Breast pumps allow you to collect and store your breast milk for later use. This is particularly important for mothers who work outside the home or are separated from their babies for extended periods of time. The stockpile of breast milk eliminates the need to supplement with formula, allowing the infant to enjoy the benefits of breast milk even when her mother isn't available. Pumping breast milk takes work and is sometimes frustrating if you aren't able to collect much milk.
Step 1
Breastfeed your infant frequently to stimulate milk production. The more milk you produce, the more you will likely collect while pumping.
Step 2
Purchase a high-quality breast pump for the most effective pumping. A hospital-grade dual electric pump allows you to pump both breasts at the same time. Pumping both breast together may increase the amount of milk produced, according to Ask Dr. Sears.
Step 3
Inspect the pump to ensure that is assembled properly so it operates more effectively. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper assembly instructions.
Step 4
Adjust the settings on the breast pump to find the setting that expresses milk most effectively. Babycenter notes that low suction or fast suction cycles may produce less milk.
Step 5
Purchase breast pump shields that are made for your nipple size. A small shield may cause nipple swelling, which decreases the amount of milk expressed, according to Babycenter. Check with the manufacturer to see if they offer different shield sizes for a better fit.
Step 6
Establish a pumping routine, including where and how you pump, as well as how you prepare the pump. According to Ask Dr. Sears, the routine may help you relax and stimulate milk ejection. Visualizing a relaxing scene, listening to music and avoiding distractions may also help you relax for increased milk.
Step 7
Pump as often as your baby would nurse when you aren't with her. For example, if your infant nurses every three hours, try to pump that often. Babycenter warns that pumping too soon after nursing may not produce much milk, especially if your baby drank a lot of breast milk.
Step 8
Contact the hospital's lactation consultant or your local La Leche League for advice on improving your pumping technique. The experts may be able to analyze how you pump and give you pointers to help express more milk.
Things You'll Need
- Breast pump
