Pumping breast milk can make a new mother’s life much simpler when nursing their infant. It allows the mother to store as much or as little milk as they wish so they can provide for the baby’s feeding. While a breast pump can take some getting used to, when you are used to it the pump can be highly beneficial. This article will provide information on how to choose the correct pump, how to pump breast milk, and how to store the milk for the best results.
Which Breast Pump Should I Use?
The first step to using a breast pump is to choose the correct type of breast pump. Currently, there are two types of pumps – manual and electric breast pumps – and each of these devices has benefits and disadvantages. To choose the most suitable option it is important to take certain considerations into account, such as your budget, your preference, and the baby’s needs.
1. The Manual Pump
The manual breast pump is the more straightforward option and is less costly. This item comes with a shield and a plunging device. The shield is placed over the nipple, while the plunger expresses the milk into a milk bottle. Manual pumps are popular because of the low price and the ease of use; however, this device is not practical for females who plan on bottle-feeding the infant using pumped milk. The manual pump can take longer to express milk and will require both hands for the task.
2. The Electric Pump
The electric pump is also simple to use and is much speedier than the manual breast pump. This option allows the person to “flip a switch” and the device will express milk without manual massaging of the breast. The automatic feature makes it a beneficial option, but electric pumps are more costly and well-known brands can cost approximately $100 to $1,000.
When Should I Use the Breast Pump?
Each mother has certain preferences when it comes to choosing the pumping time. Premature infants may need to be bottle-fed from the first day; therefore, using a breast pump immediately is recommended. In the majority of cases, however, it is advised that you wait approximately three weeks before introducing the infant to the bottle avoiding “nipple confusion“. Of course, the choice is yours as a mother and each case is personal.
If you are planning to begin using a breast pump when returning to work, it is recommended that you practice pumping beforehand to become used to the sensation. If you wish to begin pumping before you are ready to bottle-feed the infant, you can freeze the breast milk for later use. It is advised that you allow your schedule to be navigated by your baby’s feeding routine. Keep in mind the more that you pump the more breast milk you produce and the easier it is to feed the infant.
How Do I Use the Breast Pump?
Regardless of which type of breast pump you are using, it is important that you remain relaxed. The pumping procedure is simple, but it can be uncomfortable if you are feeling tense during the process. It is vital that you find a space that feels peaceful and allow yourself plenty of time to perform breast pumping because rushing the procedure can make it more challenging.
When pumping, it is advised that you encourage breast “letdown“. This means that the milk will move down into the breasts and flow easily into the breast pump. Massaging the breasts and wrapping them in a warm cloth can promote letdown.
Final Words
As can be seen, breast milk pumping is not a difficult task; however, it does require some considerations. By using the information above you can determine if pumping milk is the best option for your needs.
