As World Breastfeeding Week is going on so we decided to inform you about another way of feeding breast milk to your little one- by pumping it. This year’s theme is “Protect Breastfeeding: A Shared Responsibility” And as the new-age mothers who often find it difficult to keep up with the fast pace of their lifestyle, choose to use breast pumps. Breast pump doesn’t stimulate the same feelings in you as your baby does. But, with time, your body will usually learn to trigger your let-down reflex when you pump, and the quantity of milk you express increase . If too are planning to start pumping here are few tips
• To avoid any strain on the shoulder or neck, sit in a relaxed and comfortable position with your arm close to the body and your wrist aligned with the arm.
• If you know your baby is going to need a lot of milk start storing it in advance.
• Go with the natural breastfeeding rhythm by pressing and releasing the pump lever with the help of the handle for proper milk extraction. Increasing your milk supply will take time, so don’t give up.
• Research has found that moms who listened to guided relaxation or soothing music while pumping had an increased pumping output so relax and don’t stress.
• Use a very small amount of lanolin cream or vegetable oil to moisten the inside of the breast pump horns.
• Place the silicone upon the breast in such a manner that has full grip and the nipple should be in the centre of the breast.
• Always keep the extracted milk at room temperature before feeding.
• After every usage wash the breast pump thoroughly and do either hot or cold sterilization
• Choose a pump based on your needs
• You must massage and compress areas of the breast that feel firm to improve milk expression
• Pump both breasts simultaneously.
• If you’re using a breast pump at work, follow a schedule to help your body identify when it’s time to make milk.
• Skipping a session can have a negative effect on your milk supply so avoid it.
If you are still in doubt, you can take help from your doctor and even rely on support from other breastfeeding mothers around you.
