Three Simple Strategies to Pump Faster and More Efficiently
One of the first questions asked by new pumping moms is “How can I get more when I pump?” you quickly realize there is a difference between your production during pumping sessions. These three simple strategies will help you get more breastmilk in a session whether you are exclusively pumping, just building your stash or pumping at work.
Use a warm compress on your breasts before you start pumping.
This relaxes the tissues in your breast and allows for a quicker let-down of your breast milk. Use the compress 5-10 minutes before you are ready to start pumping. We prefer Bamboobies Boob Ease Soothing Therapy Pillows. They microwave quickly, are gel-free and they fit comfortably in your bra.
Use hand expression to express a little breastmilk before you attach the pump to you breast.
Continue to massage your breast while you are pumping. Check out book Go Milk Yourself: You Have Power. Express It! by The Milkin Mama Francie Webb for great information on how to hand express breastmilk. Even if you haven’t been able to hand express before, Francie works wonders!
Record a video of your baby getting ready to feed and watch it as you are getting ready to start pumping.
Especially if they are fussing! I was trying on a nursing bra in the dressing room at Target, while my infant daughter was sitting in her stroller. She saw my boobs and started crying to nurse and I immediately started leaking milk. (Had to buy that bra). Your baby’s cry is strategically designed to get your milk flowing!