Help a Mama Out: Getting the Most Milk Out While Pumping
Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at 9:40PM ‘Help a Mama Out’ Topic of the Week: Tips for getting the most milk out while pumping
PJ's Bliss pump
Alison: Massaging the breasts! That’s the biggest helper for me. Also, leaning over a bit, as gravity can sometimes help.
Nova: Crank it up if you can tolerate it. If your pump has those little white membranes, change them once a month or so.
Sondra: Relax!
Melissa: Whenever I pump at work, I put a little coconut oil on the inside of the pump flanges. This way the inside is lubricated and my areola doesn’t chafe alongside of the plastic flanges.
Laura: If I need to increase volume, I get into a pumping boot camp and spend an hour pumping with 10 minute intervals and 10 minute breaks. Whenever I have a supply dip, this would bring it back within a day or so. Also, I’ve had great output when I watch a comedy where I am laughing out loud. And it never hurts to have my hubby give me a back massage just before pumping or during a break. Also, my supply is related to my water intake, so I make sure to drink a minimum of 100oz per day.
Jen: Pump the full 20 minutes. I always get a late let down of another ounce or so if I wait it out. Also, a hands-free bra is a lifesaver!
Pump Ease hands-free bra
Jennifer: A picture of my baby always helped when I was away from him. Focus on him and how much you love him.
Ann: Relax for sure! Lots of deep breathing and looking at photos of my sweet girl’s chubby cheeks.
Sarah: Staying hydrated (lots of water and coconut water) and pumping at the same times each day.
Stacy: Hands-on pumping (massage and compression), staying hydrated, and changing the cycle speed and angle of the flanges.
Veronica: Watching videos of my little one always made a big impact.
Lydia: Warm compresses, relaxed and comfortable, use the correct flange size and check the suction.
Pumpin' PalsAngelica: Pumpin Pals! Made pumping so much more comfortable!
Ria: Massaging my breasts while pumping almost doubled the amount I could get!
Carmen: Hands on pumping! See the Stanford pumping video about maximizing pumping.
Don't miss our Boob Group podcast episode about Maximizing Your Pumping Sessions!
