This blog provides a step-by-step guide on how to effectively use a manual breast pump, including preparation, pumping techniques and tips for storage and maintenance. It also addresses common issues and how to overcome them for comfortable pumping.
Introduction
Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to nourish a newborn baby. However, there are times when a mother needs to express and store breast milk for various reasons, like returning to work or being away from the baby. A manual breast pump is a convenient option for expressing milk. While this is one of the important task, the mother needs to maintain her diet as well for the right nutrition to pass on to the baby.
This guide will help new mothers learn how to effectively use a manual breast pump. It provides a step-by-step demonstration of the pumping technique along with tips to ensure comfortable pumping. Proper milk storage methods and maintenance of the pump is also discussed. Common issues faced are addressed to help overcome them.
Preparation Required to Use a Manual Breast Pump
- Gather all the required items like the breast pump kit, bottles or containers to store the expressed milk, breast pads etc. and keep them nearby for easy access.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before pumping. Cleaning your breasts and surrounding area also helps ensure hygiene.
- Relax and make yourself comfortable in a quiet, private space where you will not be disturbed during pumping. Sit upright in a chair or lie back on a bed or sofa.
- Apply breast massage or warm compresses before pumping to stimulate milk flow. Gently massage your breasts towards the nipple.
- Ensure your breasts are empty by feeding your baby or pumping on the opposite breast first before pumping the other one. This stimulates the let-down reflex for maximum output.
- Attach the breast shield flanges to the pump horns or tubes. Apply breast cream or milk to the flanges and nipple area to reduce friction and ensure a good seal.
- Adjust the breast shield so that it is positioned correctly over your nipple and areola but is not too tight. You should be able to insert one finger in the flange space comfortably.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Manual Breast Pump
Here is the step by step guide - How to use a manual breast pump,
- Attach the breast shield flanges to the pump horns or tubes after preparing your breasts as mentioned above.
- Hold the breast pump unit in one hand with the flange over your breast and nipple at its center. Place your other hand under your breast to support it.
- Start pumping slowly by squeezing the pump handle/bulb gently but firmly. You will feel suction on your nipple and breast.
- Pump at a comfortable rhythm - squeeze and release the handle smoothly about once every second to mimic baby's suckling. Faster or harder pumping can be uncomfortable.
- You should start to see drops of milk collecting in the flange wells and tubes. Continue pumping until no more milk is flowing, usually 5-10 minutes per breast.
- To release suction, stop squeezing the handle and gently remove the pump flange from your breast by sliding it off to the side rather than pulling it straight off.
- Express the milk collected in the tubes/flanges directly into the storage bottle/container. Label it clearly with the date and time.
- Switch breasts and repeat the above steps to fully empty both breasts. Burp the baby or massage your breasts, if needed, between sides to boost the let-down.
- Clean all pump parts after each use as per manufacturer's instructions before storing them. Wash your hands again before handling the baby.
Tips for Effective and Comfortable Pumping
- Relax and think soothing thoughts while pumping. Stress can inhibit milk flow. Listen to calming music if needed.
- Gently massage your breasts or apply warm compresses before pumping to boost the let-down reflex.
- Ensure proper flange size fitting. Try different-sized inserts if leakage occurs.
- Maintain a steady, rhythmic pace while pumping, similar to a nursing baby's suckling pattern.
- Pump for at least 15-20 minutes per session or until milk flow stops to fully empty breasts.
- Burp the baby or hand express after pumping if breasts still feel full to maximise output.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration can reduce milk supply.
- Pump regularly, including overnight or early morning to establish and maintain supply.
- Visualise milk flowing while pumping to mentally boost the let-down reflex.
- Be patient, as it may take 15-20 minutes for full milk ejection in the beginning. It gets faster with practice.
- Use cooling or warming gel packs on breasts before or during pumping if desired for added comfort.
How to Store Breast Milk?
- Store milk in clean, BPA-free bottles or storage bags meant for breast milk. Avoid regular plastic containers.
- Label each container clearly with the date and time expressed. Use the oldest milk first based on the dates.
- Refrigerate milk at the back of the fridge where the temperature is most consistent, at 39°F or below.
- Freshly pumped milk can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days. Freeze milk beyond that duration for longer storage.
- For freezing, divide milk into portions in bottles or bags suitable for one feeding (2-4 oz). This prevents wastage if the baby does not finish a whole bottle.
- Freeze milk flat on a tray and then transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers once solid. This prevents clumping.
- Breast milk can be stored in the freezer for 3-6 months. Check for signs of spoilage like separation, discoloration or odor before using frozen milk.
- Thaw frozen milk overnight in the fridge or under cool running water and warm only the portion needed for a feeding, not the whole bottle. Avoid microwaving.
- Once thawed, milk can be stored in the fridge for 24 hours only before using.
How to Maintain a Manual Breast Pump?
- Clean all pump parts thoroughly after each use. Wash them with mild soap and warm water, rinse well and allow to air dry completely before storing.
- Check for any wear and tear in tubes, flanges or pump handles. Replace parts as needed according to manufacturer's recommendations.
- Lubricate rubber parts like tubes and valves regularly with breast milk or pump lubricant to keep them supple.
- Sterilize parts once a day if pumping and feeding expressed milk to the baby. Boil pump parts for 5 minutes or use steam sterilization as per instructions.
- Rinse all parts with water and allow to air dry after sterilizing to prevent mold or mildew growth.
- Store pump parts in a clean, dry place. Keep them covered when not in use to protect from dust.
- Wipe exterior plastic or metal surfaces with a damp cloth as needed to remove any milk residue.
- Replace pump kit or membranes as per manufacturer's timeline, usually every 3-6 months for hygiene.
- Check for cracks or leaks in tubing, flanges or pump handles. Contact customer care for replacements if required.
- Lubricate moving parts of the pump handle regularly to ensure smooth functioning.
Proper cleaning, drying and storage can help maintain your manual breast pump for longer. Replace parts on time to avoid issues with suction or milk flow.
Overcome Common Issues One Faces When Using a Manual Breast Pump
- Pain/soreness - Make sure the breast shield size matches your breast size. Apply breast massage or warm compress before pumping to soften breasts. Take breaks if needed.
- If you are not getting enough milk, make sure you are fully relaxed while pumping. Try hand expressing first to get the milk flowing. Practice breast compression techniques. Pump for 15-20 minutes per session.
- Leaking milk - Check that the breast shield has a good seal all around. Tighten the flange size if needed. Apply breast pads to prevent leaks.
- Fatigue in hands - Take breaks as needed between pumping sessions. Try different hand positions, such as using both hands together or one at a time. Do gentle stretches.
- Slow letdown reflex - Try relaxing techniques like deep breathing. Massage your breasts as you pump. Think of your baby to stimulate letdown. Pump both breasts together.
- Blisters on hands - Make sure the pump parts are clean and lubricated properly. Wear gloves or moisturise your hands regularly. Loosen grip pressure on pump handles.
- Discomfort from flanges - Ensure proper flange size fitting. Apply breast milk or moisturiser to the flanges before attaching. Take breaks between pumping.
Buy Best Manual Breast Pump Born Babies
Buy a high-quality manual breast pump at Born Babies to express breast milk conveniently. Born Babies breast pumps are BPA-free and made of food-grade silicone. It's an essential product for nursing moms to use when away from their baby or to build up a stash of breast milk in the freezer. The pump comes with all necessary accessories like collection bottles and nipple caps.
To use the manual breast pump, wash your hands thoroughly before use. Attach the breast shield flange correctly onto the breast. Squeeze the handle slowly to express milk. Alternate breasts when one side starts producing less milk. Store expressed breast milk in the collection bottle in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze for later use. Using the breast pump correctly helps to continue breastfeeding smoothly.
Conclusion
Using a manual breast pump takes some practice but it allows nursing mothers to continue feeding their babies with expressed breast milk when apart. This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information on How to Use Manual Breast Pump effectively and comfortably.
From preparation steps to proper technique, milk storage methods and maintenance tips - following the guidance ensures new mothers get the most out of their manual pump. With regular use and following the best practices, any issues can be avoided to have a smooth pumping experience.
FAQs
1. How to get more milk with a manual pump?
Squeeze the breast pump handles more completely and frequently to get more milk with a manual pump.
2. Is manual breast pumping more effective?
Using your finger to massage the breast while pumping can help get more milk.
3. How can I use breast pump more effectively?
Pump for 15-20 minutes at the start of each feeding to fully empty the breasts when using a manual breast pump.
4. How long should I use a manual breast pump?
Switch breasts every few minutes and lean slightly forward while pumping to use a manual breast pump more effectively.
