After two weeks of nursing, I decided to exclusively pump. This journey had a lot of trial and error. However, I navigated my way through it and found what worked for me. You will too. Here are six of my top tips on exclusively pumping!
You can read more about why I chose to exclusively pump here and my list of essential breastfeeding items here!
Tip #1: Pump often
I pumped at least eight to nine times a day, for at least thirty minutes, every two hours to ensure I was keeping up with my milk production. I kept track with a spreadsheet while tracking how much Valkyrie ate on Baby Tracker.
At the beginning of my journey, I was worried about pumping in public or with family around. I didn’t want anyone to feel uncomfortable, but I felt uncomfortable. My breasts hurt feeling full and I felt bad for not pumping. Therefore, I pumped everywhere regardless of who was around me.
This isn’t to say that you need to pump as often as me or necessarily everywhere. Pump as often as it fits for you and wherever you feel comfortable. Everyone’s milk production, lifestyle, wants and needs differ. I’m saying to be sure to pump, even if that’s 10 to 15 minutes per session. This way your body knows to keep producing milk.
Tip #2: Stay hydrated and rested
Not consuming enough fluids or not getting enough rest can eventually lead to a decrease in milk production. Not to mention, the majority of breast milk is water. The body can feel the lack of fluids or sleep too. Be sure to take in enough fluids whether that’s through food or beverages, and get enough shut-eye.
Tip #3: Use the correct flange size
It’s important to use the correct flange size. It’ll assist in emptying the breasts of milk and could increase milk production. Not having the correct size can do the opposite. Legendairy Milk and Pumpables have free, downloadable nipple rulers. A lactation consultant is a great contact to have as well during this journey!
Tip #4: Stick to a schedule
Create a schedule that works for you! I read the importance of pumping overnight. However, that wasn’t something I wanted to do. I tried nursing overnight and pumping. It drained me. I chose to rest instead. However, I pumped before bed and first thing in the morning.
I’d start pumping anywhere from five to six in the morning and end at 10 to 11 at night. I pumped every two hours starting from the last pump. For example, I’d start at 6am, 8am, 10am, and so on. This consistent schedule helped my body understand when it was time to pump, similar to a feeding schedule.
Tip #5: Have extra sets of pump parts and accessories
If you plan to exclusively pump, I highly recommend having extra pump parts and accessories! I wish I did and I know now to prepare some for our future children. My least favorite thing about pumping was cleaning parts. It was probably the worst task for me. I felt like I’d pump, store milk away, clean parts, turn around, then have to pump again. Having extra parts come in handy too if any break or go missing.
Other supplies and items I found necessary for breastfeeding are listed here! I go into detail with why I like them and what I used them for. I relied heavily on these items as they made it possible for me to have a smooth pumping journey.
Tip #6: Make your pump mobile
My main pump was the Spectra S2. This is a wall pump. However, I used this battery pack and a luggage strap to make it mobile. I also used the Legendairy Milk (LM) silicone collection cups instead of the plastic flange/bottle setup that came with the Spectra S2. I enjoyed using the LM Imani i2 Wearable Breast Pumps as well!
Making your pump mobile will help you get things done around the house and out of the house easier. If anything, it makes pumping anywhere, at any time convenient. I felt that I was able to get more done and even spend more time with my daughter.
The most important tip that I have is to put your health first. Your child needs you at your best and if breastfeeding doesn’t make you feel at your best, then please don’t feel the need to continue. Fed is best, however that’s done.
