CarolyneMcquaid992

Top 10 Tips for Better Breast Pumping

1.	Select the right kind of pump. Breast pumps vary, so it is important that you select the kind of 	pump that best suits your needs. Mothers who pump occasionally make use of a different type 	of pump than moms who need to pump several times a day. This ensures best results and 	minimizes breast damage. 2.	Relax. Milk ejection reflex can be conditioned though relaxation. Before starting, gather all the 	equipment needed - feeding bottles, tissues, chair, and the breast pump. Apply your individual 	techniques to relax your body before pumping. 3.	Rehydrate. Drink plenty of water before pumping. Moms who have problems lactating may 	consult their doctors for possible supplements or methods to stimulate milk production. 4.	Massage your breast first. Massage your breast for a few minutes for better stimulation. Beginning at the armpit, gently use your fingertips to make small spiral circles slowly towards 	your. Repeat this massage during pumping, or whenever you feel like your breast is not 	producing enough milk. 5.	Pump frequently for shorter periods of time. Most moms would pump once or twice a day for 	longer periods. However, experts recommend pumping 3 or 4 times a day for shorter periods. This ensures you have enough supply of breast milk, stimulates milk production and at the same 	time, can help reduce sore nipples. 6.	Pump for a longer period of time in the morning. Your breasts produce more milk in the 	morning, so put more time into collecting the precious milk early in the day.

7.	Keep your baby close by. Having your baby near you when you pump can stimulate hormones 	that control your milk production. If it’s not possible to have him or her next to you, keep a 	picture, baby blanket or clothes close by while you pump. 8.	Once in a while, pump your breast while nursing the baby on the other. Doing this helps you get 	the hang of breast pumping. It also stimulates the milk ejection reflex, which is essential in 	releasing milk. 9.	If you think the pump is not doing its job, consider replacing it. Sometimes, the reason why 	moms can’t produce enough milk could be due to their breast pumps. Drs. Bill and Martha 	Sears, have some great advice on how to choose a breast pump that’s right for you. 10.	Don’t forget to nurse your baby. Don’t be dependent on the breast pump. It is only there to 	support. Make sure you spend quality time nursing your baby to create that 	special bond between mother and child.

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