Pumping tips and tricks for the awesome working mum

Useful pumping tips for the awesome working mum

Pumping is truly an art form. Firstly, congrats mum - you’re one who packs up her pump when you head to work so your baby can continue to have the very best nourishment.

You may face some 'downsides' to this acitivity - like having to deal with the rude stares and remarks when someone catches you pumping in the office, even though you're already in a private room. Here's how you can make it work at work.

Take advantage of your company's flexible work arrangement policy

Great if your company practices this. But if not, consider working from home or opting for part-time work instead. This way you can breastfeed at your own leisure at home and still earn a living, without feeling an ounce of guilt!

Find a community in which you can relate to

If you're fortunate, there will be other mums in the office who are also expressing. Create or join a support group so you can share your experiences with them. Tips can be shared through these gatherings which will make your whole pumping journey manageable.

Increase production before coming to work

At least one or two weeks before starting work again, pump several times a day in addition to breastfeeding. If it's too much for you, then do it at least once a day, so your body will get used to it once you actually go back to work. Your body will automatically adjust to the routine and in turn, production increases.

Use the bottle

Try to establish the use of the bottle when your baby is between four and six weeks old. Any later could result in the baby resisting the bottle, adding to the problems of when you're heading back to work.

Choose an appropriate breast pump

There are a variety of pumps available that cater to different preferences. It is important to find a pump that is suitable for you and also your pumping schedule. Having said that, double-sided and electric pumps are highly recommended as they are lightweight and efficient.

Don't get a used pump

Besides the obvious fact that it carries multiple risks, most internal pump parts cannot be removed, cleaned or replaced. This means that the disease organisms from the breast milk of an infected mum can be transmitted to the next pump user. We have also heard of cases of blood contamination.

Additionally, breast pump motors become less efficient over time. A secondhand pump may not provide adequate stimulation to maintain milk supply.

Prepare the milk before coming to work

Keeping a fair amount of frozen expressed milk in the fridge should be enough to assure you that your baby's meals are well taken care of. It also releases the pressure of having to pump at work. This way you can also say no to dealing with low pumping supply!

Plan your pumping schedule

It is important to discuss the working schedule with your boss as soon as you're pregnant or before returning to work after your maternity leave. Explain to your boss how long the pumping will approximately take and how you'll fit it into your work schedule. There's no need to feel 'bad' about what you're doing, and your colleagues should all understand and be supportive of your task at hand.

If your office doesn't come with a nursing room, ask if you can have a private room for your pumping. It is important that you are comfortable.

Properly store milk

And if you're going to plan your pumping schedule, do take note that it is recommended to store the milk in 50ml amounts. This will result in easy thawing and lesser wastage.

Pump according to your baby's intake

This is where the meal timings play a part. Determine how much breast milk your baby will require while you're away. From the moment your kid starts breastfeeding, his daily requirement will not change until he is six months old.

Your baby’s nutritional needs are unique, so take note of his feeding cues.

Mummies, are these tips helpful? Share your thoughts with us!

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