Things you absolutely need to know about pumping
Are you pregnant Ottawa mom, and considering pumping? Here are some tips, including Ottawa breastfeeding resources!
Who needs to know about pumping?
If you're planning to breastfeed, you may be wondering if pumping is something you need to learn about. The answer is maybe. Some mothers exclusively breastfeed and never pump, while others find that they need to pump occasionally or regularly. If you think you might want or need to pump, the best time to learn about it is before your baby is born. That way, you'll be familiar with the equipment and process if you need to use it. However, even if you don't plan to pump, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics! There's no need to feel overwhelmed - there are plenty of resources available to help you learn about pumping and breastfeeding.
Let’s get into some of those today!
What should I expect with pumping in my first few weeks home with a newborn?
Don't be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get the hang of pumping. It's normal for it to take your body a few days or even a week or two to adjust to pumping and producing the right amount of milk.
Try to pump at least every four hours during the day, even if you don't think you have much milk. This will help stimulate your body to produce more milk. You can also pump after feedings to empty your breasts.
Should I, and how can I set up my pumping schedule?
If you're like most new mothers, you're probably wondering how often you should pump and what the best pumping schedule is.
The short answer is that there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question - every mother and baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. However, there are a few general guidelines that can help you determine what pumping schedule is right for you.
The first thing to consider is how often your baby is feeding. If you're breastfeeding exclusively, you'll need to pump about as often as your baby eats - which is typically 8-12 times per day. If you're supplementing with formula or solid foods, you may be able to get away with pumping less often. It's also important to consider your own pumping goals. If you're trying to increase your milk supply, you'll want to pump more frequently than if you're just trying to maintain your current supply.
What are some tips for getting more milk production?
Ahhh, the million-dollar question, right?
Different things work for different moms, but here are a few things to try to give your body a little boost.
Make sure you're drinking plenty of fluids. I know this seems obvious, but a lot of moms think they’re hydrated when they’re actually not! Breastfeeding can be dehydrating, so it's important to stay well-hydrated yourself.
Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Oats are especially beneficial, as they contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber that has been shown to increase milk production.
As tough as it might seem, try to relax and let your body do its thing. Stress can have a negative impact on milk supply, so take some time for yourself and practice some self-care.
Nurse your baby frequently and on demand. The more times your baby nurses, the more stimulation your breasts will receive, which can lead to an increase in milk production.
If you've tried everything and you're still not seeing an increase in production, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant to see if there are any other options.
What’s the best way to store and transport pumped milk? Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your hard work.
Always make sure your pump parts and bottles are clean. Wash them with warm soapy water, then rinse well and air dry.
Check the date on your milk. Freshly pumped milk can be stored in the fridge for up to five days, but if you're not going to use it right away, freezing is your best bet. Frozen milk will keep for up to six months in a regular freezer or twelve months in a deep freezer. Just remember to label each container with the date it was pumped!
When thawing frozen milk, always do so in the fridge, never at room temperature. And when you're ready to use it, give it a good shake first - freezing and thawing can cause the fat to separate from the rest of the milk.
We have many breastfeeding & pumping resources in Ottawa.
Visit Ottawa Breastfeeds for a complete list.
As a new mom, there are many things to learn and juggle. Pumping is one of those things that can seem daunting at first, but it isn’t as bad as it seems. By following these tips for pumping effectively and increasing your milk supply, you will be on your way to establishing a successful pumping routine in no time :) Remember, every mom is different, and what works for someone else may not work for you – so find what works best for you and stick with it!