One of the most fulfilling things as a new mother is taking your baby with you wherever you go and feeding them whenever they cry or are hungry. Breastfeeding is a beautiful experience with the reward of great bonding between you and your baby. But the case is different for each mother. Some are working women, some might need a little time off from their motherhood duties, or would want to go out on some occasions. In such situations, breast pumping is the best alternative to ensure that your baby gets their food on time. Here are some helpful breast pumping tips for new mommies:
- Time matters:
One of the most important things as a new mother is to understand the time when you produce the most amount of milk. Although your breasts produce an ample amount of milk throughout the day, the best time to pump is an hour before your baby gets hungry. It can also be done half an hour after you feed your toddler.
- Choosing the right pump:
Selecting the right pump, whether electric or manual, plays an important role in breast pumping. Not only the pump but also the right flange size help in a great suction which means getting more milk. The electric as well as the manual breast pumps are portable and provide you with the ease of carrying them with you.
- Don’t stress:
While pumping for the first time some mothers may not be able to express 4 ounces of milk. They might only get half an ounce or two ounces and that’s completely normal. You don’t have to stress over it, thinking your baby is not getting the right amount or there is something wrong with you. It is a completely natural thing to happen.
- Right set-up:
If you are using an electric pump, the right setting is really important. Make sure you start with minimal suction and increase it gradually. That is what babies do. This also ensures that you will be comfortable and will be able to express the most amount of milk.
- Massaging and compression:
Massaging while you are expressing yourself is quite helpful. Even when you have just started pumping or have had any letdown, gently massaging your breast in soft circular motions helps you get the most out of it. You can start alternating between compressing around the areola once you feel like you have the letdown.
- How to store:
With the proper storage technique, you can easily store the milk for up to a year. When you are storing it at room temperature you need to make sure the baby gets it within six hours. If you are going to keep it in the refrigerator (not in the door), it’ll last for about a week. When frozen, it can last for up to a year.
- How to thaw the frozen milk?
When thawing the milk don’t put the packet in warm water, that way all the good nutrients will end up getting destroyed. To thaw the milk you need to put it in the refrigerator and let it happen gradually. That way there won’t be any dynamic temperature changes and the nutrients will stay intact.
Now you are all set to go on this new journey. Just remember that stress is your enemy and getting the right pump and flange is important for the best breast pumping experience.
