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Exclusive pumping (EPing)? Here's what you need to know if you plan on pumping breast milk exclusively without breastfeeding. Back to Top In This Article
"How are you feeding your baby?" This question is typically followed by two checkboxes: one for breastfeeding, one for formula-feeding. If you are an exclusively pumping mom, this either-or option can leave you feeling unsupported, confused and hopefully not in tears. This underrecognized type of breastfeeding does not get the credit and support it deserves. Here's why you might exclusively pump and all about how to EP successfully. What is exclusive pumping?Exclusive pumping (also referred to as "EPing") means that you make the choice to give your baby only breast milk that you express or pump. If you think that sounds time-intensive, it is. Babies are fed breast milk by bottle, NG tube or other means, rather than directly at the breast. It is a viable option for many mothers and requires strength, discipline and dedication. Even if your baby does not "breast" feed, your milk is still important nutrition for your baby. Why you might choose to exclusively pumpHow you choose to feed your baby is a personal choice and one you should never feel guilty about — especially if you are exclusively pumping. While you may be the only one in your family or friend circle sneaking away to pump every few hours, know you aren’t alone.
How much milk should you be producing when exclusively pumping?Your baby will likely take in an average of 25 to 35 ounces of milk per day, depending upon her needs. If your milk supply drops, you'll need to increase the number of times you pump. Continue Reading Below Read This NextThe body makes milk around the clock because babies are designed to nurse frequently. It’s important to remember every woman is different, though. Some can pump five times a day and maintain a full supply (i.e., enough to make babies happy and gain weight) while others need to pump nine or 10 times a day. It all depends upon how much milk you store in your breasts. Always call your pediatrician with any questions or concerns specific to you and your baby. Can I exclusively pump as soon as my baby is born?Yes! If you know you will go this route ahead of time, there are some steps to take to ensure you produce the amount of milk your baby needs to thrive.
Exclusive pumping scheduleMoms who pump exclusively can follow whatever schedule works for them if they can establish their full milk supply (up to 25 to 35 ounces a day on average). If you have a Type A personality, daily (and nightly) pumping, feeding and cleaning schedules may add some order to your new parenting chaos. The struggle is real! Things to keep in mind when it comes to schedules:
Exclusive pumping tips
Maybe you don’t have a portrait of you and your babe nursing at the breast à la Leonardo da Vinci’s Madonna and Child. Who cares? Pumping is not only beautiful, it shows you are one strong and determined parent! From the What to Expect editorial team and Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When You're Expecting. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial policy.
Was this article helpful? What Our Community Is Talking AboutJoin inHow do I get more milk when pumping strictly?Increase pumping frequency
Pumping more often can help stimulate breasts to produce more milk. Moms can try pumping both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours for 48-72 hours. Then moms can return to their normal pumping routine. Pumping for longer than 30 minutes may not be beneficial.
Does exclusively pumping decrease milk supply?Frequent pumping stimulates the production of breast milk. While your child is a newborn, try to pump every two to three hours. As your child grows, you can usually pump less often. However, if you're struggling with low milk supply, pumping more often can increase milk production.
How do I get the most out of exclusively pumping?10 Exclusively Pumping Tips. Use a hands-free setup. ... . Make sure that you have the correct flange size. ... . Start out pumping every 2-3 hours, and drop sessions later. ... . Pump for 120 minutes per day. ... . Feed fresh milk when you can. ... . Stick to your schedule as best you can. ... . Multi-task pumping with feeding when you can. ... . Figure out mobility.. How do you build milk stash when exclusively pumping?Stick to a schedule. Exclusively pumping. Pump for 10-15 minutes at 2-3 hour intervals.. Pumping for work/nursing at home. Pump three times daily AFTER you've nursed your baby. Once back at work, pumping at 2-3 hour intervals. Nurse on demand at home.. Increasing your supply. Pump once a day AFTER you've nursed your baby.. |