Using The Breast Pump; When To Express Milk; Tips - Philips AVENT SCF334 User Manual

Using the breast pump

When to express milk

Tips

9 Attach the silicone tube and cap onto the diaphragm. Push down the cap
until it is securely in place.
If breastfeeding goes well, it is advisable (unless advised otherwise by your
healthcare professional/breastfeeding advisor) to wait until your milk supply
and breastfeeding schedule are established (normally at least 2 to 4 weeks
after giving birth) before you start expressing.
Exceptions:
- If breastfeeding does not go well immediately, expressing regularly can
help to establish and maintain your milk supply.
- If you are expressing milk for your baby to be given in hospital.
- If your breasts are engorged (painful or swollen), you can express a small
amount of milk before or between feeds to ease the pain and to help
your baby latch on more easily.
- If you have sore or cracked nipples, you may wish to express your milk
until they are healed.
- If you are separated from your baby and wish to continue to breastfeed
when you are reunited, you should express your milk regularly to
stimulate your milk supply.
You need to find the optimum times of the day to express your milk, for
example just before or after your baby's first feed in the morning when your
breasts are full, or after a feed if your baby has not emptied both breasts. If
you have returned to work, you may need to express during a break. Using a
breast pump requires practice and it may take several attempts before you
succeed. Fortunately, the Philips Avent electric breast pump is easy to
assemble and use so you will soon get used to expressing with it.
- Familiarize yourself with the breast pump and how to operate it before
you use it for the first time.
- Choose a time when you are not in a rush and will not be interrupted.
- A photograph of your baby can help encourage the 'let-down' reflex.
- Warmth can also help: try to express after a bath or shower, or place a
warm cloth or Philips Avent Thermopad on the breast for a few minutes
before you start expressing.
- You may find it easier to express while your baby is feeding from the
other breast, or immediately after a feed.
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