What should I know about pumping?
1. Use your hands!
Massaging while pumping can increase your production dramatically! You can watch a video about techniques here.
2. Make sure your flanges fit properly.
Pump flanges should not rub or cause pain. Flanges that are too small or too large reduce the amount of milk you can express. This is an article that explains more, as well as a video that goes into more detail.
3. Manual expression can help!
4. A pumping bra or harness can be a lifesaver!
Some great options include the Brauxiliary Band, Simplicity, & Simple Wishes
Understanding Pumps
Pumps vary greatly in capability and quality. Using the right pump for the right purpose can help ensure you reach your goals.
Click the button below to see a PDF with more information:
Multi-User (Rental Grade)
These pumps are frequently used in clinical settings including hospitals. They are rarely purchased by families or issued by insurance providers, as they are $2,000 to $3,000. However they are available for short or long term rental.
Multi-use pumps can be safely and hygienically used by multiple users, like in a lactation room in a facility. They have a powerful motor designed for both frequent and long term use. These pumps are able to support families who exclusively pumping, pumping for premature babies or multiples, or to increase low milk supply with frequent pumping.
These pumps are designed and programmed to initiate milk supply if the baby is feeding at the breast or not, which makes it the right choice for families in many situations.
Personal Use
These electric pumps are frequently issued by insurance and are also available for purchase in a wide range of prices, generally from $40 to $400.
These pumps are design for a single user and it is not safe or hygienic for these pumps to be shared or sold to another person.
Personal use pumps generally have a warranty of 90 days to 1 year under normal use. Occasionally a pump of this style will have a two year warranty.
This style of pump is designed for back-to-work use. This means it's meant to be used about 3 times per day, 5 days a week, when milk supply is already well established.
Help - I'm Engorged!
Engorgement can be caused by several factors. One is that milk is rapidly increasing and is not being removed quickly enough. Short, frequent feedings, pumping sessions, or hand expression can help more than longer sessions.
IV fluids given during birth can also cause or increase engorgement. The most effective treatment for this is acupuncture. We recommend Fertile Ground Wellness for acupuncture in the Denver Metro area.
Some more great tips to reduce engorgement, including Reverse Pressure Softening, are included in this video:
Do you need more help with breastfeeding or pumping?
Make an appointment with an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) to address issues and concerns. Getting skilled help early can solve issues more quickly and with less stress. Insurance may completely cover your consults.