Exclusively Pumping Must Haves
CONGRATULATIONS… to you as you embark on this journey to provide breastmilk for your little one. No matter the reasons know that you are AMAZING for choosing to do this act of love for your little loved one. Reasons why we choose to pump don’t make this choice any less AMAZING. Whether your reason include ties, trauma, in memory of, NICU stays or whatever those personal reasons may be, just know that you have a strong network of people in your corner willing and ready to support you along the way, however long the journey may last. And can I just reiterate how AMAZING YOU ARE!
When some people (my opinion) think of nursing or breastfeeding, pumping is not given its flowers. It is instead met with negativity and like its second class when it comes to how one is supposed to provide for their baby. Honestly, the idea for this blog came to me while watching a YouTube video of a new mom recalling her labor and delivery. And during that video, for a good little while (maybe 3-5mins) she went on a negative rant about what a hassle pumping was and that she was glad her baby was now latching with the help of a lactation specialist. And it wasn’t the sarcastic rant that we in the community have come to know and love. But more so a little offensive and made you almost feel bad… key word almost.
So, I thought as a mom who exclusively pumps for her little loved ones, I would give a little insight on the subject that I myself am learning new things about daily.
First, I want to acknowledge that the first few hours, weeks, months even years on this journey can be EXHAUSTING. And that is ok. In the very beginning trying to mimic the feeding schedule of a newborn seems daunting. That first few weeks of pumping every 2-3 hours seems relentless.
You pump for 15-20 mins and then store the milk, clean up and finally pass out only to be woken up again in what seems like 5 mins but could have been 1hr. And then for those that have a new pumpling who may be cluster feeding or somehow ended up eating opposite of your pump schedule, you may feel as though your eyes have never closed.
I am here to say YOU WILL GET THROUGH THAT PHASE. Not saying it gets easier, but I am saying you will get into a groove or routine that makes cat napping just what you need. And then one day you will look up and be 7months post-partum sleeping through the night and pumping every 4-5 hours during the day. #WINNING
Here is a list of a few things that made this journey so much easier for me. And a few things I wish I had the first and second time around on my breastfeeding journey.
- Electric breast pump: Thankfully now most if not all insurance companies offer at the very least partial coverage for a breast pump with each pregnancy. There are tons of companies out there that offer a variety of pumps and accessories. Companies like Baby pavilion , Aeroflow, and The Breastfeeding Shop just to name a few. Having the right pump and accessories: flanges, duckbills, backflow protectors, tubing, etc. are all important. And for exclusive pumpers changing them out is equally important to promote a healthy milk supply. Using the correct size flanges is KEY. Many subject matter experts (SME) in the field can measure you or you can measure yourself using tools found with a simple google search. SME include Doulas, Lactation Counselors and Lactation Consultants to name a few.
- Storage bags: There are tons and tons and tons of storage option when it comes to organizing your milk. Whether you are a just “enougher” and you store solely in your refrigerator or are an over supplier with a deep freezer and second standalone freezer on top of the freezer attached to your fridge; There are multiple ways to store your milk. Some use the pitcher method, glass mason jars, silicone bags or regular single use storage bags. No way is right or wrong, chose the option that works best for you. I personally went with the Kiinde system and I LOVE LOVE IT. Pro-tip I use the bags for transitioning to solids and it comes with a spoon and straw and other accessories. I have nothing but good things to say.
- Nipple cream: Nipples can become raw and sore. They can crack and bleed. Its no fun. Thankfully there are products out there to help provide comfort during this season of discomfort. Many use coconut oil as a lubricant for pumping while others use the over-the-counter cream made by medela or lansinoh. Both companies make other accessories like nipple shields and hydrogel to promote healing.
- Nursing pads: Are a must have. I wish I had known about these earlier in my journey, but I know now and so do you. These come in reusable form and disposables. The MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER ABOUT NURSING PADS…. IS TO CHANGE THEM REGULARLY!!! I say this from a place of experience. Let your nipples breathe please. Trust me, Thrush is not something I would wish on my worst enemy. If the thought of wasting that precious liquid gold just doesn’t sit right with you, maybe a “milk collector” would be a better fit. These fit right in your bra and collect any leakage for you to use later. **Pro-tip** if using for feeding empty often to preserve the milk. Otherwise, you can use this milk for baths, to make lotions, or creams etc.
- Nursing/Pumping Bra: Ever heard of the nursing bra hack when it comes to pumping. If the price of a pumping bra is ridiculous to you, trust you are not alone. My first time EC’ing I was not spending that type of money. (Wish I had, this time around I live in them lol.) I pumped for 15months using the nursing bra hack. A good comfortable bra is an absolute must. And whether you have a simple nursing bra, pumping bra or the combination bra, either will get the job done. Kindred Bravely and Motherhood Maternity are two of my favorites brands.
Nice to haves…
1. Pump bag (fits a pump, bottles, ice pack and items needed for work)
2. Cleaning supplies (wipes, sanitizing spray, no scrub soap etc)
3. Cover/ Clothes (nursing/pumping clothes- bra shirts/sweaters)
4. Milk cooler for storage and on the go milk/bottle warmer
5. Car charger/ Extra batteries
6. Breast pump cushions (Your nipples will thank you)
7. Access to a Lactation specialist: most insurances cover a few visits and many places offer support groups either at the hospitals, birth centers, WIC offices etc.
I personally think this is a MUST HAVE but I did make it my first time around EP’ing without access to Lactation outside of the 3days I spent in the hospital after giving birth. But this time, I have utilized my insurance covered visits, community support groups and the amazing facebook groups. Facebook has pump specific groups for example spectra and medela and inclusive ones that offer support and education. And don’t count out Youtube. There are so many pump reviews and valuable information out there.
Hope you enjoyed the read and were able to take away some valuable information to use on your #feedingjourney. Subscribe to the everyday favors newsletter to stay up to date on new post.