Northside Hospital - Special Beginnings

PUMPING TIPS • Get into a comfortable position. • Relax with soft music and slow breathing. • Pump at the baby’s bedside or gaze at a photo of your baby. • Apply warmth to the breasts 5 minutes before pumping. • Massage the breasts before and during pumping. • Use a double electric breast pump. • Pump at least one time between 10 p.m. – 3 a.m. This is when milk making hormones are highest. • A good time to pump is when you are with your baby. • Pump at least 8 times a day, 10 times if you have multiples. • Removing milk at regular intervals will help you make more milk. • Keep a log of 24 hour pumping totals.

Nipple care: If your nipples become tender in the first few days of pumping, please tell your nurse or lactation consultant. Tips: • After pumping gently rub your milk on the nipples. • Let your nipple air dry. • If you feel that you need an ointment, contact your health care professional. • If you see rubbing or skin breakdown

around the nipple you may need a different size shield. Ask your lactation consultant.

There can be variations in amounts expressed during each pumping. Don’t get discouraged, instead continue consistent pumping.

28 Special Beginnings in the Special Care Nurseries