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5 Quick Tips for Pumping at Work

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Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

You’ve finally gotten into a sweet groove with breastfeeding and now it’s time to head back to the office. You can absolutely continue to breastfeed and maintain a healthy milk supply while away from your baby. It can seem overwhelming at first, but all you need are the right tools to help you get into a manageable routine. We know you can do it! We believe in you! 

Here are 5 quick tips to make pumping at work easier.

1) Make a Schedule 

Plan on pumping every 3-4 hours to maintain a healthy milk supply. Set those alarms and block off pumping time on your calendar to make sure you don’t go too long without pumping. Practice at home about a week before returning to work at the times you will be pumping. This will make you more comfortable and confident so you can smash your first day back! 

2) Have a backup plan 

Getting ready for work with a baby can take more time now than when you were flying solo. A checklist can help you make sure that you have everything you need when you leave the house. But even with a system, there’s a good chance that one day you’re going to be in a hurry and forget something crucial, like duckbill valves or your flanges. Keeping replacement parts at work can be a lifesaver. It’s also a good idea to have a handy manual pump in your car or office, just in case you forget your pump altogether. 

3) Go Hands-Free

If you’re pumping at work, getting a hands-free bra so that you can do other things besides holding your breast shields during the time you spend pumping can be a game-changer. It will also allow you to use Hands-on Pumping which can make pumping sessions more efficient. Skip the pumping bra and level up your pumping game with the Spectra Caracups. Pumping with the Spectra Caracups will make the whole process even easier AND discreet if you need to be on a virtual meeting or even in person with a client. 

4) Milk Storage and More 

The more you can leave at work, the lighter the load will be on your commute. If you will be traveling with your pump, choose a pumping bag that can store it all: Spectra pump, cooler case, water bottle, laptop, water bottle, snacks, and other personal items. Check out our new pump, store and feed system! The Spectra Simple Storage Kit uses innovative technology that will keep your milk clean, safe, and always ready to use. No more bottle washing either!  

It’s recommended that you wash all your pumping parts after every use. If you know you won’t have access to a sink, bring enough sets of pump parts to get you through the day. Placing pumping parts in the refrigerator in between uses is not recommended. 

5) Community and Support 

Let your managers and co-workers know in advance that you will be pumping milk for your baby. Make friends with other pumping moms in your office. If there are other women using the lactation room at your office, try to get to know them. Having pumping mommy friends can make your breastfeeding journey even more meaningful. Knowing you are not alone can get you through a rough day and help you press on. Connect with a virtual breastfeeding support group too! 

Can’t get a letdown? This is common when moms return to work. Try to relax. Throw a nursing cover over you, listen to music, or watch videos of your baby. Whatever you do, don’t watch the bottles! It can be stressful pumping on a time crunch and can take some time to get used to. With patience, practice, and support you can continue to meet your breastfeeding goals. 

Are you returning to work virtually from home? We got you covered. Check out our top tips to make the transition smooth and easy!  Need help returning to work at the office or virtual? Our IBCLCs can help with pumping schedules, flange sizing, and much more. Schedule your complimentary phone call or virtual consultation today. 

 

Spectra 9 Plus Electric Breast Pump

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mom holding 9 plus breast pump

The 9 Plus is Spectra’s smallest pump, weighing in at only ½ a pound!  This tiny, but mighty pump offers the ultimate in on-the-go single or double pumping.  The rechargeable battery allows for convenient pumping in almost any location.  Though this pump is small, it isn’t lacking in features!  It provides up to 260mmHg of suction and is still considered hospital strength. The 9 Plus also offers an adjustable Massage Mode along with 10 levels of vacuum in Expression Mode and a convenient timer. The backlit LCD screen is an added feature that moms love as well. Pair this little powerhouse with the hands-free CaraCups and you have a convenient hands-free pumping setup without sacrificing effectiveness! Like with all of Spectra Baby Electric Breast Pumps, this pocket-sized pump also comes with a 2-year warranty. 

The Spectra 9 Plus Features include: 

  • Single or Double Pump capability
  • Vacuum suction up to L10
  • 260 mmHg
  • Weighs only .5 pounds
  • LCD screen
  • ( 2 ) Years Warranty on pump | 90 days on accessories

The Spectra 9 Plus comes with everything you need to single and double pump.

  • Two (2) 24mm Spectra Breast Flanges
  • Two (2) Spectra Tubing
  • Two (2) Spectra Duckbill Valves
  • Two (2) Spectra Backflow Protectors. Includes silicone membrane, uppercase, and lowercase for each Backflow Protector
  • Two (2) Spectra Wide Neck Storage Bottles. Includes nipple, cap, disc, and lid for each bottle
  • One (1) Spectra 9-Volt AC Power Adapter. Includes detachable power cord prongs

Can’t decide on which Spectra Breast Pump is right for you? Schedule a complimentary virtual consultation with one of our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants today! 

All About the Spectra S1 Electric Breast Pump

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baby on bed with s1 plus

Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump 

If you are a busy mom on the go looking for outlet-free customized pumping sessions, then the Spectra S1 is the perfect pump for you! A favorite among exclusive pumpers, the Spectra S1 Plus is hospital strength and a closed system that allows for single or double pumping. Along with loads of customizable features, the Spectra S1 pump weighs in at only under 3lbs. The multi-phase “suckle” makes pumping with the S1 feel comfortable and natural. You’ll have 3 hours of battery life with the Spectra S1, delivering convenience that can make a pumping mom’s life easier! When you’re already juggling a thousand things, CONVENIENCE MATTERS! Unplugging this pump and going cordless doesn’t compromise suction like with some other battery-powered pumps. The rechargeable S1 is typically offered as an “upgrade” through health insurance plans. Countless moms have reported the additional cost of the S1 as being “worth every penny.”  If a rechargeable pump with the customization of 12 vacuum levels, 5 Expression Cycles, and an adjustable Massage Mode sounds like a dream, then the S1 is for you! 

The Spectra S1 Features include: 

  • Closed Pumping System
  • Single or Double Pump capability
  • Customizable Settings 
  • Rechargeable 3-hour battery life
  • 270 mmHg
  • Weighs only 3 lbs
  • Built-in night-light
  • LCD screen
  • ( 2 ) Years Warranty on pump | 90 days on accessories.

 

The Spectra S1 Electric Breast Pump Accessories:

  • Two (2) 24mm Spectra Breast Flanges
  • Two (2) 28mm Spectra Breast Flanges
  • Two (2) Spectra Tubing
  • Two (2) Spectra Duckbill Valves
  • Two (2) Spectra Backflow Protectors. Includes silicone membrane, uppercase, and lowercase for each Backflow Protector
  • Two (2) Spectra Wide Neck Storage Bottles. Includes nipple, cap, disc, and lid for each bottle
  • One (1) Spectra 12-Volt AC Power Adapter 

Can’t decide on which Spectra Breast Pump is right for you? Schedule a complimentary virtual consultation with one of our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants today! 

Check out the digital S1 Plus Manual for more information.

Level Up with the Spectra Caracups

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Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC

Are you looking to take your pumping game to the next level? Introducing the new wearable Spectra CaraCups! This new easy-to-use wearable pumping technology has totally revolutionized traditional breast pumping, and here’s how.

Simple to Insert
The Spectra baby USA CaraCups are discreet and simple to slip inside your regular bra. Yep, you got it! No fancy pumping bra is needed. Instead, you can easily slide them into your bra, center your nipple and start pumping right away. Pumping moms need all the extra time they can get. The Spectra CaraCups allows you to save pumping time since you won’t need to put on a pumping bra and attach bottles. 

Switch it up
The Spectra CaraCups hold up to 8oz in each cup and come with external flanges, which can also be used with the Spectra baby USA wide-necked bottles. The versatile new flat external flanges fit comfortably around the breast and can be used with or without the wearable cups.

Sit Back and Relax
No bottles are visible while pumping. No more torturing yourself watching bottles slowly fill up. This can be frustrating and even impact your milk supply! Have better letdowns and maximize your pumping sessions. You can even lie back on a chair or sofa when pumping and rest!

Stay Engaged
The Spectra CaraCups are compatible with the complete line of Spectra baby USA breast pumps. But truly the best part is the mobility! Combine it with our sleek portable 9Plus, and you’ll be unstoppable at multitasking. At home, you can easily pump while comforting a clingy toddler, whip up dinner or get active outdoors, all while expressing your liquid gold! At the office pump in meetings, with clients, or on breaks. It really doesn’t matter if you are pumping at home or in the office; the Spectra CaraCups will make all the difference in your pumping journey by allowing you to be more present with your baby, family, and coworkers.

The Spectra CaraCups are designed with Spectra Baby USA’s trusted closed system, always keeping milk clean and safe for your baby. Spectra CaraCups come in sizes 24/28mm and are compatible with most popular massagers and inserts on the market. Not sure what size to get? Find your perfect flange size here.

Expert tips:

Parts should be thoroughly washed and air dried before assembly.

Duckbills should be at a slant; if not placed correctly, suction will be compromised. (Duckbills should be replaced every 6-8 weeks and are sold separately specific to CaraCups.)

Connect tubing first before inserting into bra, and tubing should come out from the top.

When done, turn off the pump. Remove tubing first, then carefully remove each cup.

Place cups on a flat surface to prevent milk from spilling.

Carefully disassemble and transfer your breast milk into Spectra baby USA collection containers or storage bags with the easy pour cup spout.

Check out the digital Spectra CaraCup manual for detailed instructions on cleaning and assembly here.

Need help going hands-free with the wearable Spectra CaraCups? Our Spectra baby USA IBCLC experts are happy to help answer your questions so that you can get back to what matters most—making milk for your baby.

What To Do When The Witching Hour Hits

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The witching hour is a phrase used for an inconsolable baby typically between the hours of 6pm and 10pm, despite every effort to calm them.  It was originally a phrase used in the middle of the night when paranormal activity was most expected. For any mom that has experienced their baby during “witching hour”, this original idea isn’t far-fetched!  This can be a very trying time of day for mom, baby, and family when everyone is returning home from their busy days and everyone could use some relaxation time.

Tips for Dealing with ‘Witching Hour’

    1. Decrease baby’s stimulation.   By the end of the day, baby might just need a rain check from all the excitement. Put them in a nearby dim or quiet room and try to play soothing music or white noise.
    2. Feed on demand or cluster feed. Milk supply is lowest in the evenings.  The best way to make sure your breasts are keeping up with baby’s demand is to try to feed them whenever they are giving you hunger cues.   This will help boost your supply for the evening times in the future, keeping them well fed and happy.
    3. Put them to bed earlier.  Your baby may simply need to go to bed as early as 6 pm to prevent getting overtired.  Keeping them awake to get them to sleep through the night can backfire since it leaves them fussy and unable to calm themselves down for the night.
  • Let them nap more during the day.  Again, trying to keep babies awake to sleep better later does not typically work.  Putting them down for more frequent naps during the day may help combat end of the day overstimulation.  Since witching hour most commonly starts at 6 weeks, remember that most babies this age still need up to 16 hours of sleep per day!  
  1. Ask for help.  If you are feeling stressed, either directly from a fussy baby or from outside stressors (work, family life, etc.), make sure you’re asking for help.  Chances are if you’re feeling stressed your baby is picking up on that and making (or maybe even causing) the situation worse. This might mean getting help around the house so you can focus on baby more at the end of day or getting some personal time away from baby.  Do what will help you manage your own stress and recharge!
  2. Try soothing techniques. Find what works for your baby such as a warm bath, magic hold, a warm bath,  skin to skin snuggles, pacifier, singing, walking, rocking, vibrations and white noise.
  3. Talk to a specialist about your milk supply.  On average, breastfed babies need about 25 ounces of milk per day.  This can be hard to judge if you’re exclusively breastfeeding but totally feasible if you are pumping by tracking their intake.  If you’re concerned your baby is truly frustrated due to low milk supply, try boosting it. Start with these basic tips here.

If you are concerned there is something more going on talk to your pediatrician to rule out other potential issues like reflux or allergies. It can be hard to imagine while in the thick of it, but remember this is just a phase.  Try not to wish away those first few months because of witching hour and enjoy all the little moments. Before you know it, baby will be grown and you’ll be an empty nester. For more baby and mom support check out Spectra Baby USA’s blog here.  

Surviving Cluster Feeding and Those Long, Fussy Nights

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by Jenny Silverstone

If you’re breastfeeding your baby, you may have been warned about cluster feeding by your other mom friends. It can be a difficult phase to get through and you may even question if you are making enough milk, but we’ve got your back with all the information you’ll need.

What is Cluster Feeding?

Cluster feeding is a normal phase, especially for breastfed babies. While babies eat often — somewhere between 8 to 12 times in a single day — with cluster feedings, a lot of those feedings will be close together. It often happens in the evening — suddenly your baby will want to be at your breast endlessly.  Cluster feeding is completely normal and usually occurs in your baby’s first six months. You’ll likely see it for the first time soon after your baby is born. It’s a hard time for moms. It’s tiring, and it prevents them from getting anything else done.  Cluster feeding may last just a couple days or it can last for a few weeks. Only your baby will decide that — it will know when and for how long it needs more milk. Your little one is basically telling your body to increase your milk supply with the extra stimulation at breast to meet their growing body’s nutritional needs.

What Causes Cluster Feeding?

No one is really certain what causes cluster feeding. It could be caused by a variety of reasons. Perhaps a baby is having a growth spurt and needs more milk to fuel it. And since so many cluster feedings tend to occur at night, it can feel soothing to your baby to do when they are undergoing developmental stages.

How Cluster Feeding Can Help Moms

Because your baby is attached to your breast for sometimes hours at a stretch, cluster feeding doesn’t feel like a good thing for you, even though you may love the extra snuggles from your babies. But it’s so demanding, it can leave you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.  When that happens, you need to keep the positives of cluster feeding in your mind so you feel better about your situation. Looking on the bright side can really help, so here are a couple of big positives about cluster feeding.

  • It can increase your milk supply: Because your milk supply ramps up with frequent breastfeeding or pumping sessions, you’ll feel less worried about potentially running out of milk as your baby grows. You can use that extra milk to build up your freezer stash. It’s amazing how your body knows exactly what to do to meet your baby’s needs!
  • Your baby might sleep longer stretches in the night: There’s an outside possibility that cluster feeding might make your child sleep longer at night, which means you could also sleep longer. While there’s no guarantee, it’s nice to have that to daydream about — a good night’s sleep.

How To Survive Cluster Feeding

Any way you slice it, cluster feeding is tough. Your baby will be so fussy, you’ll wonder what’s going on, and after a while, you’re going to be tired of being treated like an all-you-can-eat buffet. You may feel like you’re barely clinging to sanity, but there are some ways you can take the sting out of the experience.

  • Make a cluster feeding kit: You’re going to be tied up for hours during these cluster feeding sessions so you need to be prepared. Have a movie ready to watch, have snacks and water nearby, and grab a few magazines or a book to keep on hand.
  • Enlist help: You’re the only one with the breast milk your baby needs, but that doesn’t mean others can’t help too. Your partner should also be in on this non-stop fun. If your baby takes a break in the breastfeeding action, even just for a few minutes, hand your little one off to your partner and give your body a much-needed break.
  • Don’t skimp on the food and drinks: Aim for nutritious food and don’t forget to stay well-hydrated. Breastfeeding is a lot of work for your body and it needs all the nourishment it can get. Breastfeeding torches an estimated 500 calories a day normally, and you may burn more than that when your baby cluster feeds.
  • Get enough sleep: Because of all the extra feedings, you’re going to be more tired than ever. Even if it’s the early evening hours and you have a million other things you’d rather be doing, lay down when your baby does and try to get some power naps in there.
  • Let your baby dictate what it wants: You might be so tired of breastfeeding after a few days of cluster feeding that you’ll look for other ways to soothe your baby. Babies know what they want and what they need when it comes to how much milk they take in, so feed them as often as they need it.
  • Give your arms a rest: Put your baby down whenever possible — in a baby swing, a crib, or a pack ‘n play. Babies may be light, but they feel super heavy on the arms after a while. You could potentially be holding your baby for hours, so you need to pencil in a break for your arms whenever you can.
  • Let the chores go: Your house may look like a disaster zone during cluster feeding episodes, and you’ll have to be okay with that. You can ask your partner to pitch in more during this time. If that’s not possible, just let it go and do your best to catch up with it when things are back to normal.
  • Don’t turn on the lights at night: If your baby gets up frequently in the night during cluster feeding episodes, make it your goal to get your baby back to sleep as soon as possible. Keep those lights off, don’t make any loud noises, and change their diaper before the feeding begins so they can be put in their crib as soon as they get their nourishment.

Making Sure Your Nipples Can Handle It

Even if you sail through the exhaustion and all the sitting you’re going to have to do, you still might have other issues with cluster feeding. Your mind might be strong, but your nipples could be feeling like they have been dipped in lava.  What’s a girl to do when her nipples are cracked and possibly bleeding but her baby is screaming for more? First of all, ensure that you have the baby latched properly at breast to prevent nipple trauma. It’s not about having baby on like a “bullseye”; it’s more about the proper latch. If you are concerned baby is only getting the nipple when latching, reach out to a Lactation Consultant for help.

Outside of proper latch and positioning, here are some solutions when you feel like your nipples have gone around with sandpaper.

  • Put nipple cream to work: Nipple cream can be soothing. You can either use coconut oil, creams available in stores, or you can even try rubbing a few drops of breast milk over your nipples when feeding time is done. If you use a cream, make sure to wash it off your nipples before feeding your baby again if that’s required on the instructions.
  • Skip the tight bras: While your nipples are sore, you should avoid tight bras or ones that are made of scratchy material. That will just make you feel even worse.
  • Use warm moisture: Keeping your nipples hydrated will help and using warm, not hot, water will feel soothing and keep them from drying out. You can put a damp and warm towel over your nipples for a few minutes and see if that helps.
  • Ditch the shirt: If you don’t have any older children living with you and you have shades or blinds up over your windows to block you from any nosy neighbors, you can go shirtless too. That will stop any unnecessary chafing.
  • Use different positions while breastfeeding: Changing the angle slightly during each session may protect your nipples a bit.

Should You Be Concerned?

When your baby deviates from their established routine or what is normal for them, of course, you’re going to be worried. You’ll wonder if something is wrong with your baby or if you’re doing something incorrectly to cause them to act that way.  To make yourself feel better and cover your bases, make sure your baby is still frequently having wet and dirty (stool) diapers in case you are suddenly having problems with your supply. You should see at least five very wet diapers a day from your baby — if you don’t see this many, call your doctor.  It may also be a good idea to call your doctor or Lactation Consultant if your baby’s cluster feeding has gone on for more than a few days. While it can be normal for it to last longer than that, you’ll probably be really worried by this point and a quick doctor’s visit would be worth it to ease your mind.

You Can Do It, Super Mom!

Cluster feedings are just a minor speed bump during all the years you’ll have as a parent, so it’s helpful to keep it in perspective when you’re in the midst of it and it feels insurmountable. You’ll be through this challenge in just a few days and you’ll feel more confident that you can get through anything.

About the Author

Jenny Silverstone is the mother of two, and breastfeeding advocate and an editor and writer for the popular parenting blog Mom Loves Best. Jenny’s loves helping inspire and educate other mothers on all topics related to breastfeeding, pumping breastmilk, and dealing with low milk supply.

 

 

5 Quick Tips for Pumping at Work

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by Amanda G.

Pumping at work gets much more manageable once you figure out the logistics and get yourself into a routine.

Here are five quick tips to make pumping at work easier.

  1. Leave an extra set of pump parts at your office.

Trying to leave the house on time and get to work is hard. It’s even harder when you’re trying to get your baby ready too and you need to get your pump bag packed.

A checklist can help you make sure that you have everything you need when you leave the house. But even with a system, there’s a good chance that one day you’re going to be in a hurry and forget something crucial, like breast shields or collection bottles to pump into.

(The first time I forgot my breast shields, in desperation, I actually tried putting my nipple directly into the connector and starting the pump. That was a very bad idea. OUCH!)

In order to avoid having to either go home or try to buy a replacement for whatever it is you forgot, have an extra backup set of pump parts and bottles at work. This way you’ll have peace of mind and be ready for when the inevitable happens.

 

  1. Get a hands-free pumping bra so that you can do other things while you pump.

If you’re pumping two or three times per day at work, that’s a total of 30-45 minutes a day, or about three hours a week, getting a hands-free bra so that you can do other things besides holding your breast shields during the time you spend pumping can be a game changer. This way, while you pump, you can work on a laptop, take notes while you’re on a conference call, or take a break and read a book or magazine.

 

  1. Have as many sets of pump parts as you have pumping sessions in a day.

I used to recommend leaving pump parts in the refrigerator between uses, but the CDC recently issued guidelines stating that pump parts should be washed as soon as possible after each use. (More about the new guidelines here.)

To avoid spending a lot of time washing pump parts – and deal with getting access to a sink, if your lactation room doesn’t have one – bring enough sets of pump parts to get you through a day. Then you can wash them all in one batch, either at home or at the end of the day at work.

 

  1. Carry as little as possible back and forth to work every day.

The more things that you can leave at work (in addition to the extra pump parts mentioned above), the less complicated your mornings will be. So, if you can leave your pump, a hands-free bra, and whatever else you need – breast pads, freezer bags, lanolin – at work, too, then you can travel back and forth with just empty bottles and an ice pack in the morning, and full bottles in the afternoon.

(Obviously, if you need your pump at home, this might not be feasible, but one option is to get an extra manual pump you can use at home when needed.)

 

  1. Make friends with the other pumping moms in your office.

If there are other women using the lactation room at your office, try to get to know them! Having a relationship in place can be really helpful when your boss schedules a meeting and you need to switch your pumping time with someone else.

Did you miss out Live Q&A?  We got you covered!

 

Returning to Work: Planning and Pumping

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by Bonne Dunham, IBCLC

The prospect of returning to work after your baby is born can be a very frightening and overwhelming prospect for some Mothers, but with a little extra planning and knowledge about how to do this, you can smooth out this transition quite a bit.

In case you didn’t already know, there are several benefits to combining work and breastfeeding.  Knowing this might help give you a little bit of extra strength to leap over some of the more common hurdles that women face when re-entering the workforce AND taking care of a baby!  It’s not easy, but you got this!

Here are some benefits of combining work and breastfeeding:

Benefits to Baby:  Making the decision to supply breastmilk to your baby while you are working provides protection from ear infections, respiratory infections, allergies, colds, viruses and diabetes to name a few.

Benefits to Mother: Reduced risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer; decreases the risk of osteoporosis and allows for precious time to reconnect with baby.

Benefits to Your Wallet: One-day absences to care for an ill child occur more than twice as frequently for women who formula feed their infants as compared to those who breastfeed. And if you haven’t checked out the cost of formula…it isn’t cheap!

Setting Goals and Planning Ahead Will Reduce Stress

  •    Speaking with your supervisor about your plans for pumping at work BEFORE maternity leave is a great idea. If not before, than as soon as possible.
  •    Locate the lactation room in your workplace; does it have a fridge to store your pumped milk or will you have to bring a small cooler?
  •    Order you pump BEFORE your baby is born and understand how it works. While you are at it, gather your other pumping supplies ahead of time; collection bottles, storage bags and cleaning supplies.
  •    Plan your day: how will pumping fit into your workday? Consider making a mock-up of what your day will look like, from the moment you get up to when you step back through your doors. When and where will you pump? For most moms, pumping every 3 hours or so when separated from baby, for much of the first year, will help to keep your milk supply up and running.

Introduction of Pumping & Bottles

Week 1-4: Avoid pumping. Take this time to be with your baby! Allow the infant to naturally ‘program’ and establish your milk supply.

Week 4-6: Begin pumping once a day for 10-15 minutes and introduce a bottle. Adding this pumping session in during the morning or evening can be the best for when your milk supply is at its peak.

Weeks 6 and Beyond: Pump daily to store your milk or to have ready for your workday.

Milk Storage Strategies…The best tip I ever received!

The freshest is the bestest! Ok, bestest is not really a word, but I bet you get the picture: Always try to give your baby the freshest milk you have on hand, it will be highest in nutritive quality and deliver the most health benefits. Think “first in, first out”.

However, it’s also a good idea to rotate your frozen stash a bit too. Here is a way to do that: On Sunday night, take a days’ worth of frozen milk out of the freezer to thaw overnight in the fridge to feed baby on Monday. The milk you pump for Monday while at work will feed baby on Tuesday; Tuesdays’ pumped milk feeds baby on Wednesday, etc. No need to freeze this milk in-between, just keep it cool in the fridge.

Remember: Take a deep breath, take care of yourself too, and ask others for help. Leave us a comment about how you returned to work while breastfeeding and pumping.

How Pumping Enhanced My Breastfeeding Journey

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By Ericah Miller #RealMomStory

Motherhood is a gift. It is also one of the most important full-time jobs you’ll ever have. You’re responsible for loving, protecting, shaping, and nurturing this adorable little human who was next in line to join this world we live in.  It’s a big deal. It’s a 24/7 job actually. There are no paid breaks for every four hours worked. No paid time off, vacation time, and no paid sick time. You’re paid in sweet little coos, smiles, and giggles which turn into sweet phrases and affectionate little hugs to mommy. As they grow, you feel a moving satisfaction watching them thrive at their own pace. It’s amazing. It’s one of those gifts in life I’ll never understand how I was fortunate enough to experience.

However, for me, it is a job you learn on the fly. I wasn’t warned that motherhood would leave me sleep deprived to the point of tears. Given, I decided to breastfeed without supplementing, that eliminated even more sleep from my regimen. But when one great lactation nurse introduced me to pumping, it totally enhanced my life. Pumping my breast milk allowed me to receive help from my spouse with nightly feedings. Although I was never the mom with an overflow or a freezer supply, pumping even made it possible to occasionally have an outing for myself and the occasional date night with my husband. With the twelve weeks of my maternity leave, cabin fever may eventually set in for moms like myself. You need an outlet—some quality time alone, aka ME TIME. Pumping milk allows you to do this. Also, when that maternity leave ends for us working moms, that milk gives both you and baby that warm, fuzzy feeling while you’re apart. Well, maybe not warm, fuzzy right away for mom, but it definitely gives you the security that your baby has what they need while you’re apart.

I’ve literally tried several different pumps and landed on the Spectra S2Plus.

Occasionally, I was discouraged by the amount of time I spent pumping and my output. Although my supply wasn’t in abundance, I typically had what my baby needed. It just took an eternity to get it out with the other pumps. Spectra was my fifth pump and it helped lessen the time tremendously with an even better output. I often got more ounces out with it. Another plus was that it didn’t leave me feeling like someone had attached a blaring vacuum cleaner to my chest lol. My Spectra was so quiet that I was able to pump in the office quietly without distracting anyone walking past the office like my others. A great pump can change the trajectory of your breastfeeding journey. It’s extremely easy to want to quit if you’re pumping and experiencing difficulty with supply or time allotted at work for pumping. A friendly and efficient pump can enhance the journey so much that you’ll look up like me and realize it’s already been fourteen months! I have no plans of stopping for at least the next ten months. Both of my children are pretty healthy and I honestly believe the use of my Spectra pump is a part of that success. Makes me wish I’d had my Spectra the first time around almost eight years ago!

If you’re thinking about what pump to get, trust the other thousands of us who have tried many others and stick with Spectra.  Check here to see if your insurance covers it.

Traveling Tricks for Pumping Moms On the Go

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5 tips to prep for your time away from home

New moms, we know travel can be tough. Not only do you have to spend time away from your little one, but you also have to worry about how, when, and where to pump in a place that’s new to you. Luckily, we’ve thought this one through for you! Check out our top five tips on storing, pumping, and transporting that liquid gold while you’re away from home.

#1 Build Up a Supply

Before you leave town, stock up an extra supply of milk to cover as many days of your trip as possible. Pumping after each nursing session is a great way to store away a few ounces at a time. You may be able to squeeze in an extra pumping session or two each day as your baby develops their feeding schedule.

#2 Choose the Right Pump

When you’re traveling, the Spectra S1 Double Electric Breast Pump is the way to go. It’s easily portable and charges like an iPhone, so you don’t have to worry about batteries. When you need to squeeze in a quick pump on the go (aka: airplane bathrooms), the Spectra S1 will be your new best friend.

Along with your pump, be sure to pack backup parts like extra storage bags, valves, and tubing as an added precaution. With Ashland Women’s Health, you can get the Spectra pump and accessories delivered right to your door, free of charge. Simply fill out this form with your insurance information to make sure you’re eligible. Interested in the portable version? For just a small upgrade charge, Ashland’s got you covered.

#3 Find a Place to Pump

For even the most confident mother, pumping outside of the comfort of your home can be intimidating. Add traveling in the mix and finding a place to pump privately is even harder to come by. Thankfully, the Mamava app is here to help, providing breastfeeding accommodations near you, along with instructions on how to access them. Mamava even has lactation pods that are starting to pop up everywhere, offering a private, compassionate space to pump.

If it’s your first time pumping away from your little one, speak with an experienced IBCLC. You can find one using Spectra Baby USA’s list of certified IBCLCs. If you live in the Chicagoland area, The Lactation Network from Ashland Women’s Health is also an invaluable resource. The Lactation Network’s IBLCLCs use their expertise to walk you through the pumping process—and, hey, they’re available and free* through your insurance!

#4 Transport It

When you’re pumping during your trip, it’s important to make sure you have a plan in place to get that liquid gold home. Milk Stork is a great company that provides prepaid refrigerated boxes so you can easily ship breast milk via overnight delivery. Simply select the size of box you need, and Milk Stork will deliver directly to wherever you’re staying. All you’ll have to do is pack up the box and drop it off at FedEx. Still need some extra room? Try using a Yeti cooler as a backup. These coolers are airplane-friendly and a great reusable option for future trips.

#5 Make Time for “Me Time”

As moms ourselves, we know how hard it is to be away from home. To unwind from the chaos of travel, carve out some time for self-care. Whether you prefer turning on some bad TV or cuddling up with a good book, charging your battery is a key ingredient to making it all work. Feeling guilty is normal, especially if it’s your first time away from your little one. But making the most of those few days away—did someone say a full, uninterrupted night of sleep?—will make those sweet baby snuggles even more worth the while when you get home.

*Exclusions may apply. Limited to specific insurance providers.

Exclusively Pumping: Why and How

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By Jennifer Gaskill

As a first-time mother, I experienced both the demanding and rewarding sides of providing breast milk for my child. My breastfeeding journey was unique and challenging. Like many moms today, my expressed breast milk saved the day. Nowadays, exclusively pumping, once the territory of mostly NICU moms, has become the chosen feeding option for more women.

Some women turn to pumping after dealing with latch and supply issues and/or lack of support at the start of their breastfeeding journey.  For these women, pumping is the one way to supply breast milk to their child. Moreover, working mothers must build up a milk bank before going back to work, helping make the transition easier for both mom and baby.  It is essential that moms considering pumping choose an efficient pump.

Choose the right tool

Most experts state that quality, closed-valve, hospital-strength pumps work best.  Exclusive pumpers must choose a pump that can endure five or more sessions per day throughout the breastfeeding experience. Here are some tips for choosing a pump:

  • Choose a pump with 250 mmHg or higher vacuum strength (also known as a hospital strength). Spectra’s single-user pumps are among the hospital-strength pumps recommended to exclusive pumpers. Moms can customize their settings to personalize vacuum pressure and cycle speed.  
  • If you cannot purchase a pump, you can rent one or buy a used one. When using these options, always choose a pump labeled as ‘multi-user’. Otherwise, the motor may not be designed to endure multiple users and an exclusive pumping regiment. Always purchase new accessories/parts; rentals and second-hand pumps include pump and motor only.  
  • Most insurance companies provide coverage for hospital-strength pumps. You can call your insurance plan or go online to determine your breast pump coverage. Breast pumps are issued by “DMEs” (durable medical equipment) and you can find one that works with your insurance plan here.

Timing is everything

Initially, exclusive pumpers should pump as often as the average newborn baby nurses (about 8-12 times per day). Experts recommend pumping every two to three hours. The timing starts from the beginning of one session to the beginning of the next.  To protect your supply, avoid going longer than three hours between pumping sessions.

Maintaining breast milk supply

When starting out, it’s normal to see as little as 2 oz. combined per sessions. As supply builds, average daily output peaks at 19-30 oz.  Around four to six months, supply naturally starts to self-regulate and milk composition changes often to a higher fat content. A similar shift occurs around 8-12 months. Keeping pace with baby’s feeding schedule will ensure your supply continues to meet baby’s needs.   To keep the pump performing at its optimum, you must replace the accessories/parts periodically.

Maintenance and back-ups are essential

Be sure to regularly inspect and replace parts, especially valves and membranes. Exclusively pumping mothers should look to replace these parts every 2 months and part-time pumping mothers every 3 months. Worn, damaged, or incorrect parts are often to blame for supply fluctuations.   Furthermore, have at least one backup set of replacement parts/accessories available in case of emergency.

Support for exclusive pumping moms is out there.  Whether it comes from a close-knit group of friends, a lactation consultant, or an internet community of like-minded moms. We all know providing breast milk for baby is a labor of love, and having the appropriate supplies and resources makes the journey so much easier.  You can join our support community on Facebook here.

Postpartum While Breastfeeding

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by Jenn Foster, MA, IBCLC, RLC

You aren’t alone…don’t suffer in silence!
The prevalence of Postpartum Depression or Postnatal Depression has been documented in affecting an alarming 13-20% of women after the delivery of their baby. In fact, the U.S. Surgeon General Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding indicated that PPD affects a minimum of “13 percent of mothers” (Surgeon General, 2011, p.3).
The effects of PPD (Postpartum Depression) or PND (Postnatal Depression) are astounding and most commonly not understood or addressed by both the medical community or the expectant mother/family. Healthcare Providers (HCPs) are not well educated, equipped or informed to help women during the postpartum period outside of what the textbook and past experience has shown them. Postpartum depression, Prenatal depression, and Postpartum anxiety are closely related.

Does breastfeeding help?
Breastfeeding has historically been tied to the reduction of these symptoms (Fairlie, et. al., 2009, p.945) and even the U.S. Surgeon General indicated that due to the close bonding and psychological occurrences that happen during breastfeeding (including the release of Oxytocin) that “breastfeeding may help to lower the risk of postpartum depression, a serious condition” (Surgeon General, 2011, p.3). So, boob on Mommies!

How can I move forward, meet my personal breastfeeding goals, and be supported?
There needs to be more detection and awareness of depressive symptoms during pregnancy, supporting breastfeeding practices and knowledge of breastfeeding resources for those practitioners who can refer a mother/baby dyad. In the meantime, educate yourselves. This will help to better educate those around you, get the support you need and find a like-minded Healthcare Provider that can provide you guidance based on evidence-based information.
Find local support, whether online or in person through FB groups, mom to mom groups with baby and other such resources.

Can I breastfeed and get help for Postpartum Depression?
YES! Breastfeeding should be supported, whether at breast directly or expressed with a breast pump. The benefits of breastfeeding while dealing with any of these conditions indicated above is the degree of breastfeeding (exclusive, partial, token), support structure for the mother/baby dyad and education on what can be taken during the time of the mother’s symptoms being experienced.
There are many medications for depression, anxiety, and other conditions that are supported while breastfeeding. This includes whether baby is at breast or receiving your pumped mother’s milk. The find the most accurate information on how a specific medication, supplement or over the counter substance would affect you, your baby and/or milk supply you should consult a specialist. The Infant Risk Center is a great option: www.infantrisk.org

Leave us a comment letting us know your thoughts and stories.  We would love to learn how you’ve gotten through this period of life.

Did you miss the live Q&A? You can join us over on FB or IG Live every Wednesday at 12 pm EST.

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