How to Make the Most of Nursing Your Baby

You have made the decision to nurse your baby and that is great! However, your maternity leave is nearly over and now you are faced with needing to express(or pump) your milk to maintain that your baby still gets the nutritional benefits and you get to still have a role in your baby’s development. As you make the transition from full-time nursing to bottle fed breast milk, one of the most important tools will be your breast pump.

There is a wide selection of breast pumps, each with varying advantages, so to help you make a decision about what is best for you, it is necessary to be aware of the types of breast pumps available. They can be divided into types of pumps:

• The hand pump is ideal for moms who will only be expressing once daily or only on occasion.
• The low-cost electric or battery operated pump which can be plugged in and allows for occasional separation, not recommend for daily use as it is somewhat slow.
• The portable electric pump which makes it easy for repeated use and often comes with a tote bag, battery packs, car adapters and more.
• The full-sized automatic piston pump expresses the largest amount of milk in the least amount of time.

Once you have determined the breast pump right for you, there are several things to keep in mind that can add to your pumping success. If possible, purchase your breast pump from someone who can show you how it is used and answer any questions. Cost should not be the only factor in breast pump purchasing; how well it works and how often the breast pump is to be used are also important. Realize that the pump parts can wear out. If you are experiencing a lower amount of expressed milk, the problem could be your pump – not you.

In addition, of you purchase or borrow a used pump remember it may not work as well as a brand new one. In order to express the most possible mike at a time, be sure to use breast massage before and during pumping. Relax—take a few moments to let go of the stress of your day. Some moms find it helpful to use headsets/ear buds to listen to music or sounds from nature. Pay attention to your nipples and breast that they do not become dry and cracked. If this happens, talk to a lactation consultant or your doctor. Pumping should not cause pain, if it does adjust the suction back.

Network with other nursing moms at your workplace and see if you can arrange to pump at the same time and visit. If you are the only nursing mom, you may need to help your co-workers understand why you are pumping. If you are not sure if a breast pump is right for you consider this-- even if you choose to rent a breast pump it is still less expensive than the cost of a month’s supply of formula.

If you have chosen to enjoy the benefits of nursing but must do so through using a breast pump there are several steps you should follow for storage and usage.

• Wash your hands before starting
• If you opt for zip style bags for milk storage be sure to double bag.
• Use 4-6 oz containers/bags to make using/thawing easier. Leave space at the top of the bag to allow room for expansion.
• Date the servings and use oldest 1st also note anything different (food, medication, etc.).
• Breast milk can be left un-refrigerated for 6-10 hours; however, refrigeration as soon as possible is recommended.
• Milk can be stored in the fridge up to 8 days, after which it should be frozen.
• To use stored milk – Defrost frozen milk in a bowl at warm water, never microwave or thaw on stovetop. As you warm the milk turn the package around to help mix the separated cream and milk.
• Thawed milk can be refrigerated, but not refrozen, as this may allow bacteria to grow.
• When transporting your milk, be sure to keep it cold; many moms used insulated tote bags or containers.

Nursing your baby is one of the best things a mother can do for her baby if you choose to do this, you and your baby will be the winners. Select your breast pump and feeding items with care and get ready to enjoy these precious moments in the life of your child.

How to Make the Most of Nursing Your Baby
Selecting a breast pump