Pumping is a great way to provide milk for your baby when you need to balance breastfeeding with all the other things going on in your life. These tips and tricks for first-time pumping, along with a little practice, can go a long way toward getting the most out of your breast pump.
When to Pump
Many moms find they have the most success when they pump first thing in the morning. Resting has allowed their milk supply to replenish.
Returning to Work as a Pumping Mom
Going back to work requires more planning because you’ll want to have ample breast milk saved in advance. To build your supply, pump daily after your baby has nursed, or try power pumping, as this helps ensure you have drained all the milk and signals your body to make more. You can store the excess in your freezer.
When you’re back at work, pump at the times when your baby would feed, then safely store the milk and bring it home to add to your freezer stash.
SEE ALSO: Pumping Tips: Making It Work at Work
How to Pump
For some moms, learning to pump happens quickly and easily, while for others, it can take a little more practice before it becomes second nature. Here are some pumping tips and tricks to get you started, but remember that it might take some time to get the hang of it:
- “Wake up” your breasts by massaging or leaning over and gently shaking them.
- Relaxation is key to getting your milk to flow freely. Some moms find that looking at a photo of their baby and listening to soothing music helps.
- Close your eyes, shut out the world, think of your sweet baby—this has been shown to help with let-down and milk flow.
- To pump, center the nipple in the flange (the cone-like parts that go on the breast). Your breast should completely fill the flange to create a vacuum. Tilt the tunnel slightly downward to allow the milk to flow naturally into the bottle. If you cannot achieve or maintain a vacuum, you may need a different size flange.
- Plan on a 20-minute pumping session, but know that this will vary – some moms take more or less time.
- Don’t get discouraged if your output initially seems low. By pumping, you’re telling your body to keep producing milk, and over time, you’ll begin to see increased output.
- To build your freezer supply, use your breast pump after nursing, add extra sessions when baby is sleeping, or try the power pumping technique.
You've got this, mama!
All content found on the Lansinoh.com website, including text, images, audio, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
