How to Exclusively Pump Breast Milk

Many women who plan to breastfeed are unable to nurse their child due to illness or premature birth. Other women cannot or choose not to nurse due to physical or work limitations but want their baby to receive the nutritional benefits that breast milk provides. For these women, exclusive pumping is an excellent option. The baby receives all the nutritional benefits of breast milk without nursing. Exclusive pumping is demanding, but it is also rewarding and will provide your child with the best nutrition possible during the first year of his life.

Instructions

1

Purchase or rent a double electric breast pump. These pumps are the most efficient and comfortable. If you cannot afford a double electric pump, try a single electric or hand pump.

2

Pump within a few hours of giving birth, if possible. This is when your baby would begin nursing, so you should mimic what he would do.

3

Pump every two to four hours to establish and maintain an adequate milk supply. This means you will pump eight to 10 times every 24 hours, which is similar to how often your infant would nurse.

4

Pump each breast for about 15 minutes before your milk comes in.

5

Pump each breast for two to three minutes after you have emptied your breasts.

6

Pump five to seven times a day after you have established a full milk supply. If your supply goes down, return to pumping eight to 10 times a day.

7

Drain your breasts each time you pump. This will signal your body to produce more milk.

8

Drink plenty of fluids. Drink enough to quench your thirst. Proper hydration helps maintain your milk supply.

9

Consume enough protein, dairy and carbohydrates to keep your milk supply up and energy level high.

10

Feed your baby a bottle of formula if you do not produce enough breast milk to meet her nutritional needs. Most experts agree that exclusively feeding a baby breast milk is best, but it is fine to supplement with formula if necessary.