PARENTS
Written by
Dr. Harvey Karp
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Pumping breast milk is just part of the job for many mums. But, for most, it is not a job that sparks much joy…in fact, it can be a real drag. Even if pumping is a new, unfun fixture in your life, there are ways to make it a little easier and more productive. Whether you are exclusively pumping or are pumping at work to supplement breastfeeding, here are a few tips to take some of the suck out of pumping.
Though your breast pump probably came with a set of flanges (those funnel-like plastic pieces), they are not one-size-fits all. If you are using the wrong size, pumping could be painful. It also might slow your flow. If you feel a tugging pain, your nipple looks white or red after pumping, your nipple is hitting the end of the flange, or the pump is pulling your areola into the flange, your flange might be the wrong size. Check with the manufacturer of your breast pump to determine if you should size up or down.
If you are struggling with your milk output, breast massage or compression can help. A 2009 study found that when mums used their hands to express milk as they pumped, they pumped 48% more than they could have with the pump alone and the milk had about twice as much fat!
How to do hands-on pumping (here is a video that shows the technique):
Put all of those adorable baby vids and pics on your phone to good use…looking at your baby’s cuteness can help get the juices (er…milk) flowing. Another way to boost your output: Pack some recently used swaddle blankets in your pumping bag so you can take a big inhale of that sweet new-baby smell.
This is one instance where it is helpful to keep your eyes off the prize (aka the gradually accumulating liquid gold). If you are having trouble producing, you may slow your flow if you stare at the bottles while pumping.
Practice some relaxing deep breathing and pretend you are laying on the most beautiful beach without a care in the world. Or imagine your milk is flowing like a river to the sea.
To save time, stash your unwashed pumping equipment in a zip-top bag and keep them in the fridge until you need them again. (Pro tip: A cloth bag is less wasteful than a plastic baggie—and you can just toss it in the washing machine!) The cool temperatures of the fridge will stop bacteria in its tracks. At the end of the day, you can fully wash and sanitise your gear. Speaking of which…
Dads tend to be terrible at breastfeeding…but they make pretty good pump-part-cleaners! Make your partner responsible for washing, assembling, and packing your pump parts at home to lighten your load.
Many mums find their supply peaks in the morning. To take full advantage of this milk rush, try pumping off just a couple of ounces from one or both sides. Then, put the baby on to suck out the few ounces of rich hind milk that is still inside. Your baby is a much more efficient milk-sucker than any pump! Do not worry that your baby is not getting enough. Within a few days, your breasts will suddenly think you had twins (or triplets!) and will start making a few extra ounces for you every morning.
If you are pumping at work, you can avoid awkward run-ins at the shared office fridge by keeping your own mini fridge. A small, 6-can fridge/cooler typically offers enough space for several bottles—and even a couple of flanges—for less than £50.
If you are planning on pumping after you go back to work, do not wait until then to begin! Get a head start by pumping now (try squeezing in a session between your normal feedings), so that you can stockpile milk in the freezer. This will take some of the pressure off once you return to the office!
Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.
