Milk supply can be a big concern for new moms, and pumping can help. Using a breast pump might seem scary at first, but trust us: it’s totally doable and can make your life as a breastfeeding mama much more manageable. Here’s what you need to know about pumping to keep your milk supply going strong.
The importance of consistent breast milk expression
While you’re breastfeeding, your baby is going to be on a schedule, and it’s crucial to maintain that schedule, even when you are apart. Just the act of pumping during those times can strengthen your milk supply because emptying your breasts will signal your body to start making more milk. Lactation experts recommend pumping more frequently, rather than for longer stretches, to keep your things moving. This usually means pumping about every 2-3 hours, but what’s most important is to be consistent from day to day. In addition, you can even try pumping immediately after you breastfeed to boost your milk production.
Finding the right equipment for pumping
Don’t be surprised if choosing a breast pump is a little like selecting a new coffeemaker, with several features, options, and styles to consider. These include single or double, manual or electric (or maybe a lot like a coffee maker?), and different settings for speed, suction, and more. Your choice will depend on your lifestyle, how often you plan to pump, cost, and other factors, but if milk supply is a concern, then you may want to consider a pump that is electric, hospital-grade, double, or all three. The good news is that many mamas have already completed hours of testing on many of the products out there. Check out this guide or this one for a few reputable picks. In addition, make sure you have flanges that fit you properly and that you are attaching them correctly to ensure maximum suction. If pumping is painful or a major struggle, ask for help.
Getting into the mood
Having skin-to-skin contact with your baby while breastfeeding helps to stimulate your milk supply, and those warm and fuzzy feelings can be compromised when you’re pumping, especially if you’re away from your baby or in an uncomfortable environment. When you’re ready to pump, thoroughly wash your hands and then do what you can to get into a calm and positive mindset, which might include:
- finding a warm and comfortable spot
- listening to music
- deep breathing exercises
- daydreaming about your baby or looking at their picture
- holding your baby, if they are with you
- using a warm compress and/or massaging your breasts before you begin
If you’re pumping at work, be sure to ask for what you need until you find a setup that works for you.
Once you’ve successfully expressed your milk, it’s time to properly refrigerate or freeze it and then send some of it to us here at Bébé Bru, where we’ll turn it into a nutrition-packed, easy-to-use, freeze-dried powder that will allow you to feed your baby for up to three years. If you haven’t tried it yet, click here to learn more: our process is safe, convenient, and worry-free.
Remember, breastfeeding and pumping don’t have to suck (except in the way they literally do). If you’re experiencing a lot of pain or difficulty breastfeeding or pumping, reach out to a lactation consultant for help!