The Best Practices For Using Breast Pump

Many mothers worldwide are using breast pumps to provide the benefits of breastfeeding when they have to be away from their babies. Breast pumps can be used to slowly reduce your milk supply if you have to stop breastfeeding suddenly. This also keeps up the milk supply and prevents discomfort and breast engorgement. Many brands, such as Medela in HK, offer the best quality manual and electric breast pumps for the convenience of mothers. 

You can choose from many different types of breast pumps from Medela in HK. Although they may look confusing at first, they are easy to use. If it is your first time using a breast pump, follow these tips to make it easier for you to use breast pumps or tackle any problems with pumping. 

Getting Ready To Pump 

Before you start using the breast pump, make sure that you read all the instructions that came with your pump and know how to put it together. Also, check how often you will need to clean and sanitize the parts. Once you have become familiar with the instructions, find a clean, comfortable spot and a private place to pump so that you can relax. If you are at work, choose a room with a door you can lock. 

Using The Breast Pump

Ensure that you wash your hands before touching the breast shield or breast by using soap or scrubbing for 10 to 15 seconds and then rinse well in warm water. Also, use a clean paper towel to dry your hands completely. Put the pump together while also checking to see if all the parts are clean. Get in the mood by holding your baby, which may improve your milk letdown. A photo or a sniffing piece may also work if your baby is not around. 

Place the breast shield over your breast in such a way that your nipple sits right in the middle of the shield. This means you need to try a few different breast shield sizes to find the best-fitting one. Once you have positioned it correctly, start pumping with a low level of suction and increase the suction as your milk begins to flow. Make sure you empty both breasts during each pumping session and keep in mind that your breasts should feel soft after pumping, with no hard areas. 

After You Finish Pumping

Although it is best to use milk as soon as possible after pumping it, you can freeze it if you will not use it within a few days. However, ensure that you know how to store breast milk safely. After you are done pumping, put the milk in the refrigerator or cooler right away. Then take the pump apart and wash thoroughly any part that comes in contact with your breast or breast milk. You can let the parts air dry. 

What Should You Know?

• Remember that pumping with an electric pump may take 10 to 20 minutes for each breast, but this time can be longer. If you want to know when to stop pumping, watch for signs that your breasts are empty. 
• You will feel a tugging when the pump is on, but it should not be painful. Turn off the pump if it hurts and change the position of the breast shield or try a larger one. 
• Try to pump at least every 3 to 4 hours to keep your milk supply up, and breastfeed as often as you can. If your milk supply is getting smaller, it would be best if you talked to a lactation consultant. 
• You should be aware that a painful lump or swollen area in the breast could be a sign of a blocked milk duct or breast infection. If you notice this, call your doctor. You may even try to solve this problem on your own by pumping or breastfeeding more often.

How To Clean?

The best way would be to refer to your pump’s instruction manual. You may not need to sterilize any removable pump parts in most cases. You can wash them in warm, soapy water. If you are looking for a more convenient option, sanitizing wipes or sterilizing bags can be helpful, especially if you do not have easy access to a sink. These bags can be used by placing the removable parts into the bag steaming in the microwave. If your pump has a rechargeable battery, make sure you recharge between sessions.

The Bottom Line

Remember that there is no need to rush to start pumping, and you don’t need a pump if your baby is healthy and breastfeeding is going well. It is only required when your baby is premature or has special needs, or you are separated for any reason. Also, make sure that you time your sessions right, be hygienic and prepared, and make yourself very comfortable before using the breast pump.