How to Use a Breast Pump
As a new mother, breast pumps can take some getting used to. But like any skill out there, with a bit of time and effort, you can master using breast pumps – even on the go. The most important thing to remember is to be patient. These things take time and don’t just happen overnight. Although the breast pump doesn’t stimulate in you the same feelings that your baby does, with time your body will eventually learn to comply, triggering your let-down reflex while you’re pumping. The amount of milk you pump will also increase as you get the hang of using a breast pump.

Start slow.
Initially, you and your baby both work together to build and figure out your milk supply. If breastfeeding your baby is going smoothly after the initial four weeks, you won’t need a breast pump to help you calibrate your pumping. It comes in really handy, however, if you plan to be away from your baby for any period of time.

Time it.
When you first start using a breast pump, time it so that you can pump for at least 15 minutes. Don’t be alarmed if you don’t produce as much milk as you would have liked to at first. The suction of the pump will stimulate your breasts in such a way that they produce more milk. Some moms find that pumping a few minutes after a feed gives the most milk. Try pumping at different times to see which times best suits your lifestyle.

Breast pumping is not so hard when you get the hang of it. This will naturally take some time so don’t worry if you’re not the best at it the first time you try. Always remember to be hygienic when using the pump. A happy mother equals a happy baby.