(Written from my own perspective as a former US Navy active duty Sailor)
Navigating the military system as a pregnant active duty service member, reservist, or military spouse comes with its own sets of challenges. Among other things, changing duty stations, deployment/underway schedules, rotating care providers, and updated policies make it much more difficult when you’re ready to embrace pregnancy and beyond.
Uniforms
Every single item of a military uniform has its own policy for fit and replacement. It’s important to inform yourself on the manner of wear, especially as your body changes during and after pregnancy. As soon as possible, contact your administrative department and/or personnel support to request a maternity uniform allowance. Please note: if this isn’t your first child born while you are in the military, there are stipulations on the number of stipends you can receive in a certain amount of time. Also, research the instructions on what uniform is required to return to work in once maternity leave is complete. Some branches have a waiver policy, at the Commanding Officer’s discretion, if there is a medical reason for the service member to continue wearing a maternity uniform post-birth. Additionally, be sure to “test wear” the uniform before the first day back at work. I’m not ashamed to admit I had to wear a larger pant size for several months (even after staying home for 12 weeks on maternity leave) before returning to my pre-pregnancy pants. Our bodies just did something amazing so try not to get too caught up in what size you wear! But on that note…
Physical Training (PT)
There’s a theme here. Research and comprehend the instruction. While it’s important to continue exercising (with your medical professional’s approval, of course), know your limits. Don’t be too hard on yourself if during pregnancy it feels impossible to keep up with everyone else. Your body is creating life; it takes a lot of work! Modify the exercise routine as needed. Stay hydrated. Take more breaks. Similar to the uniform policy above, there is also an instruction addressing PT gear during pregnancy and what the requirements are for physical training tests after your return to work. Each military branch allows for a period of time for the service member to become re-acclimated to physical training in order to prepare for an eventual physical readiness test. Use this time wisely because, before you know it, it will be time to prove your body has what it takes to continue being an active part of the US military.
Convalescent Leave
Not only is there maternity leave there’s also paternity leave to consider. Maternity leave policies have seen a wave of changes the past few years. It was once confusing the time differences for each branch: the U.S. Army authorized 6 weeks, the U.S. Navy provided 18 weeks. Effective 2016, all branches of the military allow 12 continuous weeks of paid maternity leave to uniformed service members. For now, paternity leave is capped at 10 days, but (as of this writing) the Defense Department is seeking legislation to expand military paternity leave from the current 10 day leave benefit to a 14-day non-continuous leave benefit.
Breastfeeding
Enroll in every available breastfeeding class! Even if you think you don’t want to/can’t breastfeed, the information is valuable (and the other connections you make are priceless). These classes are taught by certified lactation consultants or nurses with years of experience. Even before returning to work, research what your options (and what is allowed in your branch’s publications) are for being able to nurse while in the field or at your workplace. As an AD Sailor, the Navy had provisions for me to be able to take ample breaks and pump breast milk for my daughter. Fortunately, by keeping my chain of command in the loop on what my plans were, I had the support I needed to pump several times a day and even nurse my daughter inside the building’s Mother’s Room. Remember that many hospitals, not just those serving the military, offer postpartum breastfeeding support classes and help if you are struggling. Advocate for yourself and your baby. Explore the book “Breastfeeding in Combat Boots: A Survival Guide to Successful Breastfeeding While Serving in the Military” written by Robyn Roche-Paull (a Navy veteran who successfully breastfed while on active duty) which details each military branch’s policies. I had the pleasure of meeting Robyn when she instructed a beginner’s breastfeeding class I attended. She is an advocate on behalf of each military member who chooses to breastfeed and has dedicated her time to ensuring service member mamas have the support they deserve.
There’s no “right” way to mom. The military is more than a full time job; with the addition of a little person it becomes an overwhelming task to balance a family and a lifestyle, but I promise it can be done! Bring uncertainty to the table and involve your chain of command with questions, concerns, or even solutions to issues you see other military moms going through.
As always, you’re doing a great job!
