Expressing milk supports mothers to continue breastfeeding when they are absent, whether for work, study or other obligations. One of the choices to make is to decide between single pumping (one breast at a time) or double pumping (both breasts at the same time). This is a choice in which your IBCLC or midwife can support you. She will choose the best solution based on your situation.
This article explores the benefits and considerations of both options to help you make the best choice for your situation.
Why express milk?
Expressing milk allows you to maintain milk production, create a reserve of milk for when you are absent, and continue to feed your baby with breast milk in all circumstances. It can also be essential for stimulating and increasing milk production if there is a lack of milk or difficulty breastfeeding.
Simple draw: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Simplicity: The simple draw is often easier for new mothers. It’s easier to focus on one breast at a time, especially early in breastfeeding. This allows you to become familiar with the breast pump.
- Less material: Fewer parts to clean and sterilize, which can be an advantage in terms of simplicity and time management.
Disadvantages:
- Time: The single draw takes longer, approximately 30 to 40 minutes to draw from both breasts separately, compared to 15 minutes for the double draw.
- Less effective stimulation: Milk production may be less well stimulated than with double pumping, which can be crucial for maintaining or increasing lactation.
Double draw: advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Saves time: Double pumping allows you to express milk from both breasts at the same time, thus reducing by half the time needed for each pumping session.
- Better stimulation: Pumping both breasts simultaneously stimulates greater milk production and increases levels of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production.
- Efficiency: Double pumping is particularly effective for mothers who have to pump frequently, such as those whose babies are in neonatal care or who have to return to work quickly or who are short of milk for medical reasons or because their baby has difficulty feeding. suction.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Double electric breast pumps are generally more expensive than single or manual breast pumps.
- Complexity: More parts to clean and sterilize, which can represent an additional constraint. It can sometimes be a little more scary to use it.
Choose the method that suits you
To choose, we strongly recommend that you discuss it with your midwife or IBCLC. Don’t rush into your first breast pump! Take advantage of a session with your midwife or IBCLC to make the decision together. This will prevent you from spending unnecessarily. Also note that it is possible in certain stores to test breast pumps. Do not hesitate to contact us for the list.
The decision will depend on:
Your situation:
- If you need to express your milk occasionally, a simple manual or electric breast pump may be sufficient. For regular or intensive use, a double electric breast pump is recommended.
- Consider how long you will be separated from your baby and how often you will need to express milk. Mothers who work full time or have babies in the hospital should benefit from a double breast pump with the efficiency of a hospital grade breast pump, like Lileo.
Your budget:
- Double breast pumps are more expensive, but there are rental options for hospital grade breast pumps, which can be an economical alternative for short to medium term use. If you have a small budget, it is also possible to rent one from the mutual, free of charge.
Comfort and personal preference:
- Every mother is different, and what works for one may not work for another. With the recommendations of a professional you should find the shoe that suits you.
Conclusion
The choice between single draw and double draw depends on many factors, including the frequency required, your personal situation, and your budget. Double pumping offers significant benefits in terms of saving time and stimulating milk production, while single pumping may be more practical for occasional use. Whatever you decide, make sure you have the right support and information to express your milk effectively and comfortably.
