07/04/2023
Mothers are amazing.
It doesn’t matter how many mums I see, I’m still amazed by each & every one of you 💕
For those of you who have had to do some expressing from time to time, or full time expressing - you will understand how insanely challenging/time consuming/soul destroying it can feel.
A few tips if you need to express your milk for your baby:
❣️Get yourself a good quality hospital grade pump (hire, borrow, purchase), do some online research to see what the best fit is for you
❣️ Make sure the expressing shields are the correct fit & size for you. This can impact on your production, not to mention comfort levels
❣️Get yourself a hands free pumping bra (or make one)
❣️Gentle hand massage/stroking during pumping increases oxytocin levels
❣️ If you are expressing more than 6 times/day, you do not need to wash the equipment after each use! 🤯 (just give them a quick rinse after use, put them in a clean container, store in the fridge & wash with warm soapy water once/day).
❣️ Have everything you need within arms distance, large drink bottle, phone & charger, nutritious snacks
❣️ A little bouncer or bassinet in front of you, if you need to entertain a baby whilst pumping - or on your lap (as pictured)
❣️ Meal prep throughout the day, get groceries delivered, friends bringing you meals - whatever you can do to make things as simple as possible (always have snacks as you will be hungry, oh so hungry)
❣️It is hard work, please ask for help as much and as often as you need
Every single drop of your amazing milk has so many benefits for your baby, so don’t let that slip your mind when you’re pumping at 2am. If you’re struggling, then please reach out to an IBCLC.
Credit to my amazing twin mum 💕 I am simply in awe of her strength.
Any other tips for expressing mums?
Xx