Should we use a breast pump to breastfeed our baby? (Breast Pump) - Everything you need to know

When you become a new mother, there are many things that come to mind when it comes to breastfeeding your baby, right? It is a wonderful experience, but sometimes there are also small challenges. Imagine, you have to go to work, or you have to be away from your baby for a while for some work. Or some mothers want to increase the amount of milk they produce. This is when this device called a Breast Pump comes to our rescue. It removes breast milk from your breasts and collects it to give to your baby later. However, learning to use it is not an easy task at once. With a little patience and learning the right way, this will be a great convenience for you.

Why do we need a breast pump?

There are many reasons to use a breast pump. It's not necessary for every mother, but it can be very useful in some cases.

• If you have to be away from your baby: If you are traveling for work or other reasons, you can express breast milk and leave it with you. Then someone at home can feed the baby while you are away. This will also help to maintain your milk supply.
• Collect and store the milk: You can store the expressed milk in the fridge or freezer.
• Reduce discomfort caused by engorgement: Sometimes, when your breasts are engorged, they feel hard and painful. To reduce this discomfort, you can pump and remove some of the milk.
• If you have flat or inverted nipples: Some mothers have flat nipples, making it difficult for their baby to latch on properly. You can use a breast pump to pull the nipple out a little. Then the baby can latch on more easily.
• When the baby cannot breastfeed directly: Sometimes, if the baby is sick or is underweight, he may not be able to suck milk directly from the breast. In such cases, you can express milk and give it to the baby.
• Increase your milk supply: When you pump frequently, your brain gets a signal to produce more milk. So if you feel like you're not making enough milk, this is a good way to increase your milk supply.

What types of breast pumps are there?

There are many different types of breast pumps on the market. Each one works a little differently. Let's take a look at the main types.

Milk Collection Devices

These aren't exactly pumps. They're silicone devices that collect milk that flows from one breast while your baby is nursing. Some use a small amount of suction to draw out the milk. If you have an oversupply, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before using these.

How do I choose the right breast pump for me?

"What's the best breast pump?" you may be wondering. The simple answer is that there is no one "best" pump for everyone. It depends on your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Choose the one that suits you, and ask yourself these questions:

• How often do I expect to pump? (Several times a day? Once a week?)
• Where will I pump? (At home? At the office? While traveling?)
• Do I need to increase my milk supply? (If so, a slightly more powerful powered pump is better)
• Do I have less time to pump at a time? (If so, a double pump will save time)
• How is my budget? (Manual pump is cheaper, powered pump is more expensive)

Once you find the answers to these questions, you will know which one is right for you. It is best to talk to a lactation consultant or your family doctor about this.

What are the parts of a breast pump?

No matter what type of pump you buy, it usually has these parts.

• Breast Shield (Flange): This is the cone-shaped part that fits over your nipple and the area around it (areola). This is also called the flange . It is very important to choose the right size for this. If the size is wrong, you may experience reduced milk flow, sore nipples, and pain. Your nipple should move freely without being trapped inside the tube, with just enough room.
• Pump: This is the main part that creates a vacuum and draws the milk out.
• Milk Container: A bottle or bag that collects pumped milk. These can be reusable bottles or disposable bags.
• Control Panel: The part with buttons that control things like the speed and suction strength of the powered pump.
• Lever: The part of a manual pump that you squeeze with your hand.

Okay, now how do you use this?

It may feel a little strange when you first use it. But don't worry, you'll get used to it after a while. Here are the steps to follow.

1. Read the instruction manual: Don't skip this step to save time. It's important to know exactly how your pump works.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly: Wash your hands with soap and dry them with a clean paper towel.

3. Assemble the pump: Assemble the pump parts as shown in the instruction manual.

4. Find a comfortable place: If possible, choose a place where you can relax and be free from distractions. If using an electric pump, sit near a plug point.

5. Place the Breast Shield (Flange) on your breast: Position your nipple exactly in the center of the flange. It should not be pinched, hurt, or pulled. If it feels uncomfortable, you may need a different size flange.

6. Start pumping: If you have a powered pump, you will usually start by putting it in letdown/stimulation mode . This is done by giving your baby a quick, light suction to help him or her start to let down (let down). If you have a manual pump, you can adjust the speed yourself.

7. Continue pumping: Once your milk starts flowing, switch to expression mode . This mode uses a slightly firmer and deeper suction, similar to how a baby sucks while breastfeeding. Pump for as long as you can comfortably hold on and your milk is coming in, usually for about 10-15 minutes per breast.

8. Break the Vacuum Seal: When you're done pumping, don't immediately remove the flange. Break the seal by gently placing your finger between your breast and the flange.

9. Unwrap the milk bottle: Unwrap the bottle or bag containing the milk, write the date and time on it, and label it. Then put it in the fridge or freezer. If you are sending your baby to daycare, write the baby's name on it as well.

How to keep your breast pump clean? This is very important!

For your baby's safety, it is essential to clean the pump after each use. The pump's instruction manual will explain the correct way to clean it.

If you usually wash by hand, do this:

• Immediately after pumping, wash all parts that came into contact with milk with cold water.
• Then, put some hot water and dishwashing liquid in a separate bowl and wash the parts thoroughly.
• Rinse thoroughly with hot water for about 10-15 seconds to remove the soap.
• Dry with a clean paper towel, or place on a clean, dry rack to air dry. Do not wipe with a regular kitchen cloth , as this can introduce germs.

Sanitizing the pump

In addition to washing, it's a good idea to disinfect the pump parts at least once a day. This is a safety measure that goes beyond washing with soap and water. Especially for your baby,

• If under 2 months old
• If a baby is born prematurely (born early)
• If you have a compromised immune system, this is definitely a must.

You can do this by steaming in the microwave or boiling water, as the instructions say. Remember, you must wash the parts as mentioned above before sterilizing.

What is the best time to start pumping milk?

You can start pumping as soon as your baby is born. However, it is best to wait until your baby is comfortable drinking directly from the breast before giving your baby expressed milk from a bottle. This usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks.

If you introduce your baby to a bottle too early, some babies may get confused between breastfeeding and bottle feeding. We call this "nipple confusion." Your baby may not want to breastfeed or latch on properly. So, talk to your doctor about the best time to start bottle feeding.

Can I share a breast pump with others?

This is something to think about carefully. There are two types of pumps.

1. Single-use: Most pumps you buy in the store are of this type. They are designed to be used by one mother only. Never share them with friends or family members. The reason is that milk is a bodily fluid. Small particles of milk that get into the pump motor can spread germs.

2. Multiple-use: These are very powerful, expensive pumps, usually found in hospitals. They can be rented. These pumps have a barrier between the motor and the parts that come into contact with the milk, so germs don't spread from one person to another. However, even with this pump, you will have to buy a new set of milk collection kits (flange, bottles, tubes) for yourself.

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