A breast pump is a great solution whether you want to start sharing feedings with your husband or if you want to have a milk supply if you’re going back to work or for when you’re not readily available for nursing.
Using a breast pump for the first few times can be tricky, a little uncomfortable and even slightly embarrassing - especially when your husband breaks into laughter. But you’ll soon master the machine and be the one smiling when he starts to share in the joy of nighttime feedings.
Here’s a list of tips our moms share with new breastfeeding friends:
<b>Follow a routine for your pumping session</b> to condition your body and prepare it to be in the optimal “place” for productive pumping.
<b>Have a picture of your child</b> or visualize him while you’re pumping. It will help start & keep your milk flowing.
<b>Be patient</b>. Just like when you’re nursing, it may take a few initial pumps for the milk to start flowing.
<b>If milk tends to leak out of your pump</b>, lean forward so the fluid is directed towards the center of the milk.
<b>It’s okay to switch breasts</b> while pumping and combine the milk from one sitting.
If you’re pumping during the day, <b>increase your breastfeeding at night and on weekends</b> to keep your milk supply up when you pump.
<b>Eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of rest</b> will help your body stay in shape.
If you hear a whoosing air sound or the suction doesn’t feel as strong as it usually does, <b>check the connections and hoses</b> to make sure they are attached and functioning correctly.
<b>If the pumping is painful, try a gentler setting</b> or switch to a manual pump. The electric pump you’re using may not have enough suction and be stretching out your nipples for too long. Try renting a hospital grade electric pump and see if that helps.
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