Pumping breast milk lets you return to work or have extra breast milk for feeding your baby when you are not there. You have two options for breast milk pumps: manual or electric. Manual pumps require you to pump your breast milk out by hand while electric pumps have a motor that generates the required suction power. MayoClinic.com explains that manual pumps are usually less expensive, but take more time to use than electric pumps--which usually cost more that $150. To successfully pump your breast milk, you need to know how to start your pump.
Step 1
Remove your bra or clothing covering your breast so that your entire nipple and areola are exposed.
Step 2
Place the breast pump shield over your entire nipple and aerola, not just the tip of your nipple.
Step 3
Squeeze the handle to begin pumping the milk from your breast or turn the electric pump's motor on.
Tips and Warnings
- For full-time working mothers, try to pump for about 15 minutes every few hours--adhering closely to your baby's feeding schedule. You can pump more easily if you are relaxed, as stress impairs your ability to release breast milk. Electric pumps may have the ability to pump both breasts at the same time, which saves you time.
