110. Feeding Baby

Breast milk can be expressed (removed from your breast) by hand or by using a breast pump. You may need to express your milk for several reasons

You may need to express your milk to:

• Provide breastmilk if your baby is not able to latch
• Soften your breasts before breastfeeding (if your breasts are full or engorged)
• Provide breastmilk for your sick or preterm baby
• Provide breastmilk if you are away from your baby
• Make your breasts more comfortable and maintain your milk supply if you are not able to breastfeed

You will find it easier to express your milk after:

• Your baby has breastfed
• Using warm moist heat on your breasts (shower, towels, or facecloths)
• Using breast massage
• You have touched or cuddled your baby
• The morning feeding when you have more milk

At first you may not be able to express any milk or very little milk. This is normal. As you become more comfortable with hand expression or using a breast pump, your milk will flow more easily. After a few days your milk supply will increase. Amounts vary with each pumping.

Breast massage before expressing milk may help you remove more milk.

• Always handle your breasts gently. Rough handling may damage delicate breast tissue
• Massage your breasts in small circular motions toward your nipple
• Stroke your breasts very gently toward the nipple
• Lean forward and let gravity help the milk flow

Hand expression is a learned skill that you may need to practice. It may be easier to practice in the tub or shower or after breastfeeding your baby.

• Wash your hands
• Position your hand as shown
• Push in towards your chest and gently squeeze your thumb and fingers together, rolling them forward. Continue this rolling action until your milk flows
• Repeat this step rotating your hand around your breast until your milk flow decreases and your breast feels soft.
• Repeat with your other breast

Breast pumps may be used instead of hand expression. There are different types of breast pumps available.

• Manual, battery-operated and small electric pumps are for occasional breast pumping once your milk supply is established
• Rental breast pumps are advised for a mother who is unable to breastfeed for a period of time

Do not buy a breast pump before you have your baby. If you do need a breast pump later, ask a health care professional who is knowledgeable about breastfeeding for more information about a pump for your specific situation. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and cleaning.