Our best tips for you who are going to use a breast pump

As a new mom, there is a lot to think about. Is my baby sleeping enough, are they sleeping too much, does the poop smell okay, why won't they stop crying? It can feel like the list just keeps growing and growing. And in the midst of all this, the breast pump issue arises. Even though a breast pump may seem complicated at first glance, they are actually quite easy to use once you get used to them. But most importantly, they are fantastic for making everyday life work with a small child when you are not there. 

 

Here is a quick guide to help you with the basics of using a breast pump:

 

Manual and electric breast pump?

Both are good, but you will probably prefer one over the other. And in some cases, it can be nice to have a manual pump like Elvie Curve when you are breastfeeding or using an electric breast pump on the other breast.

Electric breast pumps, such as Elvie Pump or Elvie Stride, make pumping easy while allowing you to express milk quickly. Manual breast pumps can be a good choice when you want to pump one feeding a day or just pump occasionally.

With an electric pump, you can set the speed you prefer, providing a good rhythm throughout the pumping while giving your hands a rest. With a manual pump, you can control the speed yourself, which might feel a bit more like when your child is breastfeeding.

With some manual pumps, you must continuously create a vacuum to stimulate milk flow. So in addition to cost and features, there are several factors to consider when choosing a pump. If you feel unsure, you can always consult your midwife. 

 

 

Now we begin!

• Read through your breast pump manual carefully first (we know, boring, but important!) 
• Clean and sterilize the pump before using it for the first time.
• Choose a calm and comfortable place for your pumping so that you feel relaxed
• Wash your hands before you start to avoid bacteria in the pump or your milk.
• Assemble the pump according to the instructions.

 

Quick tips for electric pumps

1. Find the right size of breast shield by trying different sizes until you find the one that feels right for you. The right size of the breast shield is important for the pumping to be comfortable and effective for you. 
2. When you start pumping, you can expect the milk to start flowing within 2 minutes. Some electric pumps automatically adjust suction and speed. Elvie Pump has two modes: stimulation and expression. It starts in stimulation mode and automatically switches to expression when the milk comes.
3. When you feel that you are done pumping, you can turn off the pump (your breasts feel soft and milk production has decreased).
4. Carefully remove the breast funnels.
5. Unscrew the milk bottles and put on the cap. By storing breast milk, there is always food for the baby even if you are not at home. 
6. Wash the breast pump after use, preferably on the top rack of the dishwasher. Feel free to wipe it off afterwards.

 

More advice for you who are a mom

• Breastfeeding takes time, especially in the beginning when a pumping session takes about 40 minutes. Turn off other demands and see it as personal time so that you don't feel stressed. Once you get used to it, pumping with an electric pump usually only takes 15-20 minutes.
• Pumping should not hurt, and if it does, try changing the size and/or position of the breast shield.
• The more you pump, the more milk you produce. So aim to pump every 3-4 hours to keep up or increase milk production.
• Try to relax when you start pumping. Put on your favorite show on TV or something else that doesn't require too much attention.
• Feel free to massage your breasts when you pump, it increases milk flow. 
• Drink plenty of water and try to avoid too much coffee. 
• Avoid smoking. Smoking can reduce your milk production, alter the taste, and affect your baby's sleep.
• Take care of yourself and don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.

 

Focus on the positive

When you pump, try to remember why you are doing it. One of the biggest advantages of using a breast pump is that your partner can also feed the baby, which means you get more freedom and personal time, which is not bad to have as a new parent. Pump, freeze, and schedule a lunch with your friends and feel confident that your baby has everything they need even if you are not there. So in that way, a breast pump is an investment for you and your family. 

 

 

 

 

Here you will find Elvie breast pumps: