expressing
Once breastfeeding is established, you may want to try to introducing a bottle too, using expressed milk or formula. Sharing the duties is a great way to involve your partner
what do I need?
If you want to express, it’s wise to buy a breast pump. There are
two types: manual pumps, which are great for occasional
expressing to give relief; and electric or battery-operated pumps,
which are ideal for more regular expressing. Whether you’re
using expressed milk or formula, you’ll need bottles, teats and a
steriliser – warm milk is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria,
which can cause tummy upsets in babies. You can choose
between a steriliser that uses cold water and sterilising tablets or
liquid, or an electric steam steriliser or microwave steriliser. Make
sure that whatever you choose is big enough for your breast
pump equipment as well as bottles and teats.
Expressed milk can be kept in a sterile lidded container or storage
bag for:
•
Up to six hours (max) at room temperature (under 25°C or 77°F)
•
Three days in the fridge (at 5°C to 10°C)
•
Eight days in the fridge at 0°C to 4°C
•
For six months in a freezer at -18°C or lower.
Store the milk in the back of the fridge or freezer – items kept at the
front are more susceptible to changing temperatures when you
open the door – and remember to label and date each container.
To defrost frozen milk, place the container under cool, then warm
running water, or ideally let it thaw in the fridge.
Your first attempts may be pretty unproductive (this is quite normal, and with
practice it will get easier). Most mums have more milk in the mornings, but
whenever you try it, make sure you’re relaxed and comfortable. Having a warm
bath beforehand can help to get your milk flowing. You can also try expressing
from one breast while your baby feeds from the other, so she stimulates your
let-down reflex. If you’re using an electric or battery pump, start on the lowest
setting until you get used to the suction.