Breast pumps are great for keeping up the milk supply when you're away from your baby, like if they're in the hospital or can't breastfeed directly. They let other family members help feed the baby, give you some flexibility if you're working or studying, and ensure that your baby can still enjoy the benefits of breast milk even when you're apart.

Your best breast pump depends on how often you plan to use it and your preferences. There are hospital-grade electric pumps for heavy-duty use, personal electric pumps for regular use, and single-sided pumps for occasional pumping. Consider your daily routine and how often you must pump to make the best choice.

Start by washing your hands thoroughly. Make sure your pump controls and collection containers are clean. Use flanges that fit well to avoid discomfort. Remember, pumping shouldn't hurt. After pumping, clean the pump parts with hot, soapy water and sanitize them daily. Sit comfortably, and make sure the flange size is right for an effective pumping session.

Yes, pumping can indeed help increase your milk supply. Regular pumping, especially with a hands-on technique and breast massage before pumping, can stimulate more milk production. Tracking your daily milk volumes can help you meet your baby's needs.

Containers:

Use sterilized containers or specially designed breast milk storage bags. These are BPA-free and best for freezing and storing.

Storage Temperatures:

Room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C): Up to 4 hours (ideally less).
Refrigerator (39°F or 4°C): Up to 8 days (store in the back, not the door).
Freezer (0°F or −18°C): Up to 6 months is recommended, and up to 12 months is acceptable in a deep freezer.

General Tips:

- Label and date all containers before storing.
- Freeze breast milk in smaller portions to avoid waste.
- Thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator or under running lukewarm water. Don't thaw at room temperature or in the microwave.
- Once thawed, use breast milk within 24 hours.

It's a good idea to start pumping a few weeks before you need to return to work or be away from your baby for an extended period. This gives you time to get used to the pump and allows your baby to adjust to bottle feeding.

Thawing:

Never thaw breast milk at room temperature or in the microwave. These methods can destroy nutrients and create hot spots that burn your baby's mouth.

Safe Thawing Methods:

Refrigerator: This is the gentlest and safest method. Place the frozen container (bag or bottle) in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw for several hours, typically up to 12 hours. Once thawed, use the milk within 24 hours.
Warm water bath: Fill a clean bowl with lukewarm (not hot) water. Submerge the frozen container completely and swirl it gently to encourage thawing. This method can be faster than the refrigerator and takes about 1-2 hours.
Running warm water: Hold the frozen container under running warm (not hot) tap water. Swirl the container constantly to ensure even thawing. This is the quickest method, but be careful not to overheat the milk.

Using Thawed Milk:

Check for separation: Once thawed, breast milk may separate with a fatty layer on top. This is normal. Gently swirl the container to recombine the milk.
Squirt a little milk onto your wrist before feeding to test the temperature. It should feel lukewarm, not hot.
Use within 2 hours: Breast milk is good for up to 2 hours once thawed at room temperature. Discard any leftover milk after feeding.

Thaw the oldest milk first. This ensures you use up your supply in the order it was expressed.
Don't refreeze thawed milk: Thawed milk should only be used once.