I've Got Beef with Breast Pumps

Image Source: https://www.whattoexpect.com

Making the decision to pump your breastmilk can be a great one. Pumping allows you to build up a supply of frozen milk that can be used later, and also means that your partner can help in the feeding process. However, pumping can be loud, slightly painful and time consuming.

On top of that, I have major issues with the way that moms are educated about pumping and how to obtain a breast pump in general. There is VERY little support out there for moms that pump including how to decide on a breast pump, obtain one through insurance and how to use the contraption when you actually get it.

You would be shocked to learn that breast pumps come with ZERO INSTRUCTIONS about how to actually use them in a routine. It's basically, here's the pump, here are the names of a few buttons....GOOD LUCK! Thank goodness for my good friends Kristin and Katie N. who all coached me through how to use my pump. However, when I asked them how they learned about their routines the common answer was "word of mouth through friends."

For something that is so important (feeding a newborn!) I cannot believe there is so little info provided to new moms. As a way to hopefully provide some insights into the pumping process, I have provided some information below that I hope is helpful to new moms and anyone else trying to figure out these ridiculous contraptions!

1. Most insurance companies cover breast pumps.

When you get closer to your due date (about 2-3 months before birth) call your insurance company to discuss how you can get a breast pump that is covered. Many insurance companies will give you the names of websites that accept your insurance and allow you to browse through options, and order a pump easily through the site by entering in your insurance info. Do some research online before you order your pump. Talk to friends and decide which you think is best for your lifestyle. There are several pros and cons to different pumps.

2. Why I chose the Spectra 2

The most popular pumps are those made by Spectra and Medela. There are many more companies out there though, it just depends on what your insurance covers. There are some really fancy pumps that are wireless and look amazing, but they are not typically covered by insurance. Here is a helpful website that can help you review the different pros and cons of each pump: What to Expect. Personally, I chose the Spectra 2 because it was very quiet, offered backflow protector tubes (basically these tubes ensure that breastmilk doesn't leak back into the device and never need to be replaced), and was compatible with multiple baby bottles (avent, spectra etc...).

3. Make sure you have the correct size flanges

Flanges are the part of the pump that covers your breast and will help suction to get the milk out. All breasts are shaped differently, and can be various sizes. For example, it's incredibly common for one breast to be larger or smaller than the other. You might not notice this until you are using a breast pump! Therefore, the flanges that come with the breast pump (one 24cm and one 28cm with the Spectra 2) might not fit you perfectly. If the flanges don't fit your breasts correctly, the plastic will rub against the nipple and cut the flesh and/or cause irritation. The flange fits correctly when the areola and nipple fit comfortably in between the round opening of the flange and don't rub against any part of the flange. You can order different sized flanges here: Flanges. It's very helpful to have at least two sets of flanges so that you have an extra pair when one is being washed or sanitized.

4. Wash your breast pump parts after each use

People who have not pumped before do not understand the commitment. It's not just sitting for multiple hours a day and pumping milk. It's also constantly sanitizing the parts in preparation for your next pumping session. I have two suggestions to help manage this process. First, if you are saving your household a ton of money by breastfeeding/pumping, your partner can help out in washing/sanitizing your breastpump parts. My husband Danny agreed and was amazing about sanitizing all of my parts and helping me get ready for the next session. Second, use these Medela Quick Clean Steam Bags to quickly cleanse your pumping parts without going crazy, This helped us keep everything clean without feeling overwhelmed by constant hand washing each item.

5. Sample routine

If you use the Spectra, I have a simple routine that I used to help me get the most breastmilk out. Remember, everyone's routine might be different but I found these helpful when I was getting started!

Image Source: https://pumpingmamas.com/spectra-s1-s2-pump-guide/

Simple Routine

1. Turn on the pump by pressing the pink button in the middle.

2. Start in Let Down Mode with cycle 70 for 2-4 minutes (however long it takes before you feel the *let down happen).

3. After milk starts flowing, switch to Expression Mode (Vacuum Button) in cycle 54.

4. Continue pumping for 15 to 25 minutes until empty.

*A let down is when milk really starts flowing from the breast. It can take a few minutes to feel a letdown (it's a very hard thing to describe because everyone's feels different). Some people say it feels like pins and needles, a tingling or burning sensation, and/or a feeling of fullness being released. Not all women feel a let down when they breastfeed or pump, while other women will have a strong let down.

6. Not everything you need will come with the pump

There were so many additional pumping items I needed to make it a comfortable experience. I have listed below the essentials that I needed for pumping to work. They are all worth investing in....IMO.

• Multiple hands-free nursing bras (these were my favorite: MomCozy, Pacasso, Rumina)

• External battery pack (otherwise you are chained to a wall every time you want to pump)

• Lansinoh Bags (pump directly into these when you want to build a milk supply. So much easier than pumping into bottles and pouring them into bags and saves time.)

• Different size pump flanges

• Medela Quick Clean Steam Bags

Did I miss any pumping tips above? Do you have a routine that worked well for you that you can share? Add in the comments below!