Breast pumping has been a lifesaver for many moms, for a various number of reasons in the journey of motherhood. Whether it be something planned, like returning to work or the need to travel, or an unplanned event like a NICU stay, breast pumping is a gift that allows mothers to continue breastfeeding in so many circumstances. That doesn’t mean pumping doesn’t come with its challenges, milk expression being one such challenge.
No matter the advanced technology of a pump, it cannot fully replicate a baby’s unique latch. Expressing milk, even when using a breast pump, can sometimes prove difficult. If you are dealing with issues expressing, use these tips to help you overcome the challenge and maximize your milk production.
Understanding the Basics of Milk Expression
Proper Latch: Ensure your nipples are centered in the pump flange. A poor fit can reduce milk flow. Use our sizing guide to be sure you are using the best size flange.
Comfortable Positioning: Find a comfortable position to pump, whether it’s sitting, reclining, or using a hands-free pumping bra. Consider what positions work best when actually feeding your baby and try those as well.
Relaxation Techniques: Stress and anxiety can hinder milk flow. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before pumping. Be sure you are in an environment where you feel comfortable, which for many is somewhere alone where you won’t be disturbed.
Boosting Milk Expression
Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to your breasts before pumping can help stimulate milk flow. You might try this for a few minutes before you begin the pumping process and continue while pumping, if possible.
Massage: Gently massaging your breasts can help encourage milk release.
Skin-to-Skin Contact: When possible, spend some time skin-to-skin with your baby before pumping. This can help stimulate the let-down reflex.
Pumping Effectively
Pumping Schedule: Establish a regular pumping schedule to maintain your milk supply. Irregularity could be a cause for your body to lessen its supply.
Pumping Frequency: Pump every 2-3 hours during the day, and once or twice at night. Even if your supply has dropped, stick with the frequency to encourage your body to produce more milk.
Pumping Duration: Pump for 10-15 minutes per session, or until your milk flow slows down.
Pumping Techniques: Experiment with different pumping techniques, such as power pumping or alternating between breasts.
Seeking Professional Help
If you continue to experience difficulties with milk expression, consult with a lactation consultant. They can assess your pumping technique, identify any underlying issues, and provide personalized advice.
We are committed to supporting mothers on their breastfeeding journey, particularly those choosing or needing to breast pump. Our high-quality breast pumps are designed to make pumping easier and more efficient. Our pumps are meant to support all mothers, including those struggling with milk expression.
To apply for a 100% insurance-covered breast pump, simply visit our website and fill out the application form. We’ll review your application and contact you with the next steps.
By following these tips and seeking professional help when needed, you can overcome challenges and successfully express your milk. Remember, patience and persistence are key.
Feeling like you’re living on the couch, with a baby constantly at your breast? Take a deep breath: it’s probably cluster feeding, a perfectly normal (though intense) part of newborn life. Understanding this phase is key to managing this phase and making life much easier. Let’s explore cluster feeding and how a breast pump can offer support.
What is Cluster Feeding?
Cluster feeding is when a baby nurses very frequently over a short period, typically in the evenings. They might nurse every 30 minutes to an hour for several hours straight. This can feel like constant feeding, and it’s perfectly normal. It’s not a sign of low milk supply. Instead, it’s a natural behavior and is known to assist in several key areas of parenting a newborn including:
Increase Milk Supply: Frequent nursing signals your body to produce more milk, especially during the crucial early weeks.
Settle Baby for Sleep: Cluster feeding can help your baby feel full and content, leading to longer stretches of sleep.
Comfort and Bonding: Nursing provides comfort and strengthens the bond between you and your baby.
Why Does Cluster Feeding Happen?
Babies will cluster feed for various reasons, but trust that your body and trust the your baby’s instincts. Some reasons for cluster feeding include:
Newborn Growth Spurts: Babies experience rapid growth in the early weeks. Cluster feeding helps them get the extra calories they need.
Evening Fussiness: Many babies are naturally fussier in the evenings. The frequent feeding can soothe them.
Milk Supply Regulation: Your body is still learning how much milk to produce. Cluster feeding helps fine-tune the process.
How to Manage Cluster Feeding:
Prepare for Long Sessions: Clear your schedule and create a comfortable space. Have snacks, drinks, and entertainment within reach.
Embrace the Cuddles: This is a great opportunity for bonding. Enjoy the close contact with your baby.
Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask your partner, family, or friends for help with household chores or other tasks.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and eat healthy meals. This will help you maintain your energy.
Rest When You Can: Sleep when your baby sleeps. You’ll hear this phrase often, and it’s easy to feel the need to do everything but sleep during baby’s napping windows. Even if it’s just for short naps, your rest is vital, so don’t pass it up completely.
Use a Breast Pump for Relief: If your breasts become overly full or sore, a breast pump can offer relief. It can also allow your partner to give a bottle of expressed milk, giving you a break.
When to Seek Help:
While cluster feeding is normal, there are times when you should seek professional help:
Severe Nipple Pain: If you experience intense nipple pain, consult a lactation consultant.
Signs of Dehydration: If your baby shows signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, lethargy), contact your pediatrician.
Persistent Fussiness: If your baby is consistently fussy and not gaining weight, consult your pediatrician.
How a Breast Pump Can Help:
A breast pump can be a valuable tool during cluster feeding.
Relief from Engorgement: Pumping can relieve discomfort from overly full breasts.
Building a Stash: Pumping can help you build a stash of expressed milk for when you need a break.
Partner Support: Your partner can help with feedings using pumped milk, giving you time to rest.
At Hygeia Health, we understand the challenges of new motherhood. We’re committed to supporting breastfeeding moms by providing them with reliable breast pumps. Moms can get a 100% insurance-covered breast pump and Hygeia can help. See if you qualify!
Cluster feeding is a temporary phase. Remember that it’s a normal part of newborn development and a crucial step in establishing your milk supply. Be patient, take care of yourself, and enjoy this special time with your baby.
Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful way to nourish your baby. However, the idea of breastfeeding in public can feel daunting for many new moms. It’s understandable to feel nervous about potential judgment or discomfort. This post will offer practical tips to help you gain confidence and breastfeed comfortably wherever you are.
Start Small and Practice
Begin at Home: Practice breastfeeding in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member. This can help you find comfortable positions and build your confidence.
Choose Familiar Places: Start by breastfeeding in places where you feel comfortable, like a friend’s house or a quiet coffee shop. Gradually expand to more public settings.
Practice Latching: Ensure your baby has a good latch. This minimizes discomfort and allows for efficient feeding, as well as efficient transitions between nursing and holding your baby.
Plan Ahead and Be Prepared
Dress for Success: Wear clothing that allows easy access for breastfeeding. Nursing tops, wrap dresses, and button-down shirts are great options.
Bring a Cover: A nursing cover can provide privacy if you prefer. However, don’t feel obligated to use one if you’re comfortable without it. Some babies even have a preference of having a cover or not.
Scout Locations: When going out, look for places with comfortable seating. If you prefer privacy, search out locations that have family restrooms or designated nursing areas.
Pack Essentials: Bring nursing pads, a burp cloth, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Manage Potential Concerns
Focus on Your Baby: Remember that breastfeeding is a natural and essential act. Your priority is feeding your baby.
Ignore Unwanted Attention: If you encounter negative comments or stares, try to ignore them. You have the right to feed your baby wherever you are.
Find Support: Connect with other breastfeeding moms online or in person. Sharing experiences and tips can boost your confidence.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your state’s laws regarding breastfeeding in public. In most places, you have the right to breastfeed wherever you are legally allowed to be.
How a Breast Pump Can Help
If you’re struggling to grow comfortable with breastfeeding in public, a breast pump can be a valuable tool for building confidence. Pumping allows you to express milk and have it available for your baby if you find yourself in situation where you are not comfortable to breastfeed. Perhaps it’s because your baby is fussy, there is no comfortable seating, or the crowd is too large for your liking. Whatever the reason, having pumped milk for bottle feeding may bring relief in certain public situations.
Hygeia Health is committed to supporting the breastfeeding journey, which often requires feeding in public and on-the-go and utilizing pumped milk. A reliable breast pump can make a huge difference in your breastfeeding experience. But did you know you can get a 100% insurance-covered breast pump? Hygeia can help. See if you qualify!
Building confidence in public breastfeeding takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself, and remember that you’re doing a great job. You have the right to feed your baby wherever you are.
Many moms worry about not pumping a normal amount of breast milk particularly when they are dependent upon pumping. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, or to feel discouraged if you don’t see large volumes of milk. But the truth is, there’s a wide range of “normal” when it comes to pumping output. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions and help you understand what to expect.
The “Normal” Breast Milk Output Range is Wide
There’s no single number that defines a “good” pumping session or how “good” your overall supply is. Factors like your baby’s age, time of day, how often you pump, and your individual body all play a role. Some moms might consistently pump several ounces per session, while others might only get a fraction of that. Both can be perfectly normal.
Exclusively pumping mothers: Seeing between 2-4 ounces combined from both breasts during a pumping session every 2-3 hours is often considered the high end of the pumping spectrum and reserved for moms who exclusively pump.
Mothers primarily breastfeeding / pump occasionally: Seeing smaller amounts, sometimes as little as 0.5 to 2 ounces per session, is completely normal for a mother only occasionally pumping. This is no reflection of an overall low milk supply.
Pumped Amount Isn’t a Direct Measure of Supply
It’s important to understand that pump output doesn’t always reflect your total milk supply. Babies are often more efficient at removing milk than pumps. If your baby is gaining weight well and producing plenty of wet and dirty diapers, you’re likely making enough milk, even if your pump output seems low.
Factors Affecting Breast Milk Pumping Output
Baby’s Age: In the early weeks, when your milk supply is still establishing, you might pump smaller amounts. As your baby gets older and your supply regulates, you might see an increase.
Time of Day: Milk supply is often higher in the morning. You might notice a difference in output between morning and evening pumping sessions.
Pumping Frequency: The more often you pump, the more milk you’ll likely produce. Regular and frequent milk removal signals your body to make more milk.
Pump Type and Fit: A good quality pump with properly fitted flanges is essential. A poor fit can significantly reduce milk output.
Stress and Relaxation: Stress can inhibit milk flow. Try to relax and create a calm environment before and during pumping.
Hydration and Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet supports milk production.
Common Misconceptions
It’s completely normal to have concerns over your milk supply or to question whether or not your body is doing “enough.” This is commonly spurred along by misconceptions that permeate the breastfeeding world. Let’s clear up some of these points of confusion.
“If I don’t pump a lot, I don’t have enough milk.”
This is a common misconception. As stated before, pumping output is not a direct indication of your overall milk supply.
“Everyone else pumps more than me.”
Social media can create a false sense of what’s “normal.” Remember that everyone’s body is different. Try following some accounts of certified lactation consultants or breastfeeding experts.
“I need to pump a full bottle every time.”
This is not always the case. Small, frequent pumping sessions can be just as effective as longer sessions.
What to Focus On
Try to focus on the things that indicate the state of your breastfeeding journey. These things will also help you know how to adjust and change.
Baby’s Cues: Pay attention to your baby’s hunger cues and feeding behaviors.
Weight Gain and Diaper Output: These are the best indicators of whether your baby is getting enough milk.
Consistency: Pump regularly and consistently to maintain your milk supply.
Proper Pump Fit: Ensure your pump flanges fit correctly.
How Hygeia Health Can Help:
A quality breast pump can make a significant difference in your pumping experience. At Hygeia Health, we’re dedicated to providing moms with reliable and effective breast pumps, which can make a huge difference in your breastfeeding journey, especially if you are pumping to maintain your milk supply.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get a 100% insurance-covered breast pump and make your breastfeeding journey smoother and more successful. Don’t let pumping output discourage you. Focus on your baby’s cues, and trust your body. Remember, you’re doing a great job!
Congratulations! You’ve reached the six-month mark in your breastfeeding journey. This is a huge accomplishment, and you and your baby have likely established a rhythm that works for you. But as your baby grows and develops, breastfeeding can change. This post will explore some common challenges and solutions for breastfeeding babies six months and older, and how a good breast pump can continue to support your journey.
Decreased Frequency of Feedings
As your baby starts solids, they may nurse less often. This is normal. Offer the breast before solids to ensure they are still getting the majority of their nutrition from breast milk. Continue to respond to their hunger cues, and don’t worry if the frequency changes.
Managing Distractions
Older babies are more aware of their surroundings. They might get distracted while nursing. Try breastfeeding in a quiet environment with minimal stimulation. You can also try nursing while your baby is sleepy or in a carrier.
Changes in Milk Supply
Your milk supply might adjust as your baby’s needs change. This is usually a natural process. Continue to nurse on demand and pump if needed to maintain your supply. If you have concerns about your milk supply, talk to a lactation consultant.
Returning to Work
If you’re returning to work, pumping becomes essential. Establish a pumping routine that mimics your baby’s feeding schedule. A good quality breast pump can make all the difference in maintaining your milk supply and making pumping at work more manageable.
Weaning
Some babies start to wean naturally around this age, while others continue to breastfeed for much longer. Follow your baby’s lead. If they are showing signs of weaning (like refusing the breast or being more interested in solids), respect their cues. If you want to continue breastfeeding, keep offering the breast and pumping as needed.
Teething
Teething can sometimes make breastfeeding uncomfortable. Offer your baby chilled teethers before nursing. If your baby is biting, gently break the suction and offer them a teether. Consistency is key.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Sometimes, babies who previously slept well might start waking more frequently at night. This can be related to developmental leaps, teething, or simply wanting comfort. Offering the breast can be a soothing way to help them back to sleep.
The Importance of Continued Breastfeeding
Even as your baby explores solid foods, breast milk continues to provide essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune protection. The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding until at least two years of age, or for as long as mother and baby desire.
How a Breast Pump Can Help:
A reliable breast pump can be invaluable for mothers breastfeeding older babies. It can help:
- Maintain milk supply, especially when separated from your baby
- Provide expressed milk for when you’re away or if your baby needs extra
- Relieve engorgement
- Support your breastfeeding journey as your baby grows and changes
At Hygeia Health, we understand the importance of having a quality breast pump. All moms should have access to one, and that’s why we help moms get a 100% insurance-covered breast pump. A reliable breast pump can make a huge difference in your breastfeeding experience, especially as your baby gets older and your needs change.
Breastfeeding beyond six months is a remarkable achievement. While there may be challenges, remember that you and your baby are a team. Trust your instincts, seek support when needed, and enjoy this special time.
Navigating the early days of breastfeeding can be overwhelming, especially for a mom who finds herself in the dreaded “pump trap” when trying to manage engorgement and proper milk supply. Understanding how your body regulates milk production is key to a successful breastfeeding journey.
Breast milk is packed with antibodies, nutrients, and everything your little one needs to grow and thrive. One of the most fascinating aspects of breastfeeding is how your body knows exactly how much milk to make. This is all thanks to a complex system of hormones and feedback loops. Understanding how breast milk supply regulation works can help you feel more confident in your breastfeeding journey.
This post will break down the fascinating science behind milk supply, explain how to avoid the “pump trap” that can exacerbate engorgement, and offer tips for managing your milk production long-term.
What to know about establishing your supply
The first few weeks after birth are crucial for establishing a good milk supply. Your body works on a supply-and-demand system. The more frequently and effectively your baby nurses, or you pump, the more signals your body receives to produce milk. This is why frequent milk removal is so important, especially in the early days.
It’s important to remember that your body is designed to regulate milk production; you’re not solely responsible for making it happen. Hormones play a crucial role. Prolactin, the “milk-making” hormone, is released when your baby nurses. More prolactin means more milk. Oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone,” is also released during breastfeeding. It triggers the muscles around the milk glands to contract, helping milk flow—this is the “let-down” reflex.
What to know about the role of feedback loops
Your body uses feedback loops to fine-tune milk production. Imagine it like a thermostat. When your baby nurses or you pump, milk is removed from your breasts. This signals your body to produce more milk to replenish the supply. The emptier your breasts become, the stronger the signal to make more milk. Conversely, if your breasts are full, your body receives signals to slow down production.
This is why it’s important to breastfeed or pump frequently and on demand, especially in the early weeks. Responding to your baby’s hunger cues and allowing them to nurse for as long as they want helps establish a strong milk supply. It also helps to avoid supplementing with formula unless medically necessary, as this can interfere with your body’s natural supply-and-demand system.
What is the “pump trap” and how to avoid it
The ‘pump trap’ happens when a mom is pumping to relieve engorgement, but it becomes a never-ending cycle because the body continues overproduce.
While many moms worry about producing enough milk, the pendulum swings both ways as oversupply and engorgement can also be a challenge. Engorgement can be very uncomfortable, potentially leading to problems like mastitis, and making it difficult for babies to latch.
Frequent feedings or pumping sessions are crucial for establishing a healthy milk supply, but they can also contribute to overproduction, especially when pumping for relief. While your baby’s cues will tell you when they’re finished feeding, pumping requires you to decide when to stop. Completely emptying your breasts with each pumping session signals your body to continue producing large amounts of milk. If you’re experiencing oversupply, the key, is to avoid completely draining your breasts when you pump.
It is also important to note that if you pump before breastfeeding in order to relieve engorgement and tightness in your breasts, express only enough milk to allow your baby to latch comfortably.
How to best manage long-term milk supply
As your baby grows and their feeding patterns change, your milk supply will adjust accordingly. Your body is remarkably adaptable and can meet your baby’s changing needs. Even if you experience a temporary dip in supply due to illness, stress, or changes in routine, your body can usually bounce back with consistent milk removal.
There are several factors that can influence milk supply and it is valuable to be aware of them as a means of knowing what can help you manage over or under supply.
Frequency of milk removal: As mentioned already, frequent breastfeeding or pumping will help your body increase supply.
Effectiveness of milk removal: Ensuring your baby is latching properly or that your pump is working efficiently is crucial.
Hydration and nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and eating a healthy diet supports milk production.
Certain medications: Some medications can interfere with milk supply. Talk to your doctor about any medications you’re taking.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems or retained placental fragments, can affect milk supply.
When to seek help
It’s important to also know that breast engorgement is not always a sign of oversupply, so if you are experiencing engorgement but feel it isn’t due to oversupply don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation and provide personalized guidance and support. They can help you optimize your breastfeeding technique, address any underlying issues, and develop a plan to boost your milk supply if needed.
We’re Here to Support You:
Having a reliable and easy-to-use pump can be a tremendous relief to a mom as she helps her body regulate milk supply, especially in the early weeks. We’re committed to supporting breastfeeding mothers in all aspects of the journey and even offer a way for moms to get a 100% insurance covered breast pump.
Our high-quality breast pumps are designed to make pumping easier and more efficient so that, in the end, you have a way to get your one-of-a-kind milk to your baby. To apply for a 100%-insurance-covered breast pump, simply visit our website and fill out the application form. We’ll review your application and contact you with the next steps.
