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AV Baby content is for information only. If you are at all worried about your baby, please seek the advice of your midwife, doctor or paediatrician.

Basics For Buying And Using A Breast Pump

For busy mothers, breast pumps offer convenience and the peace of mind that comes from knowing they're providing for their child as only a mother can. For working mothers who are unable to meet the schedule-busting feeding demands of their child, they can use a breast pump to save time while ensuring their baby receives essential nutrients. But, there are many different types of pumps. Some are manual while others are powered by batteries. Some cost $150 while others may retail for nearly $400. And once you've invested in a pump that is right for you and your child, using it can present its own challenges.

Below, we'll describe the different types of breast pumps that are popular among mothers. Then, we'll explain how you can use your pump to provide the milk your baby needs.

Types Of Breast Pumps

There are 3 main types of pumps: manual, battery-powered and electric. The least expensive are manual models. Because manual pumps don't rely upon motorized parts, they rarely break. That being said, they can often be tiring to use. Battery-powered breast pumps have largely fallen out of favor. While they offer high portability, they suck much more slowly than a baby. As a result, it's not uncommon for a mother's milk supply to decline after prolonged use.

Electric pumps are especially popular among women who have returned to their jobs. They mirror the sucking pattern of a baby much more closely than a battery-powered pump. Plus, they're designed to pump milk from both breasts simultaneously. The main drawback is that electric pumps are expensive.

How To Use Your Breast Pump

First, allow your body to grow accustomed to using your pump. If you're currently nursing your child (without using a pump) and plan to return to your job, start several days before returning to work. Not only will this allow you to get used to feeling of the pump, you can store an extra supply of milk for emergencies.

Second, schedule your pumping. If you use your breast pump sporadically (or worse, skip pumping sessions), your body can respond by changing your milk supply. Set a time each day (or several times throughout the day) during which you intend to pump. Third, if you're having difficulty coping with the feeling of not nursing your baby naturally, use pictures of your baby while pumping. Doing so will help you to relax and focus on your child.

A Mother's Love

Often, it's not possible to nurse your child. The reasons may include time constraints, physical sensitivity, or even a sick baby who in unable to feed. In each case, a breast pump can be a valuable tool that allows you to provide your baby with natural milk. Plus, they can give a father an opportunity to bond with his infant through feeding.

If your budget allows, consider investing in an electric breast pump. Then, start early (if you're returning to your job), schedule regular daily sessions and use pictures of your baby to help you focus while pumping. A mother's love for her baby shouldn't be restricted by lack of time. Your breast pump provides a channel through which you can express that love.

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Stu Foster writes exclusively for Express Yourself Mums.

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