Expressing successfully does need a bit of practice, so relax, take your time and don't worry if things don't go to plan straight away. It is important to find a routine that suits you, and if you are unsure in any way, ask for help from your healthcare professional.
Expressing breast milk can be done by hand or with a breast pump. Either way, there are a few simple steps to follow before you start:
- Have everything you need on hand - sterilised breast pump or container, a drink and a photo of your baby - which may help your milk to flow.
- Wash your hands, find a comfortable position, and relax.
- Gently massage the breast, including the nipple area, to stimulate the breastfeeding hormones before you start to express.
- Use a breast pump or continue to express your milk by hand. See below for more detailed instructions about how to do this.
Expressing Breast Milk by Hand
- Cup your breast with the palm of your hand and place your thumb just above your nipple.
- Compress and release the nipple until milk begins to flow.
- Continue until the milk flow stops on each breast.
- Repeat the cycle again on both breasts.
- Remember to store your breast milk in a sterile container.
Expressing Breast Milk by Pump
- Sterilise all parts of your breast pump before each use.
- Assemble the pump according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Start to express slowly at first, ensuring that the pump is in the correct position and comfortable.
- Pump for 5 minutes or until the milk flow stops on each breast.
- Repeat the cycle again on both breasts.
- Remember to store your breast milk in a sterile container.
Remember, you are only trying to express milk from just behind the nipple, so strong suction is not necessary. Good breast pumps will aim to mimic your baby's sucking action and should not cause pain. If it hurts to use the pump, stop and seek advice from your healthcare professional.