Top Tips for Combining Breastfeeding and Pumping
Use the following tips to help you make the most of your pumping sessions without interfering with those special skin-to-skin feedings.
1. Establish a consistent schedule
Set a regular schedule for breastfeeding and pumping sessions. Consistency helps your body adjust to the demand for milk and ensures your baby receives regular feedings. Newborns usually feed every 2-3 hours. It is good to start with adding one pumping session per day, and when your milk supply increases, you can add another 2-3 pumping sessions to your day.
It is usually advisable to leave one hour in between feedings, but if you want to increase your milk supply, you may want to consider pumping straight after breastfeeding, which sends your body cues that more milk is needed to keep your baby nourished.
Most mums will notice that their milk supply is the highest overnight and in the morning.
By pumping early in the morning, you will be able to take advantage of the hours when you have a high milk supply and collect the extra milk.
2. Use an electric breast pump
Investing in a high-quality electric breast pump can save you time and make pumping more efficient. Electric breast pumps draw milk out faster and allow you to save precious time in-between feedings. Lola&Lykke Smart Breast Pump has been chosen as the best electric breast pump in the UK for 3 years in a row.
3. Breastfeed on demand
Let’s face it, all babies are different, and some may want to feed much more frequently than others. Responding to your baby's cues and breastfeeding on demand ensures they receive the necessary nutrition. Although you may want to stick to a rigid feeding schedule, follow your baby´s cues on when to feed.
4. Drain each breast completely
Milk production is driven by supply and demand, so you want to signal to your body that your breasts are empty (or as close as possible to it) and need more milk.
5. Take care of your well-being
You can’t pour from an empty cup, Mama! Literally and figuratively. A rested, well-hydrated mother who gets enough sleep is much more likely to be a breast milk-making machine.
6. Seek support
Reach out to a lactation consultant or join support groups to connect with other parents who have experience with combining breastfeeding and pumping. Their guidance and shared experiences can provide valuable insights and encouragement.
Lola&Lykke is an award-winning Finnish maternity brand, proudly female-founded we are helping mothers have a happier and healthier transition into motherhood. Lola&Lykke are passionate about making maternal care and breastfeeding support available to all. Our holistic support model helps mums with innovative health products, community-based support, 24/7 expert advice and a range of digital health tools.
Tips to Maximise Milk Production
One of the most frustrating challenges a breastfeeding mother can experience is a low breast milk supply. Unless you are pumping, it is impossible to know how much milk your breasts are making.
So you may wonder, Am I even making enough milk? If you determine you do have a low supply, you will want to know how to increase your milk supply. In fact, a lot of women need help boosting their breast milk supply from time to time. So, here’s the scoop on how to boost milk production.
1. Nurse and pump frequently
The more often you nurse and pump, the more signals your body receives to produce milk. Aim for at least eight to twelve breastfeeding and pumping sessions in a 24-hour period.
2. Drain each breast completely
Milk production is driven by supply and demand, so you want to signal to your body that your breasts are empty (or as close as possible to it) and need more milk.
3. Stay hydrated and eat well
Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for maintaining milk supply. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consume a balanced diet that includes foods rich in nutrients beneficial for lactation, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
4. Add frequent pumping sessions to your day
Pumping in between feedings can help stimulate more milk production. Many women swear by “power pumping”, which involves pumping on and off for about an hour a day. This mimics cluster feeding.
5. Avoiding formula
When you’re worried you aren’t feeding your baby enough, you’ll do whatever it takes to nourish them - including adding formula to supplement your baby’s diet. However, this could have the opposite effect. The less breast milk baby gets, the less your body will likely produce it. The exception, of course, is if your doctor recommended supplementing this way.
6. Massage your breasts
Gentle breast massage before and during pumping can help stimulate milk flow. Use circular motions and light pressure to promote milk letdown.
7. Try skin-to-skin contact
Skin-to-skin contact with your baby triggers the release of hormones that stimulate milk production. Engaging in regular skin-to-skin sessions can help enhance milk supply.
8. Choose your breast pump wisely
The right pumping equipment is important for maintaining your pumping practice and will help to boost your milk supply. Visit our helpful guide that allows you to choose which pump is right for you. Conversely, an uncomfortable pump could cause you to throw in the towel early if the discomfort is too distracting. If you’re not sure which breast pump is right for you, get in touch with the Lola&Lykke lactation experts.
Overcoming Challenges and Common Concerns
While combining breastfeeding and pumping can be beneficial, it's important to acknowledge that challenges may arise. Here are some common concerns and tips to overcome them:
1. Finding a balance
Balancing breastfeeding and pumping can be challenging, especially when you have other responsibilities. Prioritizing self-care, and seeking support from your partner or family can help create a balance that works for you.
2. Managing time
Breastfeeding and pumping require time and dedication. Use time-saving techniques like double pumping, hands-on pumping, and incorporating pumping sessions into your baby's feeding routine to make the most efficient use of your time.
3. Dealing with supply issues
If you're facing challenges with milk supply, consult a lactation consultant to determine the underlying causes and develop a plan to address them. Power pumping, eating lactation-boosting foods, and staying hydrated can help improve supply.
4. Maintaining motivation
Breastfeeding and pumping can be physically and emotionally draining. Stay motivated by seeking help and encouragement, and remember that feeding your baby can feel like a full-time job to begin with.