A breast pump is an amazing solution to help mothers store milk for further feeding. Mothers use breast pumps for various reasons. Some are isolated from their hospitalized newborns, and some return to the workplace several days after the delivery. Whatever the reason is, you should not deprive your baby of the nutrition and benefits of mother’s milk. Therefore, breast pumps arrive. These pumps add convenience to busy mom’s lives while still giving their babies 100% breast milk. However, in the first few days of mommyhood, women do not get the process and face many queries regarding the process.
For those new mommies, here are six tips for pumping and breastfeeding success:
1. Pump Often
Breast milk production is a total supply and demand process. Pumping often will drain the breast. As a result, it will send a signal to the body for more milk generation. The more often your breasts get drained, the higher the milk production. During the working day, try to pump 15 minutes every few hours to get a good supply. Gently press your breasts while pumping. A double breast pump is a good option for a busy work schedule. It arouses milk production as well as saves time.
Before purchasing a pump, ensure that you will buy one of the best-breast-pumps. A good one will not create itchiness to your skin and will establish a good milk supply.
2. Relax
Mental stability plays a vital role when it comes to breast milk. Ensure you’re at peace. Find a quiet and clean place to pump. Try all the tactics you normally do to reduce your stress. It can be eating your favorite food, talking to your best friend, or anything else. A joyful spirit helps the breast produce quality milk. When breastfeeding, find the best position to hold the baby and be relaxed.
3. Take Lots of Fluids
Apparently, breast milk contains 90% of water. Drinking enough water, tea, and juice will keep you hydrated and healthy. It will also help you in the making and maintain breast milk generation. As a breastfeeding and pumping mum, you should take at least six glasses of water and other fluids. However, limit coffee, soda, and caffeinated beverages. Too much caffeine may cause sleeping disorders, irritation, and discomfort in your baby. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. In case you consumed, ensure you avoid breastfeeding your baby two hours after drinking.
4. or Avoid Formula Feedings
Most of the time, breastfeeding takes a toll on mothers, especially the first-time moms. If possible, avoid formula feedings, which will automatically reduce the baby’s demand for your breast milk. So, for producing more milk, ensure to drain the breast. If you have extra milk, you can pump and freeze it. But if you cannot avoid formula feedings, then limit them. You can breastfeed the baby in between formula-feedings to help you maintain your milk supply.
5. Avoid Smoking
Smoking can drastically reduce your milk. It also changes your milk’s taste, which might make the infant refuse to breastfeed or take pumped milk. The transfer of nicotine and other harmful chemicals via milk to your baby may cause severe internal damage. Smoking can also destroy both the mother and baby’s sleeping pattern. So, it is better to avoid this habit during this period for your infant’s shake.
6. Breastfeed On babies’ demand
When you’re with your baby, try to feed him much as possible. You can make a schedule like early mornings, evenings, or weekends.
Some other facts to consider
Try to consume foods that boost breast milk production. Canadian Breastfeeding Foundation advises women to consume fennel, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, and alfalfa for enhancing milk supply.
Stop taking birth control pills during breastfeeding days. Birth control pills contain estrogen, which limits milk production.
While breastfeeding, we urge all moms to take good care of themselves. A morning walk in the fresh air may help to refresh your mind. If you notice the deficiency of milk supply even after maintaining all the things mentioned above, seek professionals’ help.
