Tips on Starting to Pump When Breastfeeding
If you’re breastfeeding your baby and considering introducing a breast pump, you may have questions about when, how, or why to start. With so many options and reasons for pumping, it's important to understand when it makes sense for you and your unique journey.
First things first: many insurance companies offer a free breast pump, so it’s a good idea to contact them before your baby arrives to find out what type of pump you're eligible for. Having your breast pump and supplies ready ahead of time will ensure you're prepared to start pumping whenever you need or want to. You may even find you need to begin sooner than you expect!
Here’s an overview of when and why you might want to include pumping into your breastfeeding routine.
When & Why to Start Using a Breast Pump
Example A: Post-Delivery Separation
If your baby is separated from you after delivery, for instance, if they need to go to the NICU or a special care nursery, it’s essential to start pumping as soon as possible to help stimulate your milk production. Ask for a hospital-grade breast pump while you’re in the hospital. Even if your baby isn’t directly feeding from your breasts, pumping will help get your milk supply started and support your body in the early stages of lactation.
Example B: Latching Difficulties or Supplementation Needs
Some babies may struggle with latching or require additional supplementation to help them gain weight. If this happens, consider starting to pump to maintain your milk supply. Every time your baby gets a bottle, you’ll want to pump to replace that feeding, keeping your supply up as though your baby were nursing directly. Consistent pumping helps keep your milk production in balance with your baby’s needs.
Example C: Introducing a Bottle or Building a Milk Stash
What if breastfeeding is going well, but you’d like your partner or a family member to help with feeding the baby? Introducing a bottle around 3 to 6 weeks old is often the best time for an exclusively breastfed baby to begin bottle-feeding. By this time, your baby will have mastered breastfeeding, and it’s a good window to practice using a bottle while building up a milk stash for when you’re away or going back to work.
Of course, these examples don't cover all the possible reasons you might choose to pump. Some parents start pumping from day one, while others begin later if challenges arise, such as latching issues or the desire to build a milk supply for convenience. The important thing is that pumping is a legitimate option at any stage of your breastfeeding journey.
How to Get Started Pumping Breast Milk
First and foremost, whenever your baby is fed from a bottle, remember to pump to replace that feeding to avoid a dip in your milk supply. Breast milk production operates on a supply-and-demand basis, meaning the more you pump or nurse, the more milk your body will produce. To maintain your supply, try to match each bottle feeding with a pumping session.
If you find pumping challenging, don't hesitate to reach out to an internationally board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). They can assess your specific situation, help with flange fitting to ensure you're using the right size for your breast pump, and offer advice to optimise your milk output.
Pumping and bottles often go hand in hand during the breastfeeding journey. What works best for you and your baby is what matters most. An IBCLC is a valuable resource that can guide you through when, why, and how to use a breast pump and bottles to fit your feeding routine. No matter how you choose to feed, they can help you navigate your unique situation with care and support.
Telehealth and local resources have made access to lactation consultants and expert advice more available, so you don't have to face this journey alone. Parents who take the time to learn about breastfeeding while still pregnant often feel better prepared for the challenges that may arise. After all, a breastfeeding journey without challenges is rare, but with knowledge and support, you can overcome those challenges effectively.
Conclusion
Pumping is a great tool for breastfeeding parents, whether you're returning to work, building a milk stash, or managing a separation. By understanding when to start and how to make pumping part of your breastfeeding routine, you can ensure that your milk supply stays consistent and your baby continues to get the nourishment they need. The relationship you build with an IBCLC is an invaluable asset, providing guidance and support through all stages of breastfeeding.
