Breastfeeding

How do I pump?

Most women can easily express breast milk. Some women find hand pumping (expression of the breast) easy while some women prefer mechanical pumps. A high quality pump is efficient and not painful. Most women find it easiest to pump just after they have nursed the baby or when they are away from the baby. Some women can produce a little more milk if they pump after nursing.

Storing breast milk
Human milk can be kept at room temperature for a few hours, in the back of the refrigerator for five to seven days, in the coldest part of the freezer for up to six months and in a deep freezer for 12 months. Thaw by warming to room temperature in a bowl of warm tap water. Do not use a microwave or stove to thaw the milk. This can kill the living cells in the milk and can even burn your baby.

Do I need to supplement feedings?
Some women find they are not producing enough milk for the baby. If you find you must supplement, call your health care provider to best determine your baby's nutritional needs and compatibility. If your family has many allergies, your doctor or nurse practitioner can recommend the best formula for your baby.

Formula can be mixed with mother's milk to obtain the volume you might need for your baby. Water or diluted formula should not be used unless your health care provider orders this.

Costs of breastfeeding vs. formula vs. pumping
Breastfeeding is free. There is no cost of material, no time lost to prepare the milk and no cost for storage. Formula can cost $1200 to $1,500 for a year, depending on what kind you buy.

Prices of pumps vary, so you may want to shop around or rent one. A hand pump or mini-electric pump is a good option for occasional pumping. A mother who pumps every day for one to two feedings needs a hospital grade electric pump. For more information on breast pumps, call WELL/A Mother's Place, (203) 688-9355.

Breast pump rentals and sales
Breast pump rentals are available wherever you live. Call WELL/A Mother's Place, (203) 688-9355, for pump rentals and breastfeeding supplies. WELL's hours are Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - noon.

For questions about how to pump, call WELL/A Mother's Place at (203) 688-9355, the Medela hotline at 1 (800)-TELL-YOU.

Continue: Resources

Maternity Services home page

Last revised: May 31, 2007 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.