Breastfeeding and pumping can be an exciting and challenging part of motherhood, especially when you're just starting out. At home, without the direct support of professionals, it can feel extra overwhelming. But don't worry, we are ready for you!
In this article we share useful tips and tricks to make your breastfeeding and pumping journey smoother. From the best techniques to handy tools and handy 'do's and don'ts'—we have it all for you. Let's work together to make this special time a lot more pleasant and successful. Read on and discover how you can best deal with breastfeeding and pumping at home.
Benefits for mother and child
There are countless benefits for both mother and child when you breastfeed at home. For mothers Breastfeeding helps you recover faster after childbirth and reduces the risk of health problems such as breast and ovarian cancer. For babies Breastfeeding means that they receive essential nutrients and antibodies that strengthen their immune system. In addition, pumping stimulates milk production, which guarantees a constant supply of breast milk, even at times when direct feeding is not possible. It also gives mothers the flexibility to smoothly combine work and care.
In addition, breastfeeding strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child. Midwives Lelystad emphasizes that this time is invaluable. Moments together such as feedings in the morning or before bedtime. This close, physical proximity provides a sense of security and comfort for the baby. This creates an undeniable connection that benefits both mother and child. In addition, breastfeeding helps regulate children's weight, which reduces the risk of obesity later in life. In short, breastfeeding and pumping are valuable practices for a healthy start.
| Advantages | For Mother | For Child |
|---|---|---|
| Health | Reduces risk of cancer | Strengthened immune system |
| Recovery | Faster postnatal recovery | Essential nutrients |
| Emotional bond | Strengthens mother-child bond | Feels safe and comfortable |
Care of the breasts
-
- Ensure regularity: Feed your baby at fixed times to stimulate milk production.
-
- Relaxation: Provide a calm environment without stress.
-
- Grade pressure: Adjust the suction of a pump according to what is comfortable for you.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Soft Breast Compresses | Usetheseto reduce pain and swelling. |
| Careful Massage | Helps stimulate milk production and relieve constipation. |
Breastfeeding (Composition of breast milk)
-
- Protein: important for the growth and repair of body cells.
-
- Fats: good for brain development and energy reserves.
-
- Carbohydrates: mainly lactose, essential for energy supply.
In addition, the composition of breast milk is constantly changing to meet the changing needs of your baby. In the first days after birth, for example, colostrum contains many antibodies that help build up your baby's immunity. That's why it's important to pay attention to your diet and health, because your body knows exactly what your baby needs!
Connecting for the first time
Congratulations with your little miracle! During your first breastfeeding session, it is normal to feel a little unsure. Make sure you have a quiet and comfortable place to sit. Keep in mind that both you and your baby need to learn. Patience It is now your best friend. Start by holding your baby close to you so he or she can find the nipple. Pay attention to your baby's hunger cues, such as opening the mouth or searching movements. A good latch ensures effective nutrition and prevents sore nipples.
-
- Concern for a nice, soft environment.
-
- Usage pillows to support your arms and back.
-
- Try different positions to see which one works best.
-
- Let Make sure your baby takes the wide areola in his mouth, not just the nipple.
If your baby is latched on properly, the sucking will be deep and slow, with a pause in between. During feeding, stay alert for signs that your baby is feeling well. If necessary, you can apply light pressure to your breast to stimulate milk flow. Remember to alternate between both breasts regularly to promote even milk production.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Feel calm and relaxed |
| Health | Supports your baby's immune system |
| Band | Foster strong bonding between mother and child |
Milk production is picking up
- Hydration: Drink enough water to support your body.
- Feeding schedule: Regular feeding helps to stabilize milk production, we recommend doing this every 3 hours
- Peace: Get enough sleep and relaxation.
Breastfeeding can sometimes be challenging, especially if you have to pump at home. Fortunately, there are several ways to make this go smoothly. Always use a clean and hygienic device. Also try different modes and suction power settings to discover what is most effective and comfortable for you. It can be useful to keep a timetable so that you can monitor the progress of your milk production and adjust it in time.
| Inventory management tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage bags | Make sure you have enough bags to store milk. |
| Labels | Write down the date and time on each bag. |
| Cooling elements | Use for transportation if necessary. |
Breastfeeding on demand
-
- Keep your baby close to youFor example, by using a baby carrier or cloth.
-
- Get to know the hunger signals from your baby, such as sucking their hands or smacking sounds.
-
- Provide a comfortable feeding environment; for example, create a quiet corner with soft pillows.
| Tip | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Use a sling | Keep your baby close, always ready to feed |
| Recognize hunger signals | Prevents crying fits, ensures smooth feeding sessions |
| Create a quiet corner | More relaxation and focus for both mother and baby |
Is my baby getting enough breast milk?
As a new parent, it can be quite stressful wondering if your baby is getting enough nutrition. Fortunately, there are some clear signs to check whether your little one is drinking enough milk. For example, pay close attention to wet diapers — a healthy baby has about six to eight wet diapers per day. Additionally, if your breasts feel less firm after each feeding, that's a sign that your baby is actually drinking milk.
In addition to wet diapers, there are more indicators you can pay attention to. A satisfied baby will be relaxed and satisfied after feeding. In addition, your baby's growth can reassure you; regular weight gain is a positive signal that your breastfeeding is effective. Here's a simple schedule to keep on hand:
| Age | Number of feedings per day |
|---|---|
| 0-2 months | 8-12 times |
| 3-5 months | 7-9 times |
| 6+ months | 6-8 times |
If you notice that you are feeding your baby less often or changing diapers, this may be a reason to come and visit us. We are here to help and support you by providing personal advice and reassurance so that you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your baby.
Advice on construction
-
- Create a relaxing environment: Provide a quiet space free of distractions.
-
- Use your senses: Listen to soothing music or try aromatherapy.
-
- Posture and comfort: Experiment with feeding positions and use pillows for support.
-
- Hydration: Drink enough water before and during feeding or pumping.
In addition, it is crucial to keep your equipment clean. Hygiene is essential. Use handy accessories such as a breast pump bra to make pumping hands-free. Also consider using a timer to ensure your pumping session is not too long or too short. And do not forget: feel free to ask for help or advice from a lactation consultant if you run into something. They can provide you with personal tips and guidance.
| Item | Benefit | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Breast pump bra | Hands-free pumping | Choose a comfortable size |
| Nursing pillow | Better support | Explore different shapes |
| Hydration | Improved milk production | Keep a bottle of water handy |
Your baby is lying well at the breast when:
When your baby is well at the breast, it's all about comfort and effectiveness. There are different signals what you can pay attention to:
-
- Your baby has a wide, full mouth with the lips curled outward.
-
- Your baby's chin touches your chest and the nose remains free.
-
- You notice that there is no pain during feeding.
-
- You hear your baby swallowing regularly.
If you recognize these signs, you know that feeding is going smoothly. Every mother wants the best for her little one and these are simple signs to make sure you're on the right track.
| Signs of successful breastfeeding | |
|---|---|
| Full mouth | Wide opening with lips curled outward |
| Chin touches chest | Nose remains free |
| No pain | Comfortable feeling during feeding |
| Swallowing regularly | Calm breathing |
By paying attention to these points, you will ensure a pleasant and effective nutritional session. Don't forget to regularly check whether everything is still going well!
Take the baby off the breast
Weaning off breastfeeding can sometimes be a challenge, but with the right approach it goes smoothly. For example, start by gradually shortening feeding sessions and bid alternatives such as a hug or game. First, try to eliminate the least important food of the day, such as the afternoon meal. Joint substitutes such as bottle feeding or a healthy snack for older babies.
-
- Patience: Give your baby time to get used to the change.
-
- Consolation: Stay close to soothe your baby during the phasing out.
-
- Fixed ritual: Introduce a new, appropriate routine for non-breastfeeding moments.
Find out what works best for you and your little one by experimenting. Try different methods, such as offering a favorite hug or song during the transition. Plus, it helps your baby at the process involve them by explaining this calmly when they are of an age for this.
| Phase | Action |
|---|---|
| Initial phase | Shorten feedings and add alternatives |
| Middle phase | Delete the least important foods |
| Final phase | Introduce a fixed ritual for distraction |
Bee Midwives Lelystad we are always ready to support you in this special process. Don't hesitate to contact us for personal advice.
Supplementary feeding?
It can sometimes happen that despite all your efforts, your baby still needs extra nutrition in addition to breastfeeding. This can be for various reasons, such as low milk production or slow weight gain. There are several ways toadminister this extra nutrition without disrupting breastfeeding. One of the most commonly used methods is to use a feeding tube or a special bottle with a narrow teat. These aids can help your baby get the extra nutrition he or she needs while maintaining the sucking pattern on the chest.
In addition, it may be useful to have one nutrition plan to keep up. Here you can keep track of exactly how much and how often your baby gets extra food. This makes it easier to recognize patterns and make adjustments where necessary. Table 1 gives an example of what such a scheme might look like:
| Time | Number of ml | Remark |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | 30 ml | Everything finished |
| 12:00 | 20 ml | Fell into sleep |
| 16:00 | 25 ml | Restless after feeding |
Finally, always listen to your own feelings and don't be afraid to ask for help. At Midwives Lelystad we are happy to help you with tailor-made advice so that you and your baby can make the best start.
Supplementary feeding methods
As young parents, feeding your baby can sometimes be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several methods of complementary feeding that can make this task a lot easier. To start, consider power pumping, a technique in which you use short and frequent pumping sessions. This allows you to effectively increase your milk production without putting too much pressure on your breasts. Moreover, it is expressing with a manual pump useful for mothers who are on the road or need a discreet solution at work.
In addition to these techniques, there are also various aids that make supplementary feeding easier. Consider, for example, the so-called nutritional aid set. This set consists of a bottle with breast milk and a thin tube that you attach to your nipple, so that your baby receives breastfeeding and supplementary feeding at the same time. Furthermore, you can consider using one breastfeeding pillow, so you can keep yourself and your baby in a comfortable position while feeding.
| Supplementary feeding method | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Power Pumping | Increases milk production |
| Manual Flask | Discreet and portable |
| Feeding aid set | Combination feeding possible |
Yourownnutrition, general advice
-
- Fresh fruit and vegetables
-
- Whole grains such as oatmeal or quinoa
-
- Lean proteins such as chicken, fish and legumes
Are you allergic or do you have specific dietary requirements? Then it is smart to consult with a dietician or your midwife. This way you can be sure that you get everything you need. Don't forget that rest is just as important as nutrition. Take it and listen to your body!
Use of medicines and stimulants
When breastfeeding and pumping at home, it is important to be careful with the use of medicines and stimulants. Medicines can pass to your baby through breast milk. Always discuss with you first midwife or GP before you take medications. In addition, there are guidelines for the use of caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine in large quantities can cause overstimulation in your baby, while alcohol can reduce milk production and can leak into your baby, which is harmful to the baby. It is therefore recommended to consume caffeine and alcohol in moderation.
-
- Caffeine: limit your intake to a maximum of 200 mg per day (about two cups of coffee).
-
- Alcohol: Do not drink more than one glass per day and wait at least two to three hours after consumption before breastfeeding again.
Simple guidelines for medication use during lactation:
| Medicine | Safety | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol | Safe | May be used |
| Ibuprofen | Safe | May be used |
| Antibiotics | Depending on the species | Contact your GP |
What is pumping and when is pumping useful?
Pumping, or expressing breast milk, is a technique in which you extract milk from your breasts with a pumping device. It can be useful in various situations, such as when you go back to work, want to have a night out, or have problems with breastfeeding. By pumping, you can ensure that your baby still gets the benefits of breast milk, even when you're not physically there. It can also be a solution if your baby has difficulty latching or if you have excessive milk production.
In addition, pumping can be useful to maintain your milk production, especially if you notice that your breasts are not completely emptied during feeding. This can help prevent blockages and infections such as mastitis. Pumping can also give you more freedom of movement, since you are not dependent on your baby's feedings. This allows you to adapt better to unexpected situations and enjoy some extra rest.
-
- When building up a supply of milk - useful when returning to work
-
- In case of problems with taking action – when breastfeeding is difficult
-
- In case of overstimulation - to regulate milk production
| Situation | Advantage of pumping |
|---|---|
| Resumption of work | Build inventory |
| Difficulty catching on | Avoid powdered milk |
| Excessive milk production | Relief and balance |
Pumping schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 06:00 | Feeding & Pumping |
| 09:00 | Pumping |
| 12:00 | Pumping |
| 15:00 | Pumping |
| 18:00 | Feeding & Pumping |
| 21:00 | Pumping |
-
- Tip: Keep a logbook to keep an overview.
-
- Tip: Drink enough water and eat healthy.
-
- Tip: Provide a comfortable and quiet pumping room.
Hygiene
When breastfeeding and expressing milk at home, cleanliness plays a crucial role. Make sure you always wash your hands before every feeding or pumping. Additionally, always keep your pumping equipment and bottles clean and sterile. Clean them thoroughly after each use with hot water and soap and allow to air dry on a clean cloth. Don't forget to regularly clean the surfaces where you pump.
-
- Wash your hands thoroughly: before and after each feeding or pumping.
-
- Sterilize materials: pump parts and bottles after each use.
-
- Use clean cloths: for dryingwashed parts.
It is also important to store your pump set correctly. Store your pumping system in a closed, clean container when not in use. This prevents bacteria or dust from accumulating. You may also consider having additional pumping systems in case one set fails. Here is a handy table with tips for storing pumping sets:
| Place | Storage method |
|---|---|
| Kitchen cabinet | In a closed box |
| Bedroom | On a clean shelf |
| Refrigerator | In a sealed bag |
This way you can ensure a safe and hygienic environment for you and your baby. This makes breastfeeding and pumping at home a lot more pleasant and easier!
Storing breast milk
- Make sure the freezer is at -18°C or lower.
- Store milk in the back of the refrigerator, never in the door.
- Label all containers with date and time stamp.
- Use special breast milk bags or BPA-free containers.
Here's a simple table to help you remember the shelf life of breast milk:
| Storage location | Shelf life |
|---|---|
| Room temperature | 4 hours |
| Refrigerator (not in the door!): maximum 4° C | 5 days |
| Deep freezer -18° C | 6 months |
Guidelines for thawing breast milk
Properly thawing breast milk is crucial to maintain its nutritional value and safety. Important to knowNever use a microwave for this process. This can cause essential nutrients to be lost. Ideally, you let the milk thaw slowly in the refrigerator. This usually takes about 12 hours. If you need milk more quickly, place the bottle in a bowl of warm (not hot) water. NB: Never shake the bottle hard, but move it gently to mix the milk evenly.
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your breast milk stays safe:
-
- Never reprocess milk once it has thawed.
-
- Keep track: write the date of freezing on the bottle.
-
- Do not pour fresh milk into already frozen milk.
-
- Always check the temperature before giving it to your baby.
Storage times:
| Storage method | Shelf life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (4°C) | Up to 24 hours |
| Refrigerator door | Until 12 noon |
| Room (20°C) | Maximum 4 hours |
Guidelines for warming breast milk
To warm breast milk, you can choose the method that suits you best and that is safe for your baby. Avoid using the microwave as this can damage the nutrients in the milk. A better way is to heat the milk in a pan of warm water or in a bottle warmer. Make sure that the milk never gets warmer than 37 degrees Celsius, to prevent burning of your little one's gums or tongue. You can use a food thermometer to check the temperature of the milk.
In addition to carefully heating the milk, it is important to take the following tips into account:
-
- Stir the milk: After you have heatedthe milk, stir it well to avoid any hot spots.
-
- Test the temperature: Drop a little milk on the inside of your wrist to check if the temperature is right.
-
- Storage methods: Warmed breast milk should be used within 2 hours of reheating. Do not store leftovers again.
| Method | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Bottle warmer | 5-10 min | 37°C |
| Pan with warm water | 5-10 mins | 37°C |
By following these steps, you can feed your baby safely and enjoy these precious moments. At Midwives Lelystad we are always there for you with even more practical tips and advice.
Transporting breastfeeding
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Cooler bag | With sufficient cooling elements for longer trips. |
| Storage bags | Leak resistant and BPA free for safe storage. |
| Portable breast pump | Handy for on the road and during long days. |
Pumping after discharge from the hospital
After being discharged from the hospital, establishing a successful pumping routine at home can be a challenge. First of all, create a comfortable and calm environment for both you and the baby. Think of a place with few distractions and preferably something that relaxes you, such as soft music or a hot drink. Usage a good butt; for example, we recommend a double electric breast pump because it makes pumping more efficient. Also make sure you have all the necessary accessories at hand, such as pump attachments, milk bottles and disinfection pads. All this contributes to a successful and stress-free pumping session.
In addition, timetables persist crucial. Try to maintain fixed times for pumping to maintain your milk production. In the beginning this may be every 2-3 hours, but you may also need to pump at night to stimulate your milk production. Create a schedule that fits into your daily routine and communicate it with your partner or family so that everyone is on the same page. Remember to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. A well-planned lifestyle will certainly help you make it effective and less stressful.
| Supplies | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Double electric breast pump | More efficient pumping |
| Relaxing music | Quiet atmosphere |
| Pump attachments | Hygiene and comfort |
| Milk bottles | Convenience of storage |
Pumping at work
When you return to work and breastfeed, pumping in theworkplace can be a challenge. At Midwives Lelystad we understand this like no other. That's why we have some tips to make things run smoothly:
-
- Arrange a quiet space: A quiet and private space is essential for comfortable pumping. Consult with your employer about a suitable location.
-
- Set up a schedule : Try to schedule fixed times for pumping and communicate this with your colleagues so that they can also take this into account.
-
- Invest in a good pump: An efficient, portable pump can make a big difference. It's worth the investment for both your convenience and that of your baby. From experience we know that good preparation is important. Don't forget to bring a cooler bag to keep the milk safe. In addition, it can be useful to have additional accessories such as pumping wipes and spare parts within reach. Below is a short checklist to help:
Supplies Why Pumping device Essential for efficient pumping Cooler bag To keep the milk fresh Breastfeeding wipes For hygiene and convenience Additional parts For emergencies
- Invest in a good pump: An efficient, portable pump can make a big difference. It's worth the investment for both your convenience and that of your baby. From experience we know that good preparation is important. Don't forget to bring a cooler bag to keep the milk safe. In addition, it can be useful to have additional accessories such as pumping wipes and spare parts within reach. Below is a short checklist to help:
Vitamins K and D
When you are breastfeeding, it is important to get enough, both for yourself and your baby. Vitamin K is of crucial importance for the blood clotting of your little one, while vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium and the development of strong bones. It is advisable to give breastfed babies extra vitamin K and D from birth. This is because breast milk naturally contains low amounts of these vitamins. You can buy multivitamin drops that are specially formulated for newborns. Don't forget to give these vitamin supplements daily as consistency is essential for your baby's good health.
Here are some helpful tips to ensure that both you and your baby get enough vitamins:
-
- Use bottles with built-in droppers for accurate dosing.
-
- Do some research which brands are recommended by your midwife.
-
- Don't forget yourself Treat yourself to a healthy diet rich in vitamin D, such as oily fish and eggs.
In addition, it is important to occasionally have a nice chat with other breastfeeding mothers. Sharing experiences can help make the process easier and more enjoyable.
| Vitamin | Interest |
|---|---|
| Vitamin K | Blood clotting |
| Vitamin D | Bone development |
Lactation consultants and breastfeeding organizations
At Midwives Lelystad we know how essential support is lactation consultants and breastfeeding organizations can be during your breastfeeding period. These professionals have a wealth of knowledge and are trained to guide you and your baby through this important phase. Lactation consultants can help you with practical tips on how to properly latch your baby and feeding techniques. can improve and address any problems such as cracked nipples or insufficient milk production. In addition, they also provide emotional support and can help you build self-confidence as a new parent.
In addition to the benefits of personal guidance, breastfeeding organizations such as La Leche League and Breastfeeding Naturally are great resources for additional information and support. These organizations organize regularly walk-in consultation hours and information evenings where you can come into contact with other mothers and share experiences. Additionally, they provide online resources such as manuals, videos, and forums. Here are some helpful links and contact information for reliable breastfeeding organizations:
| Organization | Website | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| La Leche League | lalecheleague.nl | info@lalecheleague.nl |
| Breastfeeding Naturally | Breastfeedingnatural.nl | info@borstvoedingnatuurlijk.nl |
Resume
That's it, our handy tips for breastfeeding and pumping at home! We hope that these tips will help you make your breastfeeding journey a little easier and more relaxing. Remember that every mother and baby are unique,so it's completely okay to find your own way through this process.
Please continue to enjoy this special time!
English 
Dutch 
Polish 
Turkish