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Breastfeeding & Lactation
Updated on 3 November 2023
“Due back at the office,” the words kept spinning inside Drishti’s head as she sat on the bedside, bewildered in a world of diaper changes, sleepless nights and professional commitments. It felt like only yesterday when she had given birth to her bundle of joy, Ruhaan, but how fast the six months had passed since then. So, she kept staring at the breast pump on her bedside table, knowing it was her last resort while wondering how to use a breast pump.
So, whether you're a sleep-deprived parent seeking independence or a working mother about to rejoin the workforce, join Drishti as she unravels the art and science of using a breast pump – a tool that can transform her motherhood journey and potentially transform yours too.
There are several instances when using a breast pump can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. Here are five common situations where a breast pump can be useful:
In the early postpartum period, a breast pump can help stimulate milk production and establish a healthy milk supply, especially if the baby is unable to latch or is in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
When breasts become engorged and uncomfortably full, a breast pump can help provide relief by expressing milk and alleviating pressure.
Breast pumps allow mothers to express and store breast milk for later use. This is particularly helpful for mothers who need to be away from their baby for work, travel, or other commitments.
Some mothers may need to supplement breastfeeding with bottle-feeding to meet their baby’s nutritional needs. A breast pump enables them to express milk and provide it via a bottle.
In situations where a mother is experiencing nipple pain, plugged ducts, or mastitis, using a breast pump can help drain the breast and provide relief.
Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique, and the decision to use a breast pump should be based on individual circumstances and goals.
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Before diving into the specifics of how to pump breast milk, it's important to understand the different types available. There are two main types of breast pumps: manual and electric.
Manual breast pumps are operated by hand and require you to manually pump the handle to express milk. They are portable, affordable, and easy to clean. Manual breast pumps are a great option if you only need to pump occasionally or if you prefer a more hands-on approach to expressing milk.
Electric breast pumps, on the other hand, are powered by electricity or batteries and automatically pump the milk for you. They come in different models, including single and double pumps, allowing you to pump from one breast or both breasts simultaneously.
Using a manual breast pump may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and patience, it can become second nature. Follow these step-by-step instructions to effectively use a manual breast pump:
Start by washing your hands thoroughly and ensuring that all the parts of the breast pump are clean and sterilized. Find a quiet and comfortable place where you can relax and focus on pumping.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble the manual breast pump. Typically, it involves attaching the breast shield to the pump body and connecting the handle.
Gently position the breast shield over your nipple, making sure it fits comfortably and creates a seal around the areola.
Hold the breast pump with one hand and use the other hand to manually pump the handle. Start with short, rhythmic squeezes, gradually increasing the speed and intensity as your milk starts to flow.
Once your milk flow slows down, switch to the other breast and repeat the process. Alternating breasts helps stimulate milk production and ensures both breasts are adequately emptied.
After pumping, transfer the expressed milk into a clean and sterilized container. Label it with the date and time, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer according to your needs.
While using a manual breast pump, keep these tips in mind to optimize your pumping sessions:
Creating a calm and relaxing environment will help stimulate letdown and make the pumping experience more enjoyable.
Gentle breast massage before and during pumping can help increase milk flow and improve efficiency.
Applying gentle pressure to the breast while pumping can further stimulate milk flow and enhance the effectiveness of the pump.
If you are double-pumping, start with the breast that produces less milk to ensure both breasts are emptied fully.
Establishing a regular pumping routine, especially if you are exclusively pumping, can help maintain milk supply and avoid engorgement.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use an electric breast pump effectively:
Familiarize yourself with the different parts of the electric breast pump and ensure they are clean and properly assembled.
Sit in a relaxed and comfortable position, ensuring good back support. Some mothers find that leaning slightly forward can help with milk flow.
Center the breast shields over your nipples, making sure they fit properly and create a seal. Some electric pumps offer different sizes of breast shields, so choose the one that fits you best.
Start the electric breast pump at the lowest suction level and gradually increase to a comfortable level. Avoid starting at high suction levels, as it may cause discomfort or pain.
Electric breast pumps automatically create suction and mimic the sucking motion of a baby. Allow the pump to do its job, but if you feel any discomfort or pain, adjust the suction level accordingly.
Continue pumping until your breasts feel empty or until you have collected the desired amount of milk.
Transfer the expressed milk into a clean and sterilized container, labeling it with the date and time of pumping. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer according to your needs.
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It is important to find a quiet and comfortable space where you can relax while pumping. This can help stimulate milk flow and make the pumping experience more enjoyable.
Before every pumping session, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to maintain cleanliness. Additionally, ensure that all the pump parts and accessories are clean and sterilized.
Prior to pumping, applying a warm cloth to the breasts can help stimulate milk flow. Gentle massaging of the breasts can also aid in milk letdown and improve pumping efficiency.
It is crucial to use the correct size breast flange for optimal comfort and efficiency. Refer to the instructions provided with the pump to ensure proper usage.
Aim to pump for around 15-20 minutes per breast or a total of 15-20 minutes if double pumping. This timeframe allows for sufficient milk expression and helps maintain milk supply.
It is generally recommended to pump for about 15-20 minutes per breast or 15-20 minutes if double pumping. This duration allows for adequate milk flow and stimulation without overstimulating the breasts.
2. What is the best position to pump breast milk?
The best position to pump breast milk is to sit down with your shoulders set and your back straight. This position ensures proper alignment and comfort during the pumping session. You can use a comfortable, padded chair or cushion to support your back and arms.
In conclusion, using a breast pump is a personal decision that depends on individual circumstances and goals. The timing of when to use a breast pump can vary, whether it's to initiate breastfeeding, create a backup supply of milk, or relieve engorgement. When learning how to use a breast pump, it is recommended to follow the proper steps in order to use a breast pump with confidence and success.
References
1. Rasmussen KM, Geraghty SR. (2011). The quiet revolution: breastfeeding transformed with the use of breast pumps. Am J Public Health.
2. Meier PP, Patel AL, Hoban R, Engstrom JL. (2016). Which breast pump for which mother: an evidence-based approach to individualizing breast pump technology. J Perinatol.
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Written by
Vijay Kumar
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