How to express milk

Expressing milk allows the continuity of breastfeeding in the event of returning to work or other activities during which the baby’s presence is not possible. Other reasons can also be lack of milk, prematurity or hospitalization of the baby. It’s never fun to express milk, we agree, but here is a complete guide on the reasons for expressing milk, the appropriate times and effective methods.

Why express milk?

1. Continuity of breastfeeding: Expressing milk allows mothers to continue breastfeeding even in their absence. This is particularly useful when returning to work.
2. Relief and prevention of engorgement in the absence of the baby: In cases of prolonged absence of the baby or excessive milk production, pumping helps prevent engorgement and associated complications such as mastitis. Expressing your milk stimulates production, so be careful of the opposite effect. The best remedy to relieve and prevent engorgement is to put your baby to the breast. Then you can also apply cold or manually pull to soften your breast.
3. Feeding premature or sick babies: For premature babies or those having difficulty breastfeeding, expressed milk can be given by bottle or other methods, ensuring they still receive essential nutrients.

When to start expressing milk?

1. If there are breastfeeding difficulties: the first days after birth. Or, for example, if the baby is premature or unable to breastfeed effectively. So you can start expressing milk from the first few hours to help establish a good milk supply. Please note, expressing your colostrum for the first 2-3 days is done by hand in a suitable container and of course with the support of the maternity ward. The breast pump arrives when the milk comes in! Not before!
2. For mothers whose breastfeeding is going smoothly, waiting around 6 weeks before starting to express milk is ideal. This allows breastfeeding to take place correctly. At this stage, milk production is well established and the mother is used to feeding her baby. It is also important to understand that prolactin receptors will multiply in the mammary gland thanks to the baby’s repeated feedings at the breast for up to 6 weeks. The more prolactin receptors there are, the more milk production will be established in the medium and long term. So when everything is going well, you should prioritize sucking the baby at the breast, certainly for the first 6 weeks.

Drawing methods

1. Manual expression: This method is simple and economical, ideal for colostrum or for occasional needs. It requires learning but can be practiced anywhere and at any time.
2. Manual breast pump: Practical and affordable, the manual breast pump is suitable for occasional use. However, it is not as effective as an electric breast pump in maintaining sufficient milk production.
3. Electric breast pump: Available in single or double models, electric breast pumps are recommended for regular use. The double breast pump is particularly effective in maximizing milk production and reducing pumping time.

Tips for an effective draw

1. Have good equipment: check that all your breast pump parts are still functional and that your breast pump is pumping properly. Then sit in a comfortable chair, in a pleasant place with all your equipment ready (breast pump, container, water, small tissue to possibly rub milk, etc.). Try to establish a routine.
2. A comfortable position and a relaxed environment are essential to feeling good and therefore promoting the secretion of oxytocin necessary for the milk ejection reflex. You can listen to calming music or look at photos of your baby, this can help.
3. Hygiene: Always wash your hands before and after each pumping session and clean all parts of the breast pump thoroughly to avoid infections. The ideal is to have enough rooms to only do the dishes once a day. It’s not the most fun part, we won’t hide it from you. This is something the co-parent can do. Between two sessions, do not hesitate to place your cups in a clean container and in the fridge. This way you save yourself cleaning.
4. Frequency and duration: it is recommended to express milk approximately 8 times a day, especially in the first days to establish production. Each session can last between 15 and 20 minutes, depending on the amount of milk to be expressed. We recommend always starting with a stimulation phase and then moving on to expression. If there is no more milk flowing, you can return to stimulation mode and so on. The best intensity for you is the one just below the intensity that gives you pain. You can also test other curves on your breast pump to find the one that suits you best.
5. Choosing breast shield size: Make sure the breast shield is the right size to avoid pain and maximize pumping effectiveness. Breast shields that are too large or too small can cause injury or reduce the effectiveness of pulling.

Conclusion

Expressing milk can make life much easier for breastfeeding mothers. By choosing the right method and following effective practices, you can ensure continuous, nutritious nutrition for your baby while giving yourself flexibility in your daily life. Consult a lactation consultant or your midwife for personalized help and advice. You can also send us a message if you have any questions about the breast pump.