Reset Button Talk to your provider about maintaining a well-balanced, nutritious diet and a daily exer- cise regimen. Take walks with your newborn, sync your sleep schedule with your baby’s and eat your colors (plenty of fruits and veggies!). Take care of your mind, body and soul to refresh your energy and to give you the clarity needed to navigate the roads of parenthood.
Farzanna S. Haffi zulla, MD, FACP, is President of the American Medical Women’s Association and author of Lead with Your Heart: A Doctor’s Rx for Personal and Professional Success and Harmony of the Spheres: Career, Family and Community — A Working Mom’s Lessons of Love, Strength and Balance. For more information, visit
BusyMomMD.com.
www.youandyourfamily.com
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