Breastfeeding Basics - Pumping Breast Milk

Even if you are not going back to work, you may
still want to invest in a breast pump and learn how
to use it. Pumping can be useful to relieve
engorgement, to help stimulate milk production
and of course to have milk on hand if you need
to be away from your baby for more than a few hours. If you are planning to use your pump only occasionally, a manual one will probably be fine or you can even learn to hand express. However, if you are planning to go back to work you will want to invest in a high quality electric pump.

Before You Go Back to Work

Managing pumping at work takes some planning, so don’t wait till your first day back to start the process. Instead, start pumping a few weeks before you go back. This will give you time to get used to pumping and troubleshoot any problems you might have. It will also allow you to store enough milk for your first few days of work.

Depending on your work environment, you may need to talk to your boss to make sure you have access to the time and the space you need to pump. Pumping takes about ten to 15 minutes a session and you will probably need to pump about every three hours, more if your baby is still very young. Of course, you will want a clean, private and hopefully quiet place to pump with a conveniently located electrical outlet. You will also need a place to keep your pump when you are not using it, as well as the milk that you express.

Pumping Tips

Pumping breast milk should not be difficult if you are using your pump correctly. It is important to make sure that you use the correct size nipple shields and that you position them properly. Most breast pumps are adjustable, so take the time to find the setting that works best for you. It may feel a little strange at first, but it won’t take long to get used to the tugging sensation.

Some mothers have difficulty with let-down. Looking at a picture of you baby will probably help. Your cell phone can be a big help here. Not only can you load it up with pictures or even videos of your baby, but you may also be able to record your baby making happy babbling sounds.

Make sure to stay hydrated. Drinking a glass of water or juice just before or while pumping can help with your milk supply.

Be sure to wash your equipment with warm soapy water after every use. Air drying is best if possible. Your expressed breast milk is precious, so be sure to check our article on storing breast milk to be sure you are storing yours safely.