Full-Time Pumping

When Breastfeeding Isn’t Possible, but You Still Want to Provide Breast Milk

You wanted to breastfeed, but for one reason or another, it’s not working out. To ensure your baby still receives breast milk, you can opt for full-time pumping. Unlike breastfeeding, where you feed your baby on demand, pumping requires much more planning and organization, especially since you also need to feed your baby on top of pumping. Full-time pumping is entirely feasible, but it does require effort. To support you, we’ve gathered practical tips and advice in this blog.

Premature Birth

If your baby is born prematurely, they may not yet be able to nurse directly. Pumping is an excellent way to stimulate milk production and provide your baby with breast milk from the start, even if it’s via a bottle. You can continue pumping until transitioning to breastfeeding or choose to pump full-time until switching to other forms of feeding.

When Breastfeeding Doesn’t Work

Sometimes breastfeeding isn’t possible due to latching issues, nipple cracks, or uncertainty about whether your baby is getting enough milk. Pumping is a very effective, often temporary, solution to ensure your baby continues to receive breast milk. Once your baby is stronger and older, it’s often worthwhile to consult a lactation consultant who can help you transition back to breastfeeding.

When to Start Pumping?

You can start pumping at any time. If your baby is born prematurely, it’s generally advised to start pumping as soon as possible after delivery, ideally within a few hours, to kick-start milk production. If you’ve started breastfeeding but need to stop, begin pumping at the same times you would typically nurse your baby.

The Color of Breast Milk

While breastfeeding, you don’t see the milk, but when pumping, you may notice changes in its color. Especially when starting right after birth, the milk may appear yellowish at first and gradually become whiter over time.

Full-Time Pumping: A Full-Time Job

Choosing full-time pumping means adopting a schedule similar to breastfeeding, typically about 8 times a day right after birth. This truly becomes a full-time job, as you also need to feed your baby alongside pumping. Nighttime can be particularly challenging due to the lack of sleep, but it’s essential to pump at night to stimulate prolactin, a hormone that boosts milk production. To manage your energy, consider letting someone else handle the feeding while you focus on pumping. The intimate bonding you’d experience during breastfeeding can still happen during skin-to-skin time with your baby at other moments.

What to Look for in a Good Pump?

A quality pump is essential. Choose a double pump to save time and ensure the breast shields fit properly to avoid pain and maintain milk production. Electric pumps with a reliable battery are the most convenient, and a model that works with a power bank can give you flexibility wherever you are.

Borrowing, Renting, or Buying a Pump?

A good pump can be expensive, which is why many parents borrow or rent one. If you’re unsure which pump is best for you, consider renting a professional-grade pump initially to help establish milk production and find out your preferences. If you decide to buy, you’ll know what features matter most to you. Borrowing is also possible, but ensure the pump has a closed system to prevent bacteria or mold from contaminating the motor. This also applies to second-hand pumps. Avoid purchasing a pump before birth, as your needs may differ depending on whether you pump full-time or occasionally.

Food and Drink While Pumping

Always keep water nearby while pumping, as it can make you thirsty. Your body needs hydration to produce milk. Be mindful of your diet—avoid alcohol for a few hours before pumping, or discard milk expressed after drinking. Dieting during this period isn’t recommended, as breastfeeding and pumping require energy, and toxins released during dieting can enter your milk.

Storing or Freezing Pumped Milk

Store pumped milk in bottles or bags and refrigerate it immediately. Label each container with the date and time. At the end of the day, you can mix the milk from the day for optimal composition. If you have surplus milk, freeze it. Try not to store frozen milk for too long, as its composition is tailored to your baby’s current needs.

Thawing Breast Milk

Thaw frozen milk slowly in the refrigerator, which can take up to 12 hours. If you need it sooner, hold it under running water, gradually transitioning from cold to warm. Never thaw breast milk with hot water!

Optimal Temperature for Pumped Milk

The ideal temperature for pumped milk, like formula, is about 30–35°C. Test it by dropping a bit on the inside of your wrist. Warm milk gently in warm water or a bottle warmer; never use a microwave, as it can heat unevenly and destroy vital nutrients. If warming isn’t an option, many babies will still accept cold milk.

Full-Time Pumping Is Challenging

Full-time pumping is, as the name suggests, a full-time job. Enlist help for other tasks, as this will require significant time and energy. If you have questions, feel free to contact us for advice. We have plenty of tips and can refer you to experienced lactation consultants. And if you ever decide to stop, that’s okay too. Every drop of breast milk you’ve given your baby is a gift, and a happy, energized parent is just as crucial for a happy baby!

Questions or Preparing for Breastfeeding? Join Our Workshop!

Did you know you can prepare for breastfeeding before giving birth? Our practice offers a breastfeeding course in both Dutch and English. Pumping is also covered, so you’ll know what to expect and what options are available. Read more about it here or ask us for details. We’d be happy to help!