Updates to copy, information, and sources and a new medical review.
Enter the breast pump.
Pumping might seem daunting at first (tubes andflangesand suction, oh my!
), but its not complicated once you get the hang of it.
Here’s what to know about getting the pumping party started.
When should I start pumping?
You should start pumping whenever it makes sense for you.
Other new moms wait a few weeks or months before they start pumping.
How often should I pump and for how long?
Pump until the milk starts slowing down and your breasts feel well-drained.
Be sure toclean the breast flangesafter every use.
Whats the best pumping and breastfeeding schedule?
But its best to choose a time of day when your breasts are ordinarily full.
Some moms are able to pump from one breast while baby is nursing on the other.
As long as your baby is getting her fill on one breast (double-check you know ?
Doing this will increase your milk supply and give you plenty of breast milk to store away.
Both are thought to ramp up the production of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates breast milk production.
Otherwise, do it right after a breastfeeding session.
Ideally, your power pumping session should last an hour.
Then pump or nurse as usual the rest of the day.
It will take a few days for your milk supply to respond to this increased demand.
What are the benefits of pumping milk?
In this case, you may opt to pump exclusively, otherwise known as EPing."
Freezing milk in small quantities (3 to 4 ounces at a time) allows for easy thawing.
Always label each container with the date and time, and verify to use the oldest milk first.
Air-dry and put the parts away only when they are completely dry.
Increasing your milk supply will take time, so dont give up.
Stick with it and youll see the results after a few days.
