Expressions
thoughts and advice on breastfeeding

1. Most mothers reported the best success with using an electric double pump, which allows you to pump both breasts simultaneously. Double pumps decrease the time spent pumping, and increase the milk supply. Medela and Ameda Egnall make hospital (heavy-duty) pumps and lighter weight rental units. Medela's rental units are the Lactina Plus (one speed, different suction settings) and Lactina Select (variable speed and suction). Pumps can be rented from lactation consultants. The cost/mo of the pump will decrease with a longer rental ($1 to $3/day), and some insurance companies will cover the cost of the pump if breastmilk is "prescribed" by a physician. Another pump mentioned was the Medela Pump In Style, ($200 to buy) which works quite well, however, not as well as the heavier pumps.

2. A few mothers were able to express manually. If you can get proper training for this method, it can be fast and convenient. Manual expression is described in _The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding_ by La Leche League. Even if you do not end up expressing manually, it is worthwhile to learn how to massage your breasts to maximize emptying of milk ducts.

3. How to pump. Most mothers learn from the nursing staff. If you don't get the help you need, ask and keep asking! La Leche League and other nursing mothers groups can be good resources, but some leaders are not familiar with preemies. Some lactation consultants can be supportive and helpful and others are not.

"It was hard at first before my milk flowed naturally from being so engorged. But even when I pumped my early milk, they (the nurses) applauded me and encouraged me. I was so motivated by the time I left the hospital that I was so determined to continue no matter what the cost. " (Kathy Lundberg, mother of 28 weeker)

"I felt very pressured to pump by the lactation consultant. I think they need a sensitivity training course -- they were so gung-ho about pumping that they forget how hard it is. They weren't very good about getting to you immediately, it was usually one week after the baby was born" (Kerry, mother of 31 weeker)

"The worst suggestion, look at a picture -- I'm sorry but Zoe looked like an early spider monkey full of tubes" (Amy, mother of )

"I massaged while pumping, and ALWAYS drank 2 glasses of light lemonade. Listen to the radio, read magazines, and try not to compare the amount of milk to the other moms!" (Inkan, mother of 30 weeker)

"Warm compresses or a hot shower, followed by massage" (Mary, mother of 32 weeker)

"Watch TV or talk on the phone while pumping" (Karin, mother of 30 weeker)

"Lie down while pumping -- I even fell asleep!" (Barb, mother of 29 weekers)