All about pumping: Top ten common questions.
All about pumping: Top ten common questions, exclusive pumpers, favorite pumps and why
Top ten questions about pumping!
1. When do I need to start pumping?
It depends on if your baby is latching. If this is your first baby, you may want to see how things go with breastfeeding first. But, if you have sore nipples and need a breast rest, if your breasts are severely engorged and you aren’t feeling as if the baby is getting enough, if your baby needs a supplement, if your baby was born early, has jaundice, or any other medical issue that prevents them from feeding effectively, you should start pumping. In general, anytime you are concerned about your baby’s latching ability, you should begin pumping immediately after birth to encourage milk production and then contact an IBCLC for ongoing support!
2. What type of pump should I use?
First Choice: A hospital-grade double electric pump, such as: the Spectra, motif, Medela, Ameda, or the Hygeia. Second Choice: A manual hand pump, such as the Medela Harmony, lansinoh, or the Haaka Silicone Breastfeeding Pump. Third Choice: A portable, hands-free breast pump, such as the Baby Buddha, the Elvie, or Willow Go. There are many new pumps that come to the market daily! So read the reviews! We have found many affordable good pump choices from no name brands on amazon as well.
3. When should I pump?
In most cases you should pump immediately after feeding your baby. If you are exclusively pumping, you should pump every two hours during the day, and every three to four hours during the night to initiate your milk supply. Then, you should consult with an IBCLC to determine long term sustainability.
4. How long should I pump for?
Most start with a double pump at around 15 minutes per day, once you have custom flanges and know how to use it properly you can likely move down to 10-12 minutes. Again every 2 hrs in the day and every 3 hrs at night.
For manual pumps, its typically 8-10 mins per side.
5. What is the best way to store my milk?
According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, the WHO and CDC, the best way to store breastmilk is in glass containers or bottles in the refrigerator and then in the freezer if needed. Another option for storing breastmilk is in storage bags that are marketed for breastmilk. Storing breastmilk in plastic baby bottles is acceptable only for short-term storage. Breastmilk is best at room temperature right after it has been pumped.
6. Do I need to have a stash of breastmilk in my freezer?
No, you do not have to. This is a personal choice. The only time you need milk prepared in advance is for your first time away from your baby. One reason you may choose to store breastmilk in the freezer is if you are anticipating being separated from your baby longer than one to two days.
7. Why do I need to pump?
Mothers may choose to pump breastmilk if their baby needs supplementation for medical reasons, if they have a history of low milk supply, if she is uncomfortable, if she is relieving mastitis or trying to prevent it, or to prepare for maternal separation.
8. Can pumping help to increase my milk supply?
Yes, pumping is the key in building milk supply. Pumping immediately after a feed will most definitely help to boost your milk supply. If you are not taking a supplement for increasing milk supply yet, try taking Moringa, a galactagogue that is high in iron and amino acids. (Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement!)
9. How do I identify if my pump is not working effectively or is the incorrect size?
All of the following are strong indications that your flange is the incorrect size or that you are using a setting that is either too high or too low: if there is an air pocket coming in between the breast and the flange, if there is milk leaking out, if your nipple is not drawing in to the flange, if you don’t feel like your breast is being drained, if you are in pain, if you have rings on your areolas, or if your nipples are cracking. If you are experiencing any of these scenarios, contact a lactation consultant to determine what steps to take next. Flange size matters. The idea behind the right fit is to draw out the nipple and areola equally, in a format close to a baby suckling. When a baby suckles the nipple and areola are elongated. If a flange is too big- suction will draw in areola unequally causing swelling. If a flange is too small it will cause the nipple to “bloom” or evert from the pores causing damage. Either improper fit will minimize milk removal, cause pain and low supply. Ask for help! It will save you so much time and grief❣️
10. How often should I pump when I am away from my baby?
You should pump right before you are about to leave your home, and every time your baby would potentially eat. During separation, you should pump every 2-3 hours.
Exclusively pumping?🍼Yes your baby will still be happy because they are getting YOUR milk🍼
The benefits of breastmilk are endless! 🛤🪄😷💪🏻💋👀🫀🫁🧠👶🏼🤱🏾
Mamas you are working so hard to make this milk and know we are all rooting for you, every pump of the way! 🎉
It is no easy feat, it is selfless and a priceless gift🎁
Reasons to consult an IBCLC
Do you need help increasing supply?
Questions about returning to work? 🚗
Were you making a good amount but all of a sudden things changed? 📉
Are you interested in hands free pumps but aren’t sure which to invest in?💰
Did you know you can get a custom plan based on your health history and your personal goals? 📝
Are you considering over the counter herbal remedies?
💡Quick tips
1. You must provide at least 8 stimulations per day; to boost supply you need 10-16!
2. Power pumps do count for 2 stimulations. 👏🏻
3. The time of day you pump does matter.⏰
4. Some supplements can help, but not all, so get the professional advice you need to navigate the details based on your body type and health history.🍎🍌🥦🥑🍞🍪
5. Proper sleep makes milk🥛😴
Booking an appointment with a lactation consultant can help you find magic pumping solutions!
On a daily lactation consultants are asked “Which pump do you like and why?”
In no particular order here is the break down and why.
Medela Harmony
This pump is reliable and comfortable. Used commonly with engorgement to create a quick quantity of milk with little fuss for supplementation or to soften the breast for a deeper latch. Some mothers do not respond well to an electric pump but find it to be an excellent solution when using this product. Its sold in most local stores, easy to use, with an affordable price.
Haaka
It’s a serious suction cup! Its convenience when baby is crying and milk is leaking everywhere helps mothers multitask with ease, and your liquid gold is not lost in the laundry. Often used by overproducers to pull off the over active let down, reducing choking or spattering at the breast, taking only 1-2 minutes before or during breastfeeds. Also used when trying to reduce oversupply, applying for 1-2 mins to soften, so mothers are not driving supply with longer pump sessions but also not allowing milk to sit preventing mastitis. Definitely priced just right!
Spectra
I love all the spectra models. They are designed well, lightweight egg shaped design, light up digital screen and timer, cycle memory, a variety of cycle and suction settings, hospital grade. The suction is strong and can do the heavy lifting for exclusive pumpers, nicu moms, low milk suppliers, and or back to work. Its reasonably priced and offered by most insurance companies.
Elvie
This hands free version is hands down consistent in quality! The design is light weight, with reusable containers, no plastic waste, easy to use function, discreet, rechargeable and not dependent on milk flow. This is important for low suppliers and delayed let down moms. This pump is more expensive than most, therefore having one you can trust is key! Disclaimer 🌟 if your nipple diameter is not greater than 18 mm this pump may not work well for you. Silicone inserts for a best fit are an option but dont always work.
I do have other pumps I like. These were the majority!
All moms and babies are unique! Therefore having a private consult with an IBCLC can help you make this tough choice. Many times your anatomy plays a huge factor in the decision.
