Pumping 101
When to start pumping is going to differ for every Mother but ideally we like to see you wait until breastfeeding is well established which is between 4 and 6 weeks postpartum. Now, I do understand that some of you are returning to work soon after birth and can’t wait that long so, you can introduce the pump as soon as needed. But, the longer you wait the better. By waiting to introduce our breast pump we are allowing our infant to regulate our supply which can be instrumental in our breastfeeding journey. When we add pumping into our regular daily routine we are demanding additional milk, which means we’ll supply additional milk. This will mean we have to stay on top of our milk removal so we do not become engorged or uncomfortable. When you do decide to start pumping, there is a proper technique, so let’s jump there!
When to Start
When you do decide it’s time to start pumping, we’ll want to introduce it in a way that enables you to store milk but keep engorgement and supply issues at bay. The best way to introduce your pump is to first, breastfeed as normal and then right after your feeding you’ll want to pump for about 10 minutes. By pumping right after we breastfeed we are feeding baby, storing milk and we’ll be done with our milk removal within a 30 minute window. I don’t like to see my Mama’s breastfeed and then an hour later pump and then an hour later breastfeed because 1) you can create a big over supply and 2) you run the risk of burning out. So here is a potential breastfeed/pumping schedule:
6am breastfeed/ pump for 10 minutes
9 am breastfeed
12 pm breastfeed/pump for 10 minutes
3 pm breastfeed
6 pm breastfeed/pump for 10 minutes
9 pm breastfeed
12 pm breastfeed/pump for 10 minutes
3 am breastfeed
6 am breastfeed/pump for 10 minutes
Now, just like when we introduce a pump will vary, how often we introduce it can vary too.
If your plan is to have a deep freezer full of milk, you can pump after every time you breastfeed. If your goal is to have milk for the next few days/weeks I suggest pumping every other feed or at least first thing in the morning, twice during the day, and once overnight or right before bed. We yield the most milk in our overnight hours when our prolactin levels are the highest so getting in a night pump session can make a world of difference.
Now, once you return to work you have a few options. Some Mother’s prefer to ;
Breastfeed when they’re at home and pump while they’re away. I think this technique is great if you’re using a paced bottle feeding method
Some choose to exclusively pump without feeding at breast
And then some choose to wean entirely finding pumping at work too much
With that said, any of the above options that work for YOU and your family are appropriate. Remember, we’re talking about your family here so ultimately this is up to you. Every body is different and so for further more personalized support, please contact me or a LC you know and trust. But, this can be used as a starting point and a guide! You got this!