Breastfeeding and Pumping: Managing the Transition With a Busy Schedule

Breastfeeding is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for good reason, as it provides healthy and nutritious food for babies at no cost. Breast milk helps protect fragile infants against diseases and can also reduce your risk of breast and ovarian cancer. However, breastfeeding poses a challenge if you have to return to work or other responsibilities while your baby is still nursing. Balancing breastfeeding and pumping can feel overwhelming, but these tips can help.

Combining Breastfeeding and Pumping

Balancing breastfeeding and pumping allows you to continue bonding with your baby while also providing flexibility in your feeding routine. Begin by establishing a solid breastfeeding routine with your baby and introduce pumping gradually. If you know you will be returning to work or school, start pumping a few weeks before the date you’re scheduled to return.

When you start pumping, aim for one to two pumping sessions per day. You may need to pump as often as your baby feeds, depending on how you split up breastfeeding and pumping sessions. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet and listen to your body's signals, adjusting your pumping schedule or technique as needed. Finding the right balance may take time, so be patient.

Read More: Breastfeeding on the Job: Tips for Pumping at Work

Pumping Basics

There are a few different ways to pump breast milk:

• Hand expression. This pumping technique involves using your hand to squeeze milk out of your breast. While it doesn’t require any additional equipment or cost, this method takes skill and coordination. It can be useful if you find yourself without a pump, but for moms who need to pump frequently throughout the day, hand expression may not be the best option.
• Manual pumps. Hand-operated pumps typically cost $50 or less. They are convenient if you’re concerned you won’t have access to an electrical outlet, and if you will only occasionally need to be away from your baby, a manual pump may be a suitable option. Additionally, keeping one of these pumps on hand can be beneficial in case of power outages, such as during hurricane season.
• Electric breast pumps. These pumps run on electricity or batteries and are generally the easiest of the three options to use. However, they’re also more expensive than the other two options, running from $150 to over $250. In some cases, your insurance provider may cover or reimburse the cost of an electric breast pump. Plus, some pumps can express milk from both breasts at once, which can save time.

There’s no one “best” pump, except the one that works best for your needs and schedule.

“If you won’t be away from home long or can breastfeed your baby during the workday, you may only need a manual pump or small electric pump,” says Anna Burns, breastfeeding specialist and occupational therapist at Beaufort Memorial HealthLink for Children. “If you will be away from your baby for eight hours or more, a double pump may be a better option.”

Read More: Benefits of Breastfeeding

When and How to Pump

Pumping breast milk takes practice, and it may take a while for you to settle into a schedule and routine that works for you and your baby — and those may change as your baby grows.

“You may need to pump less as your baby starts eating solid foods,” Burns says. “If your baby has trouble latching or is separated from you for a medical reason, you may need to pump exclusively to maintain or increase your milk supply.”

In general, you should estimate pumping as often as you would nurse your baby. This helps ensure that your body continues producing the amount of milk your baby needs. If you work an eight-hour shift, you should plan on at least three pumping sessions. However, some women may need to pump more frequently, while others may need to pump slightly less often. If you work a 12-hour shift, you may need to pump three to four times a day while you are apart from your baby.

With an electric breast pump, you can usually express your milk from one breast in about 15 minutes. If you are using a single-breast pump, your pumping sessions will likely run 30 minutes. A double pump can cut that time in half. A hands-free pumping bra allows you to multitask while pumping breast milk, such as working on your computer, reading a book or holding your baby.

Read More: Postpartum Depression: Self-Care Is Critical for the Mom and Her Baby

Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding and Pumping

It's completely normal to have questions when it comes to breastfeeding and pumping. Here’s a list of common questions mothers often have.

• Can I buy a used pump or borrow my friend’s old pump? We do not recommend reusing breast pumps. Even after cleaning, they can still contain viruses and bacteria that are harmful to your baby.
• How often do I need to clean my pump? You should wash your pump parts in hot, soapy water after each pumping session.
• How do I store pumped milk if I’m breastfeeding and pumping? You can keep freshly pumped milk at room temperature for up to four hours or in a cooler with an ice pack for up to 24 hours. Store pumped milk in clean, sterilized containers and label them with the date and time pumped. Refrigerated breast milk lasts up to four days. Frozen breast milk should ideally be used within six months, but it can be stored for up to a year.
• What if I’m having trouble pumping? Some women find that hand expression for one or two minutes will help get the milk flowing. Try adjusting the pump settings, ensuring proper flange fit and practicing relaxation techniques. Other women find thinking about their baby, looking at a picture or smelling something with their baby’s scent can help.

Call our 24/7 warm line for breastfeeding support from our team of lactation consultants at 843-522-5147 or register for a Breastfeeding Support Group session.