A breast pump can be a big help if you want to give milk to your baby, but returned to work or want to leave your baby with a sitter. It can also be added if Dad wants to have fun feeding your baby, but you do not want to offer your baby formula. Remember though, if you breastfeed exclusively, does not offer an artificial nipple to your baby until your baby is four to six weeks.
A breast pump suctions milk out of your breast and into the container so you can save it to your baby.
Because each different breast pump, remember to always read and follow the instructions that come with your breast pump. It is very important when putting together an electric pump as it will not work the way it should be if not properly incorporated.
If you borrow or rent an electric pump, please buy tubes brand new and never borrow anything that might come in contact with your breast milk. Never borrow a manual breast pump or hand because milk comes in contact with the majority of types of pumps. Always clean everything that comes associated with breast milk with soap and water every time you use it.
Think about your baby, look at your baby or see pictures of your baby while you pump to initiate let-down reflex. You can also apply warm compresses to your breasts for several minutes before you start pumping if you're having trouble with the let-down reflex.
Just the pump for a maximum of ten to fifteen minutes on each breast. Pumping more than that can cause damage to the nipples and breast pump from the suction in the breast is more powerful and less effective than your baby's mouth.
Once you become used to pump, feel free to pump both breasts at the same time if you have a pump that allows you to pump both breasts.
Remember that when you pump, you may notice a runny milk looks thin (similar to skim milk) to the first. This is the foremilk and is ideal for cooling thirsty babies. After a minute or two, you'll see the condensed milk (similar to milk). This is the milk back and full of nutrients protein, fat and your baby will need. If you do not see a difference in your breast milk when you pump, you may see a separation when you put the milk in the refrigerator and let sit for several hours.
After pumping, breast milk should not sit for more than an hour without cooling. You also can put it in coolers to stay cool if you're pumping at work or traveling with your baby.
Always date your milk when you put it in the refrigerator. You can refrigerate breast milk up to a week, and freeze in freezer for three months.
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