Breast Pumping for New Mothers: A Complete Guide

While becoming a mother is such an incredible blessing, many women find that their new responsibilities as a mom are overwhelming. Of course, they need time away from their regular routines, such as spending time alone, hanging out with friends, or even going to work, just like the rest of us. For this, they need a well-deserved break from breastfeeding, where breast pumping is the absolute helping hand. On January 27th of every year, World Breast Pumping Day is celebrated to acknowledge the commitment, time, and energy involved in pumping breastmilk by a woman. To all the new moms, you don't have to worry if you haven't tried or don't know enough about it. Here, we provide you with a complete guide to breast pumping.

What is a Breast Pump?

A breast pump is a device used for pumping milk from a mother's breasts and storing it for later use. All breast pumps come with breast shields, which are cups in the shape of a cone that fits over your breasts and nipples. The breast pumping parts include tubing and duck valves which require regular replacement.

Breast Pumping Tip: Clean and sanitize the breast pump after each use.

Types of Breast Pumps

A breast pump has three main parts: a nipple-fitting suction cup, a funnel, and a bottle. It's designed to work similarly to a baby's suction, which helps in stimulating milk production. 

There are two types of breast pumps:

Manual Pumps

Manual pumps are intended for infrequent or transient use. A manual pump is similar like a hand pump, it requires more effort and time to extract milk as the lever must be squeezed repeatedly to generate suction. It is useful only for occasional use, and many women have this on hand as a backup in case there is a power outage or any issue with their electric pump.

Electric Pumps

Electric pumps are simpler than manual pumps since the machine pumps automatically and with no physical effort. This pump speeds up milk extraction and allows for a larger supply of milk in storage. These pumps are beneficial as they allow mothers to pump both breasts simultaneously, which is a significant time saver. As the most convenient option, electric pumps are the most preferable among mothers.

Breast Pumping Tip: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.

How Should You Pump? (Step by Step)

1. First, ensure that all breast pumping parts function well, and start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Find a relaxing, calm, safe, and clean place, and sit in a comfortable position.
3. Start by massaging your breasts for a few minutes to stimulate milk flow. You can try thinking of holding your baby in your arms or gazing at a picture of your child.
4. Now, place the breast shield in the pump over your breast and areola, placing your nipples in the center.
5. Begin pumping with a low level of suction and gradually increase the level of suction if you’re using an electric pump.
6. Pump each of your breasts for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are empty.
7. When you're done, make sure your breasts are soft and place the milk in the freezer or refrigerator straight away. 

Breast Pumping Tip: Pump each breast for at least 20 minutes.

How Much and How Often to Pump as a New Mom?

How much breast milk a mother should pump depends on several factors, including her baby's age, the time of day, her state of mind, the type of pump she uses, and the duration since her last pumping session. But on average, you should try to make about 25 to 30 ounces of milk per day.

Also, how long a new mum can pump varies from one person to another. Try pumping until the milk starts to slow down and your breasts are well drained. In general, you should pump each breast for 15 to 20 minutes. Whereas for some women, especially in the beginning, they may require 30 minutes or more. 

Benefits of Breast Pumping for New Mothers

• Saves Time

Using a breast pump allows you to schedule feedings at times that are most convenient for you. You can make your flexible plan, go back to work, and still breastfeed your baby.

• Shared responsibility

You are not going to be the only one responsible for feeding your baby. Your partner or a caregiver can assist you. It is easier for others to take care and feed the infant when breast milk has been pumped and stored.

• More Me-time

Most of the new mothers suffer from postpartum depression, which is defined by insomnia, anxiety, mood swings, etc... This can be a little challenging to get over! However, pumping and storing breast milk enables them to have more "me-time," such as going out for a few hours, taking a brief vacation, etc...

• Increased Milk Supply

Breast pumping helps mothers increase their milk supply and allows them to store extra milk in the freezer before the infant needs it. 

Breast Pumping Tip: Massage your breasts to stimulate milk flow.

Ways to Make Pumping Easier

• Select the correct breast shield size for your breast and place it properly on your breast.
• Increase your milk supply by massaging your breasts before and while you pump.
• Pump frequently for short durations to increase milk supply.
• Carry an object that reminds you of your child.
• Find a relaxing and comfortable place to pump your breast milk.

Weaning Off Breast Pumping

Each breastfeeding experience is unique, and the time it takes for mothers to wean themselves from breast pumping may vary. But there comes a time when they must stop pumping breast milk. Tips to wean off of breast pumping include;

Cut back on your pumping sessions

Researchers have shown that stopping pumping suddenly can worsen pain from engorgement, plugged ducts, and mastitis, in addition to the general discomfort you may feel. Instead, think about skipping a pumping session every few days to wean your milk supply off gradually. Reduce the number of times you pump each day by one if you normally do so (e.g., from five to four).

Lessen your pumping time

Throughout your daily sessions, you can gradually reduce the amount of time you spend pumping. Try shortening your pump periods by a few minutes at a time, letting your body a few days to adjust, until there is no milk to pump.

Breast Pumping Tip: Find a relaxed space and make yourself comfortable.

How to Store Your Breast Milk in The Right Way?

Aside from knowing how to use a breast pump properly, it is also important to know how to store the pumped breast milk so that it stays fresh and retains its nutritional value. Tips for storing breast milk are:

• Using glass containers, translucent plastic containers, or freezer bags designed specifically for breast milk storage.
• Write the date on the breast-pumped milk container.
• Fill each container only with the quantity of breastmilk required for a single feeding (2 to 4 ounces).

End Note

We hope this health guide provides you with all the information you need about breast pumping. Whether you prefer the classic manual pump or the convenient electric pump, the choice is all yours! Initially, most breastfeeding mothers prefer manual breast pumps, but they shift to electric pumps over time because of how easy and fuss-free they are. We provide you with the easiest way to buy either manual pumps or electric pumps online.

Breast Pumping Tip: Read through the entire guide and become a Pumping Pro!