When can you start pumping, expressing breastmilk? - What you need to know about expressing breastmilk

If you’re wondering when to start pumping breastmilk after your baby arrives, please know you don’t have to rush (or even do it at all). In the early weeks, your baby is the best “pump” there is! Frequent feeding helps your milk supply establish and gives you both time to transition after birth together. You might think about pumping if:

• Your baby can’t feed directly at the breast (for example, if they’re premature or sleepy) 

• You need to relieve fullness or wish store a little milk for later 

• You’re planning to be away for a feed

If you're considering pumping because you're struggling with breastfeeding, perhaps it's painful or baby struggles to latch on, please seek professional support promptly. It could be a very simple tweak to position and time to master attachment. Sometimes it's a sign of something else, for example Tongue Tie, and a lactation consultant is qualified to assess this. If your baby is unable to draw off milk at the breast then you will need to pump instead otherwise your supply will start to reduce and this could lead to the end of your breastfeeding journey. We know that mums who have to end their breastfeeding journey sooner than they hoped, are 50% more likely to experience postnatal depression.

• I have a list of breastfeeding support groups in and near Dorking, here

• You can also call the 24 hour National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212

• Find a lactation consultant near you here

When to start:

Most parents wait until around 4–6 weeks, when breastfeeding feels comfortable and milk supply has settled. It's really important to only start pumping after breastfeeding is established even if this takes a little longer.

Protecting your milk supply:

If you replace a feed with expressed milk or formula, try to pump at a similar time to keep your body getting the message to make milk. Skipping too many feeds without expressing can lower supply gradually.

And remember, pumping is optional. Plenty of parents never use one and that’s perfectly fine. It takes time and dedication to establish true combination feeding. If you're pumping in the hope to create time and space for rest or to do things without your baby then consider whether the extra work to create a stash of breastmilk is counter-productive. Could you find another way to get that time. What matters most is that your baby is fed, loved, and thriving.…

Whether you're expecting a baby or have your baby in your arms, if you would like my support to feel confident about breastfeeding, do get in touch to ask about my 121 Classes or Power Hours! I'd love to support you: rose@birthandmore.co.uk.

Rose

Pumping breastmilk isn't always easy so make sure it's right for you before you begin.