How to use a breast pump

A breast pump is a tool that helps pump milk out of your breasts. You can store breast milk in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. This can be especially helpful when you are about to leave your baby or when someone else is feeding your baby.

Breast pumps are available as manual breast pumps or automatic breast pumps that use batteries or electricity. Your doctor can help you determine which pump is right for you.

Where to get a breast pump

You can purchase a breast pump from retail stores, your local hospital, or a private insurance company.

Never buy a used breast pump. Pumps sold used can expose you to contamination.

When to use a breast Pump

Always check with your doctor before using a breast pump. Many people start expressing milk soon after having a baby.

If you know you will be away from your baby, for example to return to work or school, it is recommended that you start pumping two weeks before returning. Try to pump as often as your baby is breastfeeding.

How to use a breast pump

Read the instructions for your breast pump kit. Not all breast pumps work the same. Typically, you will follow the following steps:

Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the breast pump.
Find a safe, clean and private room where you can relax.
Reassemble the pump, double check that all parts are clean.
To improve milk flow, try holding your baby or looking at a picture of him.
Place the funnel on your breast (your nipple should be in the middle of the funnel).
Start pumping at a low suction level and gradually increase the suction level as the milk begins to flow.
Inflate each breast until it is empty.
When you're done, each of your breasts should be soft to the touch.
Place the milk in the refrigerator or freezer immediately.
Dismantle the pump, rinse it thoroughly and allow the parts to air dry.

How to store breast milk

After expressing milk, you will need a way to store the milk and keep it safe. Breast milk can be stored in a refrigerator, plastic bags, and plastic or glass bottles. These products are sold in many pharmacies and grocery stores; Be sure to purchase products specifically designed to store breast milk.

Here are some other considerations to keep in mind:

Write the date on the breast milk container.
If you are leaving a child with someone else, also write the child's name on the container.
In each container, put only the amount of milk that is needed for one feeding.

Advantages and disadvantages of using a breast pump

Breast pumps help mothers extract and store breast milk, but have their own advantages and disadvantages. The benefits of using a breast pump include:

Saved time. Using a breast pump gives you more control over when your baby feeds. You can make a schedule convenient for you and pump milk at this time.
Shared duties. When breast milk is expressed and stored, it is easier for other people to care for and feed the baby. This can be especially helpful when mothers are recovering from childbirth or during frequent nighttime awakenings to feed their baby.
Increase supply. Pumping can help mothers increase their breast milk production. It can also help create an extra supply of milk that can be stored in the freezer if needed.
Breaks. Since mothers can accumulate extra breast milk, this gives them more leeway. They have more freedom to get out of the house for a few hours, take a vacation and enjoy their vacation knowing that their baby will always have access to healthy breast milk. Donor milk. When a woman is unable to produce milk, donated milk is better for your baby than formula. Expressed milk is sometimes the only way a baby can get breast milk.

Disadvantages include:

Less benefit to the immune system. The use of a breast pump is preferred over formula, but may not be suitable for the baby's needs at this time. It does not provide the same benefit to the baby's immune system as breastfeeding.
Additional expense. Buying a breast pump and the necessary supplies can cost more. These can include milk storage bras, bottles, milk storage bags and breast pumps.
Privacy issues. Some women find it difficult to use a breast pump in public places or at work. It can be difficult to find a private place to express milk, and sometimes the pump makes noise.
Storage. Finding ways to store and track your expressed milk can be tricky. Even frozen breast milk can expire and should be carefully monitored.