Using a breast pump for the first time can be intimidating. Lactation consultant Julie Hawksley will walk you through how to use both an electric breast pump and a manual breast pump. You'll learn how to use them most efficiently, how pumping should feel, how often to pump, and how long each pumping session should take.
Hi, I'm Julie, and I'm a lactation consultant. Today I'm working with Lexis, and we'll be talking about different types of breast pumps and the best ways to use them.
Before pumping, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare. First, wash your hands so you don't contaminate any of the parts. Read the instructions for proper assembly, cleaning, and operation of your pump.
Use pillows to support you back.
HOW TO USE AN ELECTRIC PUMP
Step 1: To start using the electric pump, the first step is to place the flange over your breast and line up the flange with your nipples centered within the tunnel. Be sure that the flange is a good fit – it's common for moms to need to move up a size. Be sure to hold the flange gently but securely against your breast in order to maintain a good seal.
Step 2: Hold one flange in place with your arm and use your other hand to place a flange on the second breast.
Step 3: Hold the bottles in place with one arm and hand, and use your other hand to turn on the machine. Start with a fast speed and low suction to initiate the letdown or the flow of your milk. This mimics the way your baby breastfeeds.
Step 4: Once your milk starts flowing, turn the speed down and then very gradually increase the suction. Consider a hands-free pumping bra so that you can read, talk on the phone, or work while you're pumping. While you're pumping, watch the flow of your milk. If you're noticing that it's slowing down, you can try increasing the speed again to see if that triggers the letdown or flow of more milk. And many moms have multiple letdowns during a single pumping session.
Continue pumping for two to five more minutes once you notice the milk stops, to be sure that you have good full drainage. Expect the amount of milk that you collect from each pumping session to vary and to change as your baby grows.
If you're returning to work, you want to pump about every three hours while you're away from your baby.
HOW TO USE A MANUAL PUMP
Manual pumps require that you pump a piston or squeeze a lever to create suction. These pumps typically empty one breast at a time but might require both hands to operate.
Step 1: The first step is to apply the flange to the breast.
Step 2: And then begin pumping. It may take a few minutes before your milk starts flowing.
Start with fast light squeezes to initiate the letdown or flow of your milk. Then use a stronger, slower motion to keep the milk flowing. This two-speed action mimics your baby feeding at the breast and may help you pump more milk faster. If you're having trouble getting the milk out, use your other hand to massage-compress the breast.
Step 3: Switch breasts about every five minutes, and make sure both breasts receive about 15 minutes of stimulation. Don't worry if one breast produces more than the other. This is normal. If you're concerned about your baby's feedings, contact your lactation consultant or your doctor.
Video production by Corduroy Media