If you pump breast milk many times a day, you will be categorized as a frequent pumper. It is a matter of pride to be able to give your little one the best nourishment in the world. However, many new moms may face issues while pumping. So, here are some tips that will help ensure you enjoy a smooth and pleasant experience while expressing breast milk.
Get Ready for Pumping
Here are some things that you should do before you start pumping breast milk:
· Invest in a high-quality breast pump that offers features that are right for you. An electric breast pump is the right answer, but make sure it fits you comfortably.
· Ensure you wear comfortable nursing bras so that you don’t have to bother about removing your clothes each time you want to pump out breast milk.
· It is prudent to opt for a hands-free pumping bustier. This way, you will have more freedom while you pumping breast milk.
· Make sure you guzzle a lot of water the whole day. This will keep you hydrated and ensure you don’t face a problem while pumping out the milk. Remember, drink when you are thirsty; never force yourself to drink if you are not thirsty.
· Have a sanitized and clean area in your kitchen where you can store the pumping parts.
While You are Pumping
· Find a secluded and private area in your home so that you can pump without disturbance.
· Keep a photo of your baby or a toy in front of you to stimulate the milk to flow out with ease.
· Opt for more frequent pumping sessions. This way, you will be pumping out breast milk for a short duration rather than pumping out for a long duration.
Pumping in the Office
· Create a schedule that allows you to pump without getting involved in meetings and discussions. Mark your calendar. This way, you won’t have to worry about your colleagues scheduling meetings for those timings.
· Invest in a second pump that you can keep in the office. As a result, you won’t be hassled with taking the pump to and fro, and you won’t have to worry in the morning rush about forgetting parts. Just make sure you have a clean place to store the pump parts.
· Have two sets of pump parts in the office so that you can take home one set for cleaning and sanitizing and keep a clean set at work.
· In case you cannot invest in a second electric pump, opt for a hand pump. This way, you won’t have to worry about forgetting parts while rushing to work each day.
· When pumping breast milk at work, pump the milk directly into storage bottles. Store about 2 to 4 oz at one go. This will make it easy for you to store and defrost when the need arises.
· Storing small batches of breast milk minimizes wastage.
· Inform your co-workers that you will be storing expressed milk in the office refrigerator. Designate an area in the fridge for this purpose.
Becoming a mother is a joyful and delightful experience. However, motherhood comes with its own set of travails, and breast pumping is one of them. However, if you are relaxed and prepared to pump, it will be wonderful and fulfilling experience. So, use these tips to enjoy a memorable pumping experience. Remember, even after all the preparations, there are bound to be mistakes; just don’t get worked up. Every mom goes through this and you are no different.
