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Tagged with 'pump'

Pumping and Bottle Feeding

Boob Scoop: When a baby is getting a bottle of expressed breastmilk, it is encouraged that his mother pump at that same time to match her baby's demand. Oftentimes, the expressed breastmilk offered in the bottle is greater than the amount a baby would be receiving if he nursed. This increase in volume from the bottle can cause the baby to skip a feeding. A skipped feeding sends the body a message that the baby is feeding less which in turn may cause a mother's milk supply to dip.

Sharen Medrano, IBCLC (www.nycbreastfeeding.com)

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Pumping & Work

Boob Scoop: A great way to minimize the worry that comes with the thought of pumping and returning to work, is to do a practice run of what a work day will look like. A week or two before returning, pick a day when someone can watch your baby and schedule pumping sessions as if you were back at work. And of course it's okay if you never get a chance to do this: more important than squeezing in a practice run is to establish good milk supply during the weeks of maternity leave. Establishing good milk supply in the first 8 -12 weeks will play a key role in making the transition to work easier.

Sharen Medrano, IBCLC (www.nycbreastfeeding.com)

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Pumping & Oversupply

Boob Scoop: Mothers are often advised to pump after feedings in order to establish good milk supply. Although this may make sense for some, (because stimulation usually means more supply), pumping after every feed can actually can create an oversupply of breastmilk in many moms. An oversupply can make it very difficult for a baby to nurse (overflowing milk and breasts so engorged that nipples can flatten) and cause the mother to feel engorged and uncomfortable. Pumping after feedings may be advisable for some mothers but certainly not for all. It is always best to consult a Board Certified Lactation Consultant for concerns regarding milk supply.

Sharen Medrano, IBCLC (www.nycbreastfeeding.com)

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Double Pumping

Boob Scoop: Although it may seem more manageable to pump one breast at a time, double pumping tends to yield more milk since a mother's Prolactin levels are highest when both breasts are stimulated. Another way to boost your Prolactic level? Nurse your baby on one side while you pump the other breast. This tip is especially helpful for moms whose babies feed from one breast per feeding. The breastmilk accumulated from the pumped side can be saved to build an emergency stash in your freezer.

Sharen Medrano, IBCLC (www.nycbreastfeeding.com)

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