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Breastfeeding Basics

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By Jacque Ordner BSN, RN, IBCLC 

Breastfeeding is natural and the biological norm for feeding babies, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy! We’ve got you covered with top tips for getting started and avoiding common pitfalls. 

The human breast continues to develop milk-making glands, ducts, and other structures involved with lactation throughout pregnancy. For this reason, it is normal to experience breast changes including an increase in size, increased sensitivity, darkening of the areola and nipple, and even leaking of colostrum in late pregnancy. These are all great signs that your body is getting ready to feed your baby! 

After baby is born (more specifically, after the placenta is delivered) mom’s body experiences a hormone shift that triggers the production of breast milk.  For the first few days, women’s bodies make a thick, sticky liquid called colostrum.  Colostrum is a POWERHOUSE of nutrients and bioactive immune factors the help seal up your baby’s gut and protect him or her from illnesses.  Colostrum is small in volume but is just what baby needs in the early days.  Due to its thick, sticky consistency, colostrum can be difficult to express with a breast pump.  Many moms have more success using hand expression.  Here’s a great video with more information on hand expression in the early days:  https://med.stanford.edu/newborns/professional-education/breastfeeding/hand-expressing-milk.html  Newborn tummies are tiny and are made to stretch as mom’s milk supply increases in the initial postpartum period. 

Placing baby skin to skin with mom and offering unlimited access to the breasts can have a huge impact on later breastfeeding success.  Latching baby within the first hour is ideal.  However, not latching in the first hour doesn’t mean breastfeeding will be unsuccessful!  Breastfeeding is a new sensation but shouldn’t be painful.  If you’re experiencing pain with latching or pumping, reach out for help from an IBCLC.  Frequent nursing helps mom’s milk supply increase faster.  Mothers make transitional milk (often somewhat yellow, very nutritious breastmilk) until about 6 weeks postpartum when transitional milk becomes mature milk (often whiter and more abundant breastmilk). If baby is unable to latch or is not nursing effectively, it is imperative that mom begin pumping with a high quality, hospital grade breast pump.  Studies show that 120 minutes/24 hours of good quality nipple/breast stimulation is needed to bring in and maintain a full milk supply. A full milk supply (after about 6 weeks postpartum) is between 750ml and 1035ml. 

Newborns nurse often!  We often hear that babies should nurse at least 8-12 times in 24 hours, but it is also normal for them to nurse even more.  If your newborn is producing 6-8 wet diapers in 24 hours and 3-4 dirty diapers in 24 hours, along with maintaining appropriate growth, then breastfeeding is likely going well! Remember, painful latching is a sign that something isn’t quite right even if baby is gaining weight well.   

If nursing is going well, there is no need to pump right away!  Many moms stress over when to add in pumping once they bring baby home.  In general, if nursing is going well, there is no need to add in pumping until around 4-6 weeks postpartum.  Pumping and nursing can lead to an oversupply of milk, and in-turn, increased risk of clogged ducts and mastitis.  However, many moms choose to introduce pumping as they anticipate returning to work soon after delivery.  If your baby requires a supplement, or if you are pumping milk for bottle feeding, Paced Bottle Feeding is key!  Check out this great demonstration for tips on avoiding overfeeding and helping baby transition from breast to bottle and back: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K3O3grKusA 

Confidence is key!  Moms and babies are made to breastfeed!  If you are struggling with breastfeeding (pumping is breastfeeding too) or just need reassurance that things are going well, don’t hesitate to reach to an IBCLC for help!  Our IBCLCs are available to support you as well.  Email us at ibclc@spectrababyusa.com or set up a virtual consultation at www.spectrababyusa.com/lactationservices .   

 

Sources: 

Lawrence, R. A., & Lawrence, R. M. (2016). Breastfeeding: A guide for the medical profession. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier. 

Mohrbacher, N. (2012, November 27). How Much Milk Should You Expect to Pump? Retrieved July 27, 2020, from http://www.nancymohrbacher.com/articles/2012/11/27/how-much-milk-should-you-expect-to-pump.html 

Unboxing the S1 and S2

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With so many breast pump options, it can be overwhelming to make a final choice to meet your specific breastfeeding needs. Before you decide on the perfect breast pump for you and your baby, you’ll need to consider a couple of factors like where and how often you will be pumping. No matter your breastfeeding journey, all Spectra baby USA Electric Breast Pumps offer high quality and amazing comfort. Read on to learn more about Spectra’s most popular breast pumps, the S1/S2 Plus! 

Spectra S2 Plus Electric Breast Pump

The Spectra S2 Plus is a hospital-strength, closed system pump that allows for single or double pumping. With a suction strength of 270mmHg, it has 12 adjustable expression vacuum levels and 5 cycle speed settings. Massage Mode is also customizable with up to 5 levels of vacuum suction to help effectively elicit let-down. The S2 Plus is the perfect pump for moms who regularly express their milk or exclusively pump.  The multi-phase “suckle” makes pumping with the S2 feel comfortable and stimulates a more natural milk flow. The Spectra S2 Plus is a top choice for many breastfeeding moms and is covered by most health insurance plans. 

The Spectra S2  Plus Features include: 

  • Closed Pumping System with Backflow Protection
  • Single or Double Pump capability
  • Customizable Dual-Phase Settings with Adjustable Suction 
  • Hospital Strength at 270 mmHg
  • Weighs 2.5 lbs
  • Soothing 2 level illumination light 
  • Touch screen LCD with timer control 
  • ( 2 ) Years Warranty

Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump 

A favorite among exclusive pumping moms, the Spectra S1 Plus includes all the features and functions of the S2 Plus in addition to a rechargeable battery!  The freedom of outlet-free pumping is often offered with a reasonable upgrade charge through health insurance plans.  Countless moms have reported the additional cost of the S1 as being “worth every penny!”  It’s no doubt that the 3-hour battery life delivers convenience that can make a pumping mom’s life easier, and when you’re already juggling a thousand things, convenience really does matter. Unplugging this pump doesn’t compromise suction like some other battery-powered pumps. You still get up to 270mmHg of suction, whether plugged or unplugged! If you want a portable and discreet pumping experience anywhere, the Spectra S1 Plus is the way to go! 

The Spectra S1 Plus Features include: 

  • Closed Pumping System with Backflow Protection
  • Single or Double Pump capability
  • Customizable Dual-Phase Settings with Adjustable Suction 
  • Hospital Strength 270 mmHg
  • Weighs 3 lbs
  • Soothing 2 level illumination light 
  • Touch screen LCD with timer control 
  • Rechargeable 3-hour battery life
  • ( 2 ) Years Warranty 

The Spectra S1 / S2 Plus Electric Breast Pump BPA Free 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 

Does your health insurance plan cover a Spectra pump? Learn more here. 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! We’re here for you and we support you! 

Milk Supply: What’s Normal?

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By Jacque Ordner BSN, RN, IBCLC, RLC 

Moms want what is best for their babies and are often concerned they won’t make adequate milk throughout the breastfeeding process.  Couple that concern with daily social media posts about huge freezer stashes and 10+ oz. pumping sessions and moms can get full on anxiety about whether their production is “normal”.  Don’t worry mamas!  We’re here to let you know what a full milk supply looks like and to hopefully calm your fears about just how much milk you’re likely going to need. 

THE AVERAGE BREASTMILK INTAKE FOR A BABY FROM 1 MONTH TO 6 MONTHS IS 25oz. PER DAY.  Research tells us that the range is from about 19oz to 30oz. per day.  Milk production usually peaks at around 40 days postpartum as well. Medically speaking, a full milk supply ranges from 750ml –1035ml per day. It’s also normal for this amount to fluctuate from day to day.  It’s normal to see pumping output fluctuate from session to session as well.  

FOR MOMS WHO ARE PRIMARILY DIRECTLY NURSING THEIR INFANTS, TYPICAL PUMPING OUTPUT CAN RANGE FROM 0.5 oz to 2 oz. PER SESSION. We talk to so many moms whose babies have been growing and thriving while nursing at the breast, but then mom becomes concerned when her first pumping session only yields about an ounce from both breasts combined.  We can literally hear the relief in their voices when we tell them that THIS IS NORMAL!  Mamas, you don’t have to be pumping 5-10 oz per session to be successful at breastfeeding!  The amount you can pump is not necessarily an indicator of the amount your body is making.  Pumping is a learned skill that takes time to develop for many moms. Take cues from your baby….if they’re growing well and making adequate wet and dirty diapers, chances are you’re making the perfect amount of milk for them.   

EXCLUSIVELY PUMPING MOMS TYPICALLY SEE A PUMPING OUTPUT OF 2oz. – 4oz. EVERY 2-3 HOURS. Pumping is a learned skill and can take some time to get used to.  The above output range is for moms whose supply is established (after 40 days postpartum).  Unfortunately, some moms have been told that exclusive pumping will not allow them to make a full milk supply.  This is just not true, mamas!  With a high-quality, hospital strength pump, a consistent pumping schedule, and well fitted flanges, moms can make a full milk supply (and more) with exclusive pumping. 

While it’s true that most women can make a full milk supply, it’s also true that a small percentage cannot.  If you suspect you have low milk supply or just need reassurance that things are going well, don’t hesitate to reach out to an IBCLC. Our Spectra Baby USA IBCLCs are here to help with free virtual consultations.  Click HERE to schedule. We can also help via email at ibclc@spectrababyusa.com  Happy pumping, mamas! 

 

Sources: 

Bonyata, K. (2018, January 02). Exclusive Pumping • KellyMom.com. Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://kellymom.com/mother2mother/exclusive-pumping/ 

Bonyata, K. (2018, January 16). I’m not pumping enough milk. What can I do? • KellyMom.com. Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://kellymom.com/hot-topics/pumping_decrease/ 

Lawrence, R. A., & Lawrence, R. M. (2016). Breastfeeding: A guide for the medical profession. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier. 

Mohrbacher, N. (2012, November 27). How Much Milk Should You Expect to Pump? Retrieved July 27, 2020, from http://www.nancymohrbacher.com/articles/2012/11/27/how-much-milk-should-you-expect-to-pump.html 

 

Getting Started with my Spectra Breast Pump

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Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

The first few weeks after your baby finally arrives is the time to soak in those yummy newborn snuggles. You shouldn’t have to worry about pumping just yet. But when you are ready, you might pump for reasons like going back to work, a weekend get-a-away, low milk supply, special circumstances with baby, or simply “my nipples just really need a break.”  It’s best to wait until 4 to 6 weeks postpartum to start pumping. However, pumping can be a lifesaver when you want a freezer stash of milk for returning to work or important “mommy time” away from baby!  Depending on your personal needs, you might need to pump occasionally or around the clock. Regardless of your reasons, one thing is for sure: pumping will allow your baby to continue receiving all those valuable immunological benefits that breast milk provides. 

Below are 5 facts to help you get started with your Spectra breast pump! 

1.Choosing the right breast pump and flange size

There are a few basic types of pumps: manual pumps, battery-operated pumps, and electrical pumps. Each of these pumps extracts milk by providing a seal around your nipple and areola while it applies and releases suction as baby would do at the breast. Suction strength and cycle speed will vary depending on the type of breast pump and whether you are single pumping (one breast) or double pumping (both breasts at once). If you are returning to work or exclusively pumping, a double electric breast pump will yield the best results. You can learn more about finding the perfect Spectra Baby USA hospital strength breast pump here. 

Finding the right size flange is an important part of the pumping process.  A flange that doesn’t fit properly could leave you with nipple pain, redness, and full breasts. Yikes!  No worries, it’s easy to measure your nipples using this breast shield guide that you can print out. This will save you time and stress with wondering whether or not you have the correct flange fit. 

2. When should I start pumping? 

If baby is growing well and has unlimited access to the breast, there is no need to start pumping right away. Pumping can add another layer to your busy day, and if breastfeeding is going well, no need to hook up the pump just yet. Waiting 6-8 weeks is best. You could even start sooner if you are returning to work around 4 weeks after birth, but keep in mind the very early weeks are for establishing your milk supply, bonding and nursing, not pumping. These guidelines are for healthy full-term infants. There are instances where pumping will be necessary right from the start, like with preterm infants or when medical conditions have been presented. 

Start with pumping once a day at first and then gradually increase sessions according to your breastfeeding goals. Starting with a pumping session about 30 min after an early morning nursing session is a great time! If you are returning to work, you will have plenty of time to build a nice freezer stash for when you are away. Moms are often surprised at how much milk they can store in just a few short weeks! 

3. Now, Let’s Get Pumping! 

Wash your hands with warm soapy water, gather your pump and accessories, and find a comfy place to relax. Don’t watch the collection bottles slowly fill up drop by drop! Instead, watch a video of your baby or listen to music! This can help you feel more at ease and allow your milk to start flowing freely. Research shows moms can yield about double the amount of milk when stimulating their breasts while pumping. Using a hands-free bra will allow for easier “Hands on Pumping.” Massaging and compressing your breasts while expressing will help you get the most out of your pumping session. It’s recommended to pump for a total of 15-20 min.

Try these settings:

Massage 70
Expression 54
Massage 70
Expression 38
*Vacuum should always be set to comfort, 5 min on each setting. 

4. How much milk should I be pumping?

The newborn belly is super tiny. Studies show exclusively breastfed babies from 1 to 6 months old will consume an average of 25 ounces per day. Depending on if you are pumping for a missed feeding or pumping in between feedings, you can expect to pump roughly 1.5 – 4 ounces. At first, when your production is ramping up, expect to pump less milk. It takes time and practice to get your body to respond to the pump, just like when you were learning to breastfeed. 

5. Clean. Store. Prepare.

The CDC recommends sterilizing all your pump parts for the very first time before initial use. There is no need to sterilize the tubing since it will never contact your milk or pump! Have a designated bin to wash your pump accessories after each use in warm soapy water and then air dry on a clean dish or paper towel. Using non-antibacterial soap is ideal to ensure you aren’t leaving any film on the flanges that can inhibit the natural secretion of your Montgomery glands on your areola.

Keep your liquid gold safe for baby by adhering to the CDC guidelines for storing and preparing expressed breast milk. 

Between breastfeeding, changing diapers, building baby gear, and managing all the visitors wanting to get a glimpse of your fresh bundle of joy (but seriously have a plan in place on handling visitors), you will have a full plate. Pumping really doesn’t have to be an additional item on your to-do list. During those sacred early weeks, concentrate on skin-to-skin and directly feeding your baby at the breast as much as possible.

Have more questions on how to get started with your Spectra Baby USA breast pump? Schedule a complimentary consultation with us here. 

We’re here for you and we support you!

To Preemie Nipple or Not to Preemie Nipple?

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by Lindsey S. #RealMomStory

It never ceases to amaze me how much conflicting information is “out there” about how much breastmilk a baby needs when away from their mama – and the ways to provide it.

Actually, you can look at it in so many different ways:

  • How much breastmilk a baby NEEDS.
  • How much breastmilk a baby COULD HAVE.
  • How much breastmilk a baby SHOULD HAVE.
  • And let’s be honest, there’s also – How much breastmilk the mama is comfortable/able to provide for baby.

It has to be said. Every baby is different. Needs are personal and situational. This is MY experience with MY children and breastmilk. If you have any questions about your child’s needs and your specific situation, reach out to an IBCLC on staff with Spectra Baby USA.

With my first two, I always followed the “rule” that 4ish ounces of breastmilk per bottle every three hours away from me was sufficient. But my middle guy’s daycare felt he needed more milk and so that meant buying the bigger bottles and giving him 5 ounces per feeding. 5 ounces of breastmilk in a bottle that can hold 8-9 ounces of breastmilk looks fairly ridiculous. Like something is missing. But hey, you have to think of it as “half full” not “half empty,” am I right?

With my newest little guy, I bought all new bottles, tried a few and ended up back with the same ones I used for the other guys. And bought all preemie nipples for the bottles, because that’s what I always knew to be true. Give 4 ounces of breastmilk every three hours and use the slowest flow nipple. His daycare thinks that because each bottle is taking around 45 minutes for him to finish and he is “looking for more milk” once the bottle is done that he a. needs a faster flow nipple and b. needs more milk per feeding. So what’s a girl to do?

Everyone always says that people who give breastfed babies bottles should pace feed. And so I always give that direction. But the truth is, I’m no bottle expert. All I do is fill them up in my nightly chemistry-like situation of pouring and preparing. And of course, I’m pretty awesome at pumping with my S1 at work all day.

The Senior IBCLC with Spectra Baby USA, Jenn Foster, shared an interesting article with me that questions whether babies should continue use of a preemie nipple and it was pretty eye-opening. From the article, it definitely sounds to me like Charlie is ready for a faster flow nipple. Oops.

So that leads to the next question – does he need more milk per feeding? Who knows? It’s all trial and error, just like so much of motherhood.

The positive in all of this is that there are so many options. And lots of days to try. And lots of variables – like teething, illness, fussiness, daycare vs. home, bottles vs. nursing, etc. I’m willing to try it and figure it out.

In this case, the conflicting information isn’t overwhelming me. It’s an awesome reminder that there isn’t always one answer when it comes to feeding our babies.

What’s your opinion? Are you slowest flow nipple until baby is done with bottles? Faster flow? More milk? I’d love to hear what you think.

About the author

Lindsey Schedler lives in New Jersey with her frat house of three boys (4 if you count her husband). By day, she’s a social and digital media strategist. For fun, and to connect with others, she shares about life as a working mama /fitness enthusiast and yummy food via @thindsey on Instagram. Lindsey is passionate about breastfeeding and pumps with her S1 or S2 when she’s away from her baby.

 

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.

4 Tricks on How To Maximize Output While Pumping

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Breast Shield Guide

Pumping breastmilk for your baby is a huge accomplishment, one that takes time, hard work and patience. Because you are already juggling the work of caring for a child, maintaining a household and possibly also work or school, why not make the most out of your pumping session. These four simple tricks will help you to maximize your output while pumping!

1. Take a deep breath! Relaxation is key when it comes to pumping. It is really hard to have a let-down of milk when you are tense. So find a comfortable place to pump, where you can feel most at ease. Check in with your body, take a deep breath in, and on your out breath, relax any places of tension that you are feeling in your body; your face, your shoulders, and -even your pelvic floor! Consider your comfort, use a cozy chair, sip of a cup of tea and put on some soothing background music.

2. Massage your breasts. Don’t be afraid to get your hands involved with your pumping, both before and during. Just a minute or two of massaging your breasts before a pumping session can help to stimulate your milk-producing glands, allowing for a faster letdown. Massage or use ‘breast compression’ during pumping also helps to stimulate let-downs and also has the added benefit of helping to fully drain all milk ducts. Consider wearing a hands-free nursing bra so that you can get both hands in on the massage. Gently, but firmly, massage and squeeze your breast starting from the armpit, working your way towards the nipples and as close to breast shields as you can get. You can even stop pumping in the middle of a session, or when you see the milk start to slow down, and massage your breasts for a minute or two and then go back to pumping. This helps to stimulate more let-downs!

3. Heat things up! Applying warmth to your breast will help to dilate the milk ducts, increase circulation and encourage milk to flow. You can run your breast shields under hot water before applying them to your breasts, or you can place a hot, moist, washcloth to your breasts for a minute or two before pumping.

4. Do your breast shields fit? Having the right size breast shield can make a huge difference in your pumping output. So how do you know if it’s a proper fit for you? During pumping, your nipples should move freely in the tunnel, there should be space around the nipple, and very little of the areola should be drawn up into the tunnel. If the flanges are too small, you may experience discomfort as the nipples rub up and down along the sides of the tunnel. If it’s too big, a large portion of the areola is drawn into the tunnel. Improperly fitted breast shields can really reduce the output. Breast Shields come in several sizes, 20mm (S), 24mm (M), 28mm (L) and 32mm (XL), so don’t be afraid to try out a different size.

If you have tried these tips for maximizing your output and you just aren’t getting what you think you should, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant. A consultant will continue to troubleshoot this topic with you and help to get you on track with your pumping goals.

Do you have additional tips and tricks?  Share them with us in the comments.

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