4 Helpful Tips on Breast Pumping May 4, 2015 08:38

While formula can be a good alternative to breastfeeding for babies, many mothers still choose to breastfeed, as it has shown to have several benefits for babies. But breastfeeding is definitely a commitment, particularly if you will be spending time away from baby such as for work. If you will be pumping, you will find that it, like nursing itself, also has somewhat of a learning curve. Luckily, we have 4 great tips for breast pumping to share.

1. Get Comfortable

Pumping away from home, such as in the work place, might feel awkward at first. Unfortunately, this can make it difficult to pump. Instead, it is best to concentrate on becoming comfortable. Relax with some music, and maybe by establishing a routine. Choosing the same place, at around the same time, every time can also help put your body in the right mind set to pump milk. Regular pumping at the same time also helps keep your milk flow regular. Waiting too long to pump can cause discomfort, engorgement, and a decrease in milk supply.

2. Think of Baby

If you are still having some trouble with milk flow, you may want to try looking at pictures of your baby, or smelling a piece of clothing or other item that still holds your baby’s smell. Listening to a recording of your baby’s cries or other noises can also help, or even taking a moment to imagine that your baby is with you. Other methods for stimulating milk flow are breast massage, applying a warm compress to the breast, and breast compression.

3. Proper Storage

If you are away from your baby, you will need to store the milk until you can get it to your baby later. As a rule, breast milk can be kept at room temperature for about 8 hours if fresh. It is, however, best to keep it cool if possible. In an insulated cooler, the milk can be kept for about 24 hours, whereas it can last about 5 days in the fridge. For longer storage, a freezer in a refrigerator-freezer combination can keep milk for about 2 weeks, a stand-alone freezer for 3 to 6 months, and a deep freezer at a constant 0 degrees Fahrenheit anywhere from 6 to 12 months. Keep breast milk in bottles or in BPA-free bags.

4. Other Considerations

If you are having problems with milk supply, make sure you are properly hydrated. In fact, it may be helpful to get in the habit of drinking a glass or two of water before pumping. You may also wish to increase the frequency of pumping and feedings. Breast milk works with supply and demand; the more demand your baby seems to have for milk, the more your body should produce. Also, try to avoid sharing or borrowing personal pumps. While hospital-grade pumps that can be rented are designed to be used by multiple women, personal breast pumps are made with single use in mind, and have parts that are difficult if not impossible to clean and sterilize.