Breast pumping is a great way to maintain your milk supply during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It helps you to avoid supplementing your baby with formula. You can use a breast pump at work to keep your milk production up.
Exclusive breastfeeding is free
There are many benefits to exclusive breastfeeding, but not everyone is ready for the commitment and financial outlay that goes along with it. Fortunately, exclusive pumping offers an alternative to exclusive breastfeeding and allows parents to provide their baby with human milk at their beck and call.
Exclusive pumping does require a lot of time and effort. Some moms have jobs that require frequent overnights, while others have health problems that prevent them from producing enough milk for their babies. Ultimately, it all comes down to what’s best for the baby.
While at it, think about investing in a high-quality breast pump from Cradle Me Baby. These are more expensive than the typical milk bottle, but you may use them to provide your child with a steady supply.
Pumping at work helps maintain milk production
A pump while at work is a great idea to maintain your milk production. You can pump after every feeding or even before your baby eats. But the most important thing is to stay hydrated and healthy, which will help you produce more milk.
Finding a good breast pump is the best way to boost your output if you’re still nursing. Many insurance providers cover the cost of renting a pump, and Medicaid may even wrap it for you. In addition, a few insurers will cover the rental of durable medical equipment, like a breast pump, if you rent it from a preferred provider.
It’s also a good idea to freeze some of your milk. It will allow you to make milk on the go or when you’re out of town.
Keeping the parts of your breast pump clean
If you use a breast pump, you know that keeping your pump parts clean is essential. If you don’t, you could expose your baby to dangerous germs.
Follow the guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for cleaning your pump parts. Depending on the manufacturer, you can clean your pump parts in the dishwasher or by hand. Follow CDC guidelines to protect your baby regardless of how you tend your pieces.
Some “hacks” recommend leaving your breast pump parts in the refrigerator between pumping sessions. However, this can result in mold and bacteria formation. It’s best to store your breast pump parts in a sealed plastic bag or a resealable container. You can also use a cooler with gel packs or ice.
Avoiding supplementing feedings with infant formula
There are many reasons why parents may supplement with infant formula. Some of them are medical. It is best to talk to a health professional before you decide to start increasing. They might also suggest how long you should keep taking supplements.
For example, breastfeeding babies with jaundice will often need extra hydration. In this situation, a formula can help break up the feedings. It is one reason why hospitals have a system to distribute formula bottles. Nurses sign out the bottles.
Another common reason for supplementing is that the mother cannot produce enough milk for the baby. If a woman has been diagnosed with thyroid disease or other illnesses that interfere with her ability to produce milk, she might be recommended to supplement with infant formula. However, the decision to supplement with formula is a personal one.
Creating a pumping station for yourself and your baby
Breastfeeding is a rewarding experience, but it is also tricky. Following your baby’s schedule and ensuring you have the required milk can be challenging. The good news is that you can build a pumping station that is simple to use and will help you maintain your supply by following a few simple steps.
Determine your pumping requirements first. While a rechargeable battery can power some pumps, others need a continual power source. Consider using a wearable pump or a manual pump depending on the circumstance.
You’ll need a staging mat to set up your pumping kit. It will help keep your pump parts clean. Also, consider using hand sanitizer to wipe off your pump.
Create a pumping log to keep track of your day. There are apps available to do this for you.