If you're a breast-feeding mother who is going back to work or planning a trip without her baby, you may have concerns about using a breast pump to express milk during your absence. Pumping milk won't diminish your milk supply. In fact, when done correctly, pumping can even help increase your milk production, and storing unused breast milk means your baby can continue drinking it when you're apart. For safe handling, always wash your hands, cups, bottles and removable pump parts in hot, soapy water, and rinse thoroughly before pumping.
Step 1
Take care of yourself while breastfeeding and pumping. Adequate rest, nutrition and hydration are key factors for milk production. Avoid caffeinated drinks which can be dehydrating and interfere with your sleep as well as your baby's. If you smoke cigarettes, quit. Smoking cigarettes can decrease the amount of milk you produce and transfers nicotine to your baby through breast milk. Nicotine can change the taste of your milk and change your baby's sleeping habits -- both of which might affect milk production.
Step 2
Relax before pumping. Take a few deep breaths and get comfortable. Feeling stress while you pump may prevent milk from flowing freely or completely. When your breasts do not empty completely, your body slows the production of milk.
Step 3
Pump every two to three hours for approximately 15 minutes a session. Frequent, regular sessions promote more milk production than waiting many hours in between, even if the pumping time is longer.
Step 4
Use a pump that allows you to express both breasts at once. This encourages your body to produce more prolactin -- the milk-producing hormone.
Step 5
Maintain your pumping schedule even if you supplement your baby's diet with formula. Pump each time your baby has a bottle of formula to keep your milk production steady. Drugs.com recommends 8 to 12 daily feedings. Pump frequently enough to reach that number in combination with feedings.
Step 6
Feed your baby on demand when you are with her. Encourage her to suckle until your breasts feel empty. Use your breast pump to release all of the milk if she doesn't.
Tips and Warnings
- Carry a photo of your baby to look at when pumping. Seeing or thinking about him may encourage the body's natural let down response and help milk flow freely. If you plan to have an alcoholic drink, do not breast feed your baby for approximately two hours after drinking. Give your baby a bottle of breast milk at the usual feeding time, then pump and discard the milk. Talk to your lactation consultant about which type of breast pump is best for you. The frequency of pumping, budget and work/home environment may influence your choice. Manual, battery operated and electric pumps are available. You may purchase a pump or rent one from a medical supply store.
- Signs that your baby isn't getting enough breast milk include having fewer than six wet diapers each day, fewer than three soiled diapers each day, jaundice, or the appearance of weight loss. Consult with your doctor and lactation specialist if you suspect your child is underfed. Consult your physician and lactation specialist if your breasts feel hard and full after nursing, or if you experience any swelling or pain in your breasts. Never thaw or warm breast milk in the microwave oven or refreeze unused portions.
