How to Use a Breast Pump

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The question of "How to use a Breast Pump" cannot be answer in the form of a few detailed steps.

With the large number of different manufactures and models on the market this would not be practical, and any information would be largely inaccurate. Instead we have chosen to put together a guide that is non-product specific.

Getting Started

Some preparation is recommended before you actually begin using the breast pump. Set up the area first - you movement is going to be restricted once you begin so try to have anything you might need in reach. Now go and wash your hands.

A successful session is all about achieving "let-down" and there are a number of things that you can do to help encourage this. We suggest laying a warm compress on and around the areola, follow this with a gentle massage - you may want to try and alternating between the two. Ideally you want to completely relax, since the more you relax the more milk you are likely to express.

Taking Action

This is the part that many mothers look for when they ask the question " How to use a breast pump ?" Whatever model you may have, whether it is an Avent, a Medelaor a Gerber pump, take your time reading the instructions. Some kits require self assembly (manual pumps in particular) so make sure you pay the assembly instructions particular attention.

A dome shaped funnel, sometimes known as a breast funnel or breast flange, is centered over nipple. Once this is attached you can start your machine. Ideally the sensation should closely mimic the sensation of a nursing infant. To accommodate this most models have an adjustable suction setting, which should always be set on low to begin with.

How long should the session go on for? It has been recommended that women don't go for longer than 20 minutes per breast. Ideally what you want to do is swap between your breasts as soon as the milk flow from the one begins to decrease - as a rough guide you are looking at about every 5 minutes.

The Aftercare

In the interest of your and your baby's health you should thoroughly clean the pump and all its attachments. A large number of models today are dishwasher safe, but you should always check and never make assumptions.

Milk can also be stored in the freezer, provided it is housed in suitable container or bag . Please note : Not any old bag will do - Milk freezer bags are specially designed to ensure the milk remains uncontaminated. Once frozen, the milk can be used up to six months later, but once defrosted it should be used within twenty four hours.

Never defrost using the microwave as this alters the milks composition, instead leave overnight in the fridge or run the container under a cool tap.

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