A guide to expressing breast milk for new mums

Newborn feeding can feel like a constant dance, and sometimes, a little extra milk goes a long way. Whether you're returning to work soon, want to build a backup stash, or simply crave some peace of mind, expressing breast milk is a superpower for new mums. This guide will turn you into an expressing pro, ensuring your baby has "breast milk on demand".

When is the right time to start expressing breastmilk?

Deciding when to express can feel overwhelming at first, but know that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Here are some frequent reasons why new mums might start expressing breast milk. Consider these questions to see if any resonate with your current situation:

Building a strong supply: In the early days (first few weeks), frequent pumping (think 8-12 times a day) can help kickstart a strong milk supply. This is especially helpful if your baby is sleepy or has latching difficulties in the beginning.

Heading back to work: If you plan to return to work and want your baby to continue benefiting from breast milk, pumping allows you to create a stash beforehand. 

Increasing milk supply: Regular pumping can gently tell your body to produce more breast milk. This can be a great option if your baby seems fussy after feeding.

Baby missing a feed: Even the best little eaters have off days. Expressing milk creates a comforting backup for times when your baby skips a feed.

Sharing the feeding journey: Sharing expressed milk lets dads, partners, grandparents, or caregivers participate in feeding time. This gives you a much-needed break, allows your baby to bond with others, and fosters a sense of teamwork in caring for your little one.

So, whether you're looking to build a supply, head back to work with peace of mind, or simply want to share the feeding experience, there's likely a perfect time for you to incorporate expressing into your routine. 

Pumping options 

Breast pumps come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you prefer a hands-on approach, a time-saving option, or something in between, there's a perfect pumping method for you. Here's the lowdown:

Hand expressing: This natural method requires no equipment and can be a great option for on-the-go situations or relieving engorgement.

Manual pumps: Manual breast pumps are great for travel or occasional expressing. They work by squeezing a lever to create suction, making them affordable and portable.

Electric pumps: For frequent pumping or a more hands-free experience, electric pumps are your best friend. They come in two styles:

* Single electric pumps: These efficient pumps express milk from one breast at a time, offering convenience and flexibility.

* Double electric pumps: The ultimate time-savers, double pumps express milk from both breasts simultaneously, maximising your output and minimising pumping time.

How to express milk?

Pumping sessions can be your own mini moment of self-care amidst the whirlwind of new motherhood. It's a chance to recharge and unwind while still providing precious nourishment for your little one. Here's how to express milk whilst getting a little time for yourself:

1. Find your zen: Seek a quiet, comfy spot that allows you to relax. Maybe it's your favourite chair with a soft blanket, or a dimly lit corner of the nursery.

2. Gather your crew: Assemble everything you need beforehand to avoid mid-pump scrambling. This includes your sterilised breast pump and container or milk storage bottle, a refreshing drink and a snack to keep your energy up, your phone or remote for entertainment, and if your baby isn't present, a sweet reminder like a photo, video, or even their cozy blanket.

3. Clean hands, clean start: Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap before expressing. This helps prevent any bacteria from transferring to your pump or breast milk.

4. Mimic baby: To encourage your milk flow, gently massage your breasts in a circular motion, focusing on the area around the nipple. This mimics the natural sensation of your baby feeding and can help trigger your milk letdown reflex.

Don't worry if it takes a little practice to find your pumping groove – that's totally normal! Just like your baby is learning to feed, you're learning a new skill too.

Tailoring your pumping schedule

Expressing breast milk can be a powerful tool to help milk supply and share feeding responsibilities. Here's a guide to strategically scheduling your pumping sessions based on specific goals:

Maintaining established supply: For mums with a well-established milk supply, expressing coincides with the baby's feeding schedule. This consistency mimics natural feeding patterns and signals the body to maintain current milk production levels.

Increasing milk supply: When aiming to increase milk supply, more frequent pumping sessions are key. Consider expressing every 2-3 hours during the daytime, with potentially longer stretches at night. This increased stimulation encourages the body to produce more milk.

Addressing engorgement: Experiencing uncomfortable fullness or nipple soreness? Expressing offers targeted relief. Opt for shorter and more frequent pumping sessions throughout the day to help relieve discomfort.

Facilitating shared feeding: Pre-expressed milk empowers partners or caregivers to feed the baby in your absence. Ideally, pump just before bedtime to create a fresh milk supply for the night. This timing also helps prevent engorgement while you get some well-deserved rest.

Remember, consistency is crucial, so find a pumping schedule that complements your and your baby's routine. By strategically tailoring your pumping sessions, you can optimise your milk supply and create a more flexible feeding experience.

Storing breastmilk safely

Storing breast milk safely preserves its precious nutrients for your baby. Here's a quick guide on how to store your expressed breastmilk: 

Containers: Use leak-proof, BPA-free breast milk storage bags or sterilised milk storage bottles. Label the storage bags or containers with the date and time of expression.

Storage: According to the Australian Breastfeeding Association, room temperature breast milk (-26C) can be stored for 6-8 hours. Fresh milk lasts up to 72 hrs in the back of the fridge. Frozen milk lasts up to 6 months in the back of the freezer at -20C or lower.

Thawing: Thaw in the fridge overnight or by submerging the sealed container in warm water.

Discarding: Use thawed milk within 24 hours and never refreeze it.

Remember to always discard any milk that seems "off" – it's better to be safe than sorry! Trust your instincts and never feed questionable milk to your baby.

Newborn feeding can be a whirlwind, but expressed milk offers flexibility and peace of mind. This guide equips you to become an expressing pro! So whether you're building a stash, troubleshooting supply, or simply craving a break, expressing milk is your superpower. Find your perfect match and explore our range of breast pumps & milk storage bags. Happy pumping!