Pumping is a necessary part of breastfeeding. Many breastfeeding moms will need to return to work at some point after having their baby, and even the ones who do not return to work may want to go out without their baby from time to time. In both scenarios, this means pumping to provide milk in bottles for your baby.
Getting Started with a Breast Pump
Before your first pumping session, sterilize your pump parts (excluding the tubing) by boiling them in water for 5 minutes. Remove, allow them to cool, and air dry on a clean towel or drying rack. Once your pump parts are clean, set up your pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is essential to wash your pump parts after each use.
Please refer to the CDC pump cleaning guidelines for proper cleaning methods.
How To Use Your Breast Pump:
To start pumping, begin by washing your hands and assembling your pump. Choose a comfortable place where you can sit upright to prevent milk from spilling onto your breasts. Keep drinking water nearby to stay hydrated while pumping.
- Start with your pump on massage mode (high speed, low suction) for about 2 minutes or until milk starts flowing.
- Once milk flows, switch to expression mode (lower speed, high suction).
- If milk flow slows in expression mode, switch back to massage mode to trigger another let-down, then return to expression mode.
- Continue pumping until you go 1-2 minutes with little to no drips or sprays. This typically takes around 15 minutes but can vary based on milk supply and breast capacity.
What is Power Pumping?
Power pumping mimics a baby’s cluster feeding and may help increase milk supply. However, consult with a lactation consultant before trying it, as it can lead to oversupply and other issues.
Tip: To maximize efficiency, have your flange size measured by a lactation consultant.
How-to power pump
- Pump for 10 minutes, then turn the pump off for 10 minutes.
- Resume pumping for another 10 minutes, then take another 10-minute break.
- Pump one final 10-minute session.
It may take 3-4 days (or up to a week) to notice an increase in supply.
A lactation consultant is a great resource to ensure you are able to get the most out of breast pumping. At The Confident Latch, our lactation consultants are able to help with all your pumping needs.
