Pumping Tips
Stimulating let-down is the key to effective pumping because, let-down makes the milk in all parts of the breast accessible for nursing or expressing. The sensations of pumping are not the same as the sensations of breastfeeding so; you may need some assistance in encouraging let-down. Pumping is a learned skill that takes practice. The following are some tips for more effective pumping:
* Always wash your hands before pumping your breasts
* Make yourself comfortable. Choose a comfortable place such as chair, couch or bed
* Relax! Choose relaxing music, put the baby’s picture next to you, feel or smell a piece of the baby’s clothing or blanket
* Minimize distractions. Take the phone off the hook, distract older children before you try to start pumping
* Apply warm moist heat to your breasts. This opens the milk ducts and allows milk to flow easily
* Massage your breasts in a circular motion or from the top of your breasts toward the nipples
* Stimulate your nipples by rolling them between your thumb and finger or gently rubbing them with the palm of your hand held flat
* Use rhythmic motion like the baby’s suck to stimulate let-down
* Obtain a hospital grade double electric breast pump such as the Lactina or Symphony pumps available for rental from the Lactation Consultant
* Moisten the inside of the flange that touches your skin with your milk or water before turning on the pump
* Center your nipple in the flange to prevent sor, bruised nipples
* Start the suction on minimum setting and gradually increase to comfort. If pumping hurts stop and reset at the low setting
* Pump 15 to 20 minutes each pumping session
* After pumping, disassemble parts and wash the parts which touch the milk in hot soapy water, rinse in clear hot water and air dry. All parts are safe in the top shelf of a dishwasher or you may purchase the micro steam bags and steam clean in the microwave
(570) 340-2100 TTY (570) 969-9705
Debra Derby, RN, IBCLC . Kathy McCormick, RN, BSN, IBCLC . Corinne Staples RN, CLC