The technique of expressing breast milk by hand - tips for a young mother
The question of expressing breast milk in a bottle after feeding is relevant today. Some experts are convinced of the necessity of this process, some are against it.
In what cases is it recommended to express milk:
- with strong filling of the chest;
- to support lactation when the baby refuses food or is weaned for good reasons;
- to increase milk production;
- in cases of milk stagnation (correct expression of breast milk during lactostasis will help prevent inflammation of the mammary glands - mastitis);
- to support lactation.
In all other situations, pumping is not necessary. If the child is gaining weight well, is active, eats with appetite, the procedure can only harm. Pediatricians advise putting the baby to the chest at his request. Three-hour breaks between feedings are unacceptable.
Technique of expressing breast milk by hand
The woman herself chooses the method of pumping. Doctors recommend following some rules.
It is not possible to express milk immediately after childbirth, only after 5-7 days. Doctors do not recommend expressing milk after nine in the evening. You should not squeeze the milk to the last drop and carry out the procedure more than three times a day. The best solution is to alternate between natural feeding and bottle feeding.
Before pumping, it is recommended to drink a glass of warm herbal tea, do a light massage of the mammary glands, apply a warm towel or take a shower. All this will help the woman relax and express milk as effectively as possible.
What should not be done: roughly press the breast or nipple. The procedure should not cause pain in any case.
A breastfeeding consultant will help you master the technique of the procedure. The doctor will also tell you how to properly store breast milk after pumping. Correct execution will prevent many problems, including inflammation of the mammary glands.
Rules for expressing breast milk with a breast pump
Given the large selection of breast pumps, you should consult your doctor and carefully read the instructions before buying. Pay attention to current additions: milk storage containers, thermal bags with cooling gel, etc.
Rules for expressing breast milk with a breast pump:
- drink a glass of warm tea;
- take a comfortable position - sitting, slightly leaning forward;
- while holding the breast, place the funnel of the breast pump against the nipple;
- start to lightly squeeze the piston (follow the instructions when using an electric breast pump);
- the average duration of the procedure is 10 minutes.
On our website https://dobrobut.com/ you will find more information. If you need a consultation, fill out a special form. During the personal appointment, the doctor will talk about the features of manual colostrum pumping and answer all questions.
Squeezing by hand
The advantages of this method are the absence of pain and financial savings. Disadvantages - duration, small amount of milk.
Technique of expressing breast milk by hand:
- cover the areola with the thumb, others - under the breast;
- with the thumb, make several wave-like movements from the areola up and down;
- lightly pressing on the breast, achieve the first drops of milk;
- if the pumping is done correctly, after the first drops, a trickle will come out;
- breasts are "pumped" for no more than 5 minutes each.
If your breasts hurt after pumping, consult a specialist. A lactation consultant can answer questions about pumping.
How much milk should there be when pumping? On average, about 100 ml. Before feeding the baby, the amount is much larger. After feeding - up to 5 ml.
How to store milk
Expressed milk can be stored in baby food jars, special bags (sold at pharmacies), sterile bottles. At room temperature, milk can be stored for no more than 4 hours, and in the refrigerator - up to three days. Freezing breast milk is recommended in some cases. The storage period is three months.
Expressing is a procedure that will help maintain breastfeeding of the baby and will be a good prevention of inflammation of the mammary glands. If you have questions and need the help of a specialist, use the phone or ask a question online. Can the temperature rise after expressing milk, which method is better and what can harm the expression - the doctor will tell you about this during the consultation.
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Breastfeeding, its role in a child's life
Pediatrician appointment
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