Creating an effective breastfeeding and pumping routine is essential for new mothers who want to ensure their baby receives the nutrition they need while maintaining flexibility in their own schedules. Whether exclusively breastfeeding, pumping, or doing a combination of both, finding the right routine can help streamline the process and reduce stress. Ardo Medical offers a range of high-quality breast pumps to support your breastfeeding journey. In this guide, we’ll share some tips for creating the best breastfeeding and pumping routine to suit your lifestyle and needs.
Establish a Regular Feeding and Pumping Schedule
One of the most important steps in developing a successful breastfeeding and pumping routine is to establish consistency. Babies typically feed every 2-3 hours, and it’s helpful to pump around the same time intervals, even if you’re away from your baby. For working mothers or those needing time away, this consistency can help maintain your milk supply.
To make this process easier, using Ardo breast pumps, known for their comfort and efficiency, can help you pump quickly and comfortably. Consistent pumping at regular intervals will mimic your baby’s feeding pattern, supporting milk production.
Tips for Scheduling:
- Track your baby’s natural feeding times. If you can, start by following their lead to create a schedule that works for both of you.
- Plan pumping sessions around your baby’s feeding schedule. For example, if your baby feeds every 3 hours, pump either right after feeding or midway between two feedings.
- Use a breast pump at work. If you’re a working mum, find a private space at work and pump during break times to stay on track with your routine. Read more about breast pumping at work.
Start Early and Be Patient
If you’re planning to pump alongside breastfeeding, it’s beneficial to start early. Ardo breast pumps are designed for use from birth, helping you build a milk stash and get comfortable with pumping from the beginning. Patience is essential, as it may take time for your body to adapt to this new routine. With consistency, both you and your body will become more attuned to the process.
Starting Tips:
- Choose the right pump setting. Choose the right pump settings that work for you. Ardo breast pumps offer adjustable suction and speed controls, enabling you to personalise your experience for maximum comfort and efficiency.
- Pump in a calm environment. Pumping in a calm and quiet environment can make a significant difference. Stress and distractions can interfere with your milk letdown, so create a relaxing space where you can focus and unwind.
- Try hands-free pumping. Investing in a hands-free pumpset or pumping bra can be a game-changer. It not only allows you to multitask but also provides better comfort and freedom during pumping sessions. Our hands-free pumpset is compatible with all Ardo breast pumps, ensuring a seamless and flexible experience.
Build a Freezer Stash Early
Having a stockpile of frozen breast milk can be a lifesaver during busy days, work trips, or emergencies. By building up a milk stash, you can ensure that your baby has a constant supply of milk, even when you’re not around.
To create a successful freezer stash:
- Start pumping after your morning breastfeeding session. Morning is usually when milk supply is at its peak, and this can be the best time to build up extra milk.
- Store Milk in Small Portions: To minimise waste and make feeding more convenient, freeze your expressed milk in small amounts of 2-4 ounces. This way, you can thaw just the right quantity for your baby’s needs. Our Easy Store bags are specially designed for this purpose, providing a safe and efficient way to store and label your milk portions.
- Label your milk. Always date and label the milk storage bags, using the oldest first.
Ardo breast pumps can help you pump efficiently, giving you the flexibility to create your freezer stash without hassle.
Make Pumping Comfortable with Ardo Breast Pumps
Comfort is key when you’re pumping regularly. Uncomfortable pumping sessions can deter you from sticking to a routine, but Ardo breast pumps are designed with both efficiency and comfort in mind.
Features of Ardo Breast Pumps:
- Variety of breast shell sizes: One size does not fit all, and we emphasize the importance of finding the correct breast shell size for your body. Having the right size breast shell helps optimise milk flow and enhances comfort. Ardo provides multiple sizes to ensure you find the perfect fit for your nipples and breast pump.
- Adjustable suction levels. This allows you to tailor the pump’s settings to mimic your baby’s natural suckling rhythm.
- Quiet operation. Ardo pumps are discreet, making them ideal for use in shared spaces or workplaces.
- Hygienic design. With a closed system, Ardo breast pumps prevent milk contamination, ensuring safe, clean milk for your baby.
Stay Flexible and Adapt Your Routine as Needed
Your breastfeeding and pumping routine will evolve over time. As your baby grows, their feeding needs will change, and you may find yourself adjusting how often and how long you pump. Staying flexible is essential for maintaining a stress-free routine.
If you’re going through a period of low milk supply, use a breast pump like the Ardo Calypso or Ardo Alyssa to stimulate production and maintain milk flow. It’s also important to be kind to yourself during this process, recognising that changes are normal.
Conclusion
Creating the best breastfeeding and pumping routine takes time, patience, and the right tools. Ardo breast pumps can make the process easier, more comfortable, and efficient, giving you peace of mind as you balance breastfeeding and pumping.
With Ardo Medical, you’re not just getting a pump, you’re getting support for your breastfeeding journey every step of the way.
