6 min. read Many mums use a breast pump to continue breastfeeding if they’re returning to work or just want some more flexibility around feeding time. It’s a way to give your baby all the benefits of breast milk, even when you can’t be there. We put together a quick guide on how to express milk to explain the benefits of using a pump, tips for pumping away from home, maintaining your milk supply, and how to store breast milk safely.
Most women start to express milk after 6 months, but there might be circumstances when you need to at an earlier stage. To express milk, a breast pump is used. A breast pump is a useful tool that can help you continue nursing throughout your breastfeeding journey. Some mums find expressing milk useful in the beginning, especially if their baby is having trouble latching as this helps to initiate their milk supply. Once they’ve established breastfeeding, other mums find it useful to express milk so their partner can help with night feeds, or if they’re returning to work. Whatever your needs, think of expressing milk as a way to breastfeed with more flexibility.
Whether you’re expressing milk at home for a night feed, or expressing at work, there are some key things to keep in mind to help things go smoothly. If you know that you’ll be away from your baby, start to incorporate a breast pump into your daily routine a few weeks beforehand. You’ll start a supply of milk for your baby and get used to using a breast pump. 2. Find a comfortable place The more comfortable you are, the easier it will be to let down milk. Before you sit down to express milk, be sure to find a quiet and private space and don’t be afraid to add personal touches with things like lighting and music. It’s also a good idea to look for seating with plenty of support so you can sit upright. It’s easier to get your milk flowing this way. 3. Pump as many times as you would feed To maintain your supply, be sure to pump milk at least as many times as you would normally feed. So, if you would normally feed three times during the time that you’re away, be sure to pump milk at least as many times as this.
1. Plan ahead
There are several different types of pumps that you can choose from and different benefits to each. Look for something that’s designed to help you feel comfortable and think about your overall lifestyle. Do you prefer something that’s designed for on-the-go use? Or do you just need something that lets you express milk quickly?
Best for moms who want to save time
The Double electric breast pump is the most efficient option. Although it’s a bigger investment, you’ll get more milk in a shorter amount of time, making it a good choice for moms who express every day – at home or at work.
Best for moms who want an everyday all-rounder
The Single electric breast pump with soft massage cushions is the more portable option in the electric range. You’ll get the same comfortable design and technology as the Double, plus a battery pack that allows you to pump if there’s no electricity outlet close by.
Best for moms who want a portable option for on-the-go use, or occasional expressing
Want something that’s light and fits in your handbag, or only planning to express every so often? A manual breast pump gives you flexibility and a simple backup option. Manual isn’t as fast as electric, but you can take it everywhere!
The hormone responsible for expressing milk is called oxytocin. It can be triggered in a few different ways, including seeing your baby. Many mums find it can help to have a photograph of their baby on hand if they’re expressing away from home to help with this. And you might also like to have breast pads on hand to protect your clothing from milk when you’ve finished expressing
When you express milk be sure to freeze or refrigerate it. You can then thaw or warm it up when you’d like to feed your baby. Here are some guidelines to keep your milk safe. See more below ↓
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Ultimate protection for your breast milk
Philips Avent breast milk storage bags provide safe and secure storage for your precious breast milk. They can be stored in the fridge or freezer and are pre-sterilized for immediate use.
See all benefits Use these tips to prepare a feed for your baby using expressed milk. See more below ↓
A final note If you’re new to pumping remember that you really can’t be too comfortable. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be to express milk. Sometimes this might be difficult if you’re trying to pump during a busy day at work, or you’re in a spot that you don’t know so well, so give yourself plenty of time to practise pumping at home, and go gently. You’ll soon get the hang of it.
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