Tessa Quinn
There are several reasons why you may want to start pumping breast milk in the hospital. For instance, your baby might be in the NICU, or you may want to exclusively pump from the beginning and not nurse at all. It is important to start pumping as soon as possible after your baby's birth, as it may be harder to develop your milk supply if you wait. If you are using a pump that others have used, it is important to clean it with disinfectant wipes before use. If you don't bring your pump to the hospital, you will be provided with a hospital-grade pump to use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to start pumping | Whenever it makes sense for you. Many new moms begin pumping right after their baby is born, especially if the baby is premature, has special needs, or is in the NICU. |
| Pumping frequency | Every 2-3 hours during the day and every 4 hours at night. Aim for 8 sessions in a 24-hour period, pumping for 15 minutes at a time. |
| Pumping duration | Pump for at least 10-15 minutes per breast in the first few days after birth. |
| Pump type | Electric pumps are easier to use, faster, and more suitable for regular or daily pumping. Manual pumps are inexpensive, portable, and suitable for occasional use. Hospital-grade pumps are also available. |
| Pump accessories | Properly sized flanges to prevent breast tissue damage and maximize milk output. |
| Pump cleaning | Clean the pump with disinfectant wipes before use. Wash hands before pumping to prevent germs from entering the milk. Sterilize pump parts daily using methods such as boiling or using a dishwasher's sani-cycle. |
| Milk storage | Keep milk cool using ice or ice packs. Thaw frozen milk by putting it in the refrigerator and labeling it with the date and time. Do not thaw or warm milk in hot water or the microwave. |
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What You'll Learn
You can use your own pump or a hospital-grade pump
If you plan to breastfeed your baby, pumping is a great way to build up a stash of breast milk for your little one. Many new mothers wonder when and where to start pumping, and the hospital can be a convenient place to begin. Here are some insights on why you may consider using your own pump or a hospital-grade pump during your stay:
Using your own pump in the hospital offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows you to familiarize yourself with your pump and become comfortable using it. This can be advantageous once you return home, as you will already be confident in operating your pump independently. Additionally, using your own pump ensures that you are the sole user, eliminating any potential concerns about pump hygiene or the need to purchase sanitizing accessories. By bringing your own pump, you can also save time, as you won't need to wait for access to a hospital pump, which may be in high demand.
On the other hand, hospital-grade pumps offer distinct advantages as well. These pumps are designed for multiple users and are thoroughly sanitized between uses, ensuring a safe and hygienic option for new mothers. Hospital-grade pumps are often more powerful and efficient than personal pumps, which can be beneficial for establishing and maintaining milk supply. They are also readily available in the hospital, saving you the hassle of bringing your own pump and any associated accessories.
It's worth noting that hospital-grade pumps are designed with a closed system, preventing milk from entering the tubing. This makes them safer for multiple users and easier to sanitize. Personal pumps, on the other hand, may require additional cleaning accessories to ensure proper hygiene. If you plan to use your own pump, it's important to familiarize yourself with the cleaning process and have the necessary cleaning supplies on hand.
Ultimately, the decision to use your own pump or a hospital-grade pump depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option, and don't hesitate to consult with the lactation consultants or nursing staff at the hospital for guidance. They can provide valuable advice and support to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your breastfeeding goals. Remember, every mother's journey is unique, and finding what works best for you and your baby is most important.
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The right time to start pumping depends on your situation
The right time to start pumping breast milk depends on your situation. Many new mothers begin pumping right after their baby is born, either in the hospital or birthing centre, to help initiate breastfeeding or encourage milk supply. It is especially important to get an early start on pumping if you are unable to nurse your baby from birth, for instance, if your baby is premature, has special needs, or is in the NICU.
If your baby is very sleepy after birth, you may want to pump every few hours to establish a supply. If your baby is unable to breastfeed, pumping as soon as possible after birth is recommended, as waiting may make it harder to develop your supply. In the first two weeks, pump every 2 to 3 hours during the day and at least once during the night. This is as often as your baby would breastfeed, about 8 to 10 times per day. Pumping signals your body to make more milk, and full breasts signal your body to make less.
If you are planning to pump in the hospital, you can bring your own pump or use a hospital-grade pump. If you are getting an insurance-covered pump, you can bring it to the hospital and start pumping right away. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the instructions and practice good cleaning habits before using your pump.
If you are unsure about when to start pumping, it is best to ask a lactation consultant at the hospital for advice. They can also assist you with sizing for your pump flange, which will help with overall milk output and can help prevent breast tissue damage.
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How to clean your pump and its kit
It is important to clean your breast pump and its kit to prevent germs from getting into the milk. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Before Pumping:
Wash your hands to keep germs from getting into the milk.
After Pumping:
- Let the pump run for a few minutes to dry the inside of the tubing.
- Separate the parts that came in contact with the milk.
- Rinse the parts in cool water to remove milk protein.
- Wash the parts in warm soapy water with a mild liquid detergent.
- Rinse the parts thoroughly with hot water for 10-15 seconds.
- Place the parts on a clean paper towel or drying rack and allow them to air dry. Avoid using cloth towels as they can carry germs and bacteria.
- Clean the wash basin and bottle brush with soap and warm water. Rinse and allow them to air dry.
- If your tubing has water droplets, turn on the pump for a few minutes until the tubing is dry.
- If your tubing has milk or mould in it, throw it away and replace it with a new set.
Daily or Weekly Sanitization:
- Sanitise pump parts daily, especially if your baby is less than two months old, was born prematurely, or has a weakened immune system.
- Steam the pump parts using a microwave or plug-in steam system according to the manufacturer's directions.
- Alternatively, boil the disassembled parts in a pot of water for 5-20 minutes. Use tongs to remove the parts and allow them to air dry.
- Some pump parts can be put in the top rack of a dishwasher.
Additional Tips:
- Consult the instruction manual for specific cleaning and sanitising instructions for your pump and kit.
- Some pump manufacturers make wipes specifically for cleaning breast pumps, which can be convenient when away from home.
- If you are using a pump that is shared with others, clean it with disinfectant wipes before use and wear disposable gloves.
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How to store your milk
If you are bringing milk to the hospital, it is important to keep it cool in a small cooler with ice or ice packs. The length of time that the milk is usable depends on where you store it.
If you are using a pump that is used by others, clean the pump with disinfectant wipes before use. Wear disposable gloves to keep disinfectant off your hands and breasts. After pumping, let the pump run for a few minutes to dry the inside of the tubing. Separate the parts that came into contact with the milk and rinse them in cool water to remove milk protein. Wash the parts in warm, soapy water with a mild liquid detergent, then rinse in clear water and air-dry on a clean towel. You should sterilize pump parts daily by using a Medela Quick-Clean bag, boiling the parts for 20 minutes, or washing them in a dishwasher on a 'sani-cycle'.
If you are bringing your own pump to the hospital, it is recommended to order it in advance and familiarize yourself with the instructions. You should also ensure that you have the right flange fit. If you are obtaining an insurance-covered pump, you can bring it with you to the hospital and start pumping right away. If you do not bring your pump, the hospital will provide you with a hospital-grade pump to use.
If you are bringing milk home from the hospital, it is important to thaw frozen milk using the oldest milk first. Put the container in the refrigerator and once all the ice crystals are melted, label it with the thawing date and time. Before feeding your baby, warm the milk in lukewarm water, ensuring that the water does not cover the lid. Do not thaw or warm breast milk in hot water or the microwave, as this weakens the milk's infection-fighting properties and can cause hot pockets that burn your baby.
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How to pump, including speed and suction
Breast pumps are designed to mimic a baby's sucking action. There are two types of pumps: electric and manual. With a manual pump, you squeeze the plunger by hand, whereas an electric pump does this for you. There are also hand pumps, silicone pumps, and double electric pumps.
If you are in the hospital and need to pump, you will be provided with a hospital-grade pump. These are closed-system pumps, so they can be safely used by multiple women. These pumps typically have programmable settings and stronger suction than regular double electric pumps, which can help establish a good milk supply.
If you have your own pump, it's a good idea to bring it to the hospital so that you can start pumping as soon as possible after giving birth. This will help you develop and maintain a good milk supply. If you wait, it may be more difficult to develop your supply.
- Before pumping, wash your hands to keep germs from getting into your milk.
- Before and during pumping, gently massage your breasts to help milk flow. A warm compress can also help get your breasts ready for let-down.
- Center the nipple in the middle of the flange before starting the pump.
- Most electric pumps will begin with a let-down phase, featuring shorter, faster bursts of suction that mimic a baby's initial suckling.
- Don't default to the highest level of suction. Start at a low suction and increase it when the milk starts flowing.
- If you're trying to build up your milk supply, pump in between nursing sessions when you're with your baby.
- Aim to spend 15 to 20 minutes hooked up to the pump. Pump until the milk starts slowing down and your breasts feel well-drained.
- After pumping, separate the parts that came in contact with the milk and rinse them in cool water to remove milk protein. Wash the parts in warm soapy water and sterilize them daily.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not necessary to bring your pump to the hospital. If you don't bring your pump, the hospital will provide a hospital-grade pump that you can use during your stay. However, if you want to bring your own pump, you can.
You should start pumping whenever it makes sense for you. Some new moms begin pumping right after their baby is born, while others wait a few weeks or months. If your baby is in the NICU or is very sleepy after birth, you may want to start pumping right away to establish your milk supply.
In the first two weeks, it is recommended to pump every 2 to 3 hours during the day and at least once during the night. This is as often as your baby would breastfeed, about 8 to 10 times per day. If you are exclusively pumping, aim for 8 sessions in a 24-hour period, pumping for 15 minutes at a time.
It is important to clean your pump and pump kit after each use to prevent germs from getting into the milk. Separate the parts that come into contact with the milk and rinse them in cool water to remove milk protein. Then, wash the parts in warm soapy water and rinse them again in clear water. Finally, air-dry the parts on a clean towel.
There are several types of pumps available, including hand pumps, silicone pumps, double electric pumps, and hospital-grade pumps. Electric pumps are generally easier to use than manual pumps because they require less physical effort and can draw out milk faster. They also allow you to pump both breasts at once, which is a time-saver. However, manual pumps are small, inexpensive, and portable, making them a good option for occasional use.
