Hands on Pumping
Q: What is hands on pumping?
Hands on pumping is a technique you can use to maximize your milk output while pumping. Fun Fact: You can yield over 40 % more milk with this technique! Keeping up with your infants demands can be challenging but when you use the right pump, proper flange sizes and the hands on technique it can be much more manageable.
Q: How can I do it?
Hands on pumping can be practiced best with a hands free pump bra, proper fitting flanges, and clean hands. Once you’ve started pumping, start gently massaging down towards your flanges while working your way around your breast. You can also try gentle compressions but always make sure you’re far up and deep onto your breasts as not interfere with flange suction. See below for a video on techniques!
Q: When should I use this technique?
Hands on pumping can be used to boost milk output while pumping and also increase fat content for premies! However, any mother who is pumping can benefit from this technique. We see this practiced in the NICU, but it doesn’t have to stop there. This can be used throughout your whole pumping journey.