This is exactly how my client was able to pump for one year without sacrificing her mental health. So, let's break it down.
Exclusive pumping is an incredibly tough journey. I will not sugar coat it. Many times women think that it’s easier to exclusively pump than to go through the intense work of helping a baby get a proper latch, feeling comfortable feeding a wiggly, squeaky newborn. Having my own experiences with breastfeeding and served dozens of women postpartum: I think the work of getting the baby to the breast is generally easier overall. Now that I’ve had that caveat: let’s move on.
I helped my client get to one year of pumping for her premature baby in several ways.
#1 I put the reality out there, which I have heard most IBCLCs affirm: To exclusively pump, you’re probably going to have to pump 8 times in 24 hours.
#2 I explained how challenging this is, even with overnight support. I suggested a minimum of 6 pumps per day, and never missing that 3-5am window when prolactin is at it’s highest.
#3 I celebrated milestones, literally making her little award ribbon graphics and celebrating “100 days of pumping” —”200 days of pumping” etc.
#4 I helped her learn how to unclog a duct with her pump and prevent mastitis.
#5 I washed her pump parts and bottles for her 5 nights a week (sorry I can’t do that for all of you!) (PS we only washed pump parts once a day and refrigerated between pumps)
#6 I helped her set a realistic expectation for milk production and balanced that with her sleep needs + mental health. EXCLUSIVE BREASTMILK was not likely to be an option for her when we added in sleep/mental health needs.
#7 I helped her procure donor milk when her supply started tapering off in the second half of the first year.
#8 We discussed how to mitigate the supply drop that often occurs with the return of menses
#9 I helped her create a weaning plan to prevent a sharp hormone drop, prevent clogged ducts & mastitis and breast discomfort.
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You're probably so excited about welcoming your baby into your home, if you're like most moms you're probably flipping through a few books, you've download some apps, and listening to your friend's and family's experience. You're probably doing your part to be a star patient for your doctor or midwife.I totally get that, and this is actually a problem because you're going to get you varied, sometimes conflicting advice that might not even work for your circumstance, and here is the kicker: lots of time's it not evidence-based guidance.
Instead of that, I want to offer you that working with a doula from your first trimester through your postpartum time is actually going to give you what you really need: cohesive information, expert guidance and the emotional support that every new mom deserves. It's like having an a doula in your pocket (or purse if that's where you keep your phone)
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