FAQs

WHAT TYPE AND BRAND OF PUMP SHOULD I CHOOSE? This depends on whether you’ll pump frequently or occasionally. If you can, choose a good quality brand over a cheaper one and don’t buy a used pump. Internet searches will reveal the top brands and what to expect, but your pharmacist should have first-hand knowledge of most of these products. HOW LONG SHOULD I PUMP AT EACH SESSION? Pump at least 10 minutes but no more than 20 minutes per session.

ARE THERE CERTAIN TIMES OF DAY THAT ARE BETTER TO EXPRESS?

Experts recommend the early morning hours for the best yield. If you’re also nursing, wait for around an hour after you’ve finished.

IS THE AMOUNT OF MILK I EXPRESS THE AMOUNT I’M PRODUCING?

No, that is never a reliable indicator. The healthy breastfed baby is usually more efficient at getting milk from the breast than a pump.

HOW MUCH MILK DO I NEED TO PUMP?

Current breastfeeding research shows that exclusively breastfed babies aged one to six months consume an average of 750ml per day. It can vary from baby to baby but the average intake range is 570 to 900ml per day.

HOW MUCH MILK WILL MY BABY NEED AT EACH FEED?

Estimate the number of times per day that your baby nurses. Then divide 750ml by the number of nursings to get an approximate quantity for each feeding. Remember, this is only a guide; some babies might drink less or more.

I’VE JUST STARTED EXPRESSING AND THINK I’VE GOT TOO MUCH MILK.

At the outset, the body doesn’t know how much milk to make so there’s often too much. This will regulate according to how much the baby takes in.

I’VE BEEN PUMPING FOR THREE MONTHS AND THE VOLUME HAS DROPPED.

This is normal and due to a hormonal change. Adjust your pumping and nurse patterns to compensate for this.

I’M ABOUT TO START EXPRESSING; WHAT CAN I EXPECT?

It will vary from mom to mom but expect ups and downs. Patience and persistence will overcome most obstacles but if you’re struggling, contact a good lactation expert, who’ll get you back on course in no time at all.

MY STORED MILK HAS SEPARATED INTO MILKY AND CREAMY LAYERS OR SECTIONS?

This is normal. Swirl gently to mix before giving it to your baby to drink.

I’VE GOT THRUSH, WHAT MUST I DO?

Continue to express and feed your baby. Keep in mind that refrigerated or frozen milk won’t kill yeast, so any leftover milk expressed during the infection must be discarded after treatment to limit the risk of thrush spreading to your baby.