A breast pump provides an alternative to breastfeeding that still allows a mother to feed her baby healthy breast milk. Colostrum is the early milk produced by the body that begins formation during pregnancy. A woman's body continues to produce colostrum for several days after her baby is born. During this time, beginning to use a breast pump may be useful for feeding a baby and promoting lactation.
Production
During pregnancy, a mother's body releases hormones that create breast milk. For a lactating mother, the sucking motion of a breastfeeding infant or the use of a breast pump will stimulate the cells in the breast to release milk into the ducts. This milk travels down the ducts and out one of approximately 15 openings in the nipple. This action is referred to as let-down, according to the Sutter Health website.
Colostrum
Because using a breast pump stimulates the breasts to let down milk, you may begin using a breast pump right after your baby is born. This can encourage colostrum formation, which is rich in protein and the immune properties a newborn baby needs. You may continue to pump to stimulate mature milk, which comes in after several days of colostrum. The mature milk contains high amounts of fat needed for your baby's growth, Sutter Health says.
Use
Assemble the breast pump according to package directions and wash your hands. Place the cupped opening over your breast; covering the nipple and areola, which is the darker colored area surrounding the nipple. Turn on the breast pump or begin manually pumping by holding the cup in place for approximately 10 to 15 minutes and allowing the suction to draw milk out of the breast. The milk will collect in a reservoir attached to the pump, which can be fed to your baby or stored for later use.
Storage
If your baby is unable to eat after birth due to illness or you if want to save your breast milk, you may use a breast pump to collect the milk to feed to your baby or store for later. The U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health recommends using clean glass or plastic bottles or breast milk bags for milk storage. You can store milk in the back of the refrigerator for up to eight days. If you want to freeze milk, it can be stored in a freezer for up to six months.
Engorgement
Some women choose to breastfeed their babies; but due to illness or other difficulties, breast engorgement may occur. If your breasts become engorged, you may consider using a breast pump to relieve symptoms. Engorgement occurs when the breasts become too full of milk; causing swollen, firm and painful breasts. Breastfeeding may be challenging because the nipples may flatten, making it difficult for a baby to latch on. Using a breast pump can relieve engorgement and allow you to breastfeed your baby again, advises Peace Health's website.
