Pumping Breastmilk: 5 Tips For New Moms
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When my son was born I knew I wanted to breastfeed him, or at least try to. I was really lucky that he latched minutes after birth without much assistance. I had heard stories after stories of moms who wanted to breastfeed but were unable to for a number of reasons (latch issues, lack of milk production, etc). So to say I was relieved that he latched would be an understatement.
I also knew that I wanted to eventually pump for the convenience factor and so that others (like my husband) could feed my baby boy as well. I had a pretty inexpensive and small breast pump, a few bottles, and no real agenda on my mind for pumping. I mean, it’s just pumping — how hard could it be?
I was really naive to think that pumping breastmilk was going to be easy peasy, with no real gameplan behind it. My son seemed satisfied whenever I nursed him, so plenty of milk should come out when I pump, right? I should have a fridge stock pilled with milk for him at all times, right? Wrong.
Pumping breastmilk was actually a lot more complicated than I thought it would be. Sure, there are plenty of moms out there who can literally feed a village because they can produce so much when pumping. But for the rest of us, there are a few simple tips to follow to get the most out of your time pumping breastmilk.
1. When To Start Pumping
Start pumping when it makes sense for you and your baby. Some moms want to exclusively pump, which means you can start pumping immediately after giving birth. But keep in mind you may or may not produce a lot at first. Don’t get discouraged if it’s not a lot at first. Keep pumping!
If you are nursing and you begin to feel engorged in between feedings, it could be time for you to start pumping and storing. If you chose not to pump right away, you can wait and start pumping until after you have established a breastfeeding routine with your baby.
2. Pump At The Right Times
It is important to pump at the right times. Most women notice that they produce more in the mornings than in the evenings. If this is the case for you, pump every morning at the same time, if possible. Keeping a routine can help your body maintain its milk production.
By pumping every day at, let’s say 8 am, you are telling your body that you need 5 ounces (or whatever amount you produce) every day at that exact time. If you are pumping all over the clock, it can be harder for your body to maintain the same output of milk. Routine, routine, routine!
3. Be Patient and Relaxed
Make sure you are giving yourself enough time. It takes time to prep both yourself and your equipment, and it takes time to fully pump each side completely. Make sure you are washing your hands, wearing appropriate clothing, and have clean equipment that you can use to pump and store your milk in right away.
It is always best to be in a relaxed state of mind while pumping. Being stressed can actually cause a shortage on your milk output. Do whatever makes you feel most relaxed, whether that is meditating, scrolling through your phone, or watching TV.
Try massaging your breasts before pumping to help stimulate milk production.
Still struggling with milk output? Check out this article here for help.
4. Milk Storage
Store the milk right away! Whether you are storing the milk in the fridge or freezer, store it immediately after pumping to ensure the best quality. Store your expressed milk in bottles or storage bags if it is going into the fridge. Freshly expressed milk can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you are freezing your milk, make sure you are using freezer bags, do not freeze breastmilk in bottles. Frozen breastmilk can last in the freezer for 6-12 months.
5. Have The Right Equipment
Having the proper equipment can make the world of a difference for you. Breastpump, bottles, nipple cream, bra, the right clothing, and nursing pads are all essential for having a better breast pumping experience.
Invest in one of the best pumps and you will immediately see an improvement in your pumping experience and milk output. It’s always best to have extra pump parts on hand in case a part breaks, is lost, or is dirty when you need to pump ASAP.
Top 3 Best Breast Pumps:
- Spectra S1PLUS (Target or Amazon)
- Lansinoh Smartpump (Target or Amazon)
- Medela Pump in Style (Target or Amazon)
Bottles
Always have extra bottles on hand. This is especially helpful if you are using bottles to store the expressed milk in the fridge. When in doubt, Anti-Colic area always a great choice to help reduce the amount of air your baby is intaking while feeding.
- Philips Avent Anti-colic Baby Bottle (Target or Amazon)
- Tommee Tippee Advanced Anti-Colic Bottle (Target or Amazon)
- Smilo Baby Anti-Colic Bottles (Amazon)
Nipple Cream
When you are just starting out with breastfeeding and pumping it can really take a toll on your nipples. Before you start nursing and pumping have a nipple cream on hand. You will be happy to have it exactly when you need it (like in the hospital), rather than wait until you are in pain with cracked nipples.
Try bamboobies, an organic option that is soothing for you and safe for baby!
Nursing Bra
Find a nursing bra that is not only super functional for breastfeeding and pumping, but something that helps you feel put together and beautiful. Check out this one at Nordstrom and feel beautiful!
Nursing Pads
Nursing pads are essential for nursing and pumping. Let’s be honest — you will leak! You need these to help protect your bra and clothing from getting drenched.
For more essentials for new moms, check out this article here!
Don’t let breast pumping intimidate you at all! Once you get in a routine that works for you, pumping can become a breeze! Always remember to stay in a positive, relaxed mindset to ensure the best letdown!
Good luck Mama!
