How to select and use a Breast Pump?
Points of consideration for choosing a breast pump are as follows: Select a breast pump that is the most suitable and comfortable for you. Always remember that a pump with a strong suction power does not mean that it is good for you. A baby exerts a pressure of 80 to 100mmHG. Ensure the sucking force by the pump is appropriate and no pain is felt in the mamary glands. Sucking is different from pulling and rhythmic suction is better than hard pumping. Breast pump with a pumping strength of above 200mmHG is not recommended for breast feeding mothers. The following recommendations are helpful while expressing milk: • Warm the breast with a hot wet towel. Massage in circles from the outside of the breast to the inside, avoiding the nipple; • Express with a pump that has a comfortable and appropriate pressure; • Stop expressing when the breast is four-fifth emptied (NOTE: The breast cannot be emptied completely. Hence, do not express for longer than 20 minutes.
