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Everything But the Breast

A Look at Exclusive Pumping

By Cynthia Peterson

Your baby might not be nursing, but he or she is a breast-milk-fed baby! Don't be afraid to declare it. Be proud of the sacrifice you are making for the health of your child.

• Are the breast shields the right size for your nipples? The shields that come with the pump are the "standard" size. You can order larger or smaller ones online.
• Check your pump settings. Faster, at a higher suction, does not equal more milk. Find the settings that are most comfortable for you, and only increase them if you can tolerate it painlessly.
• If you experience no let down or slow let down, relax as much as possible. Stay hydrated, and eat a nutritious diet. If you still have trouble, warm compresses applied directly to the breast can help expedite the let down reflex.
• If you are unable to empty your breast, keep in mind that your breasts are never truly empty. You can encourage more milk by doing breast compressions (gently squeezing and massaging breast).
• You are still vulnerable to complications of conventional breastfeeding. If you suspect you have plugged ducts, mastitis or thrush, contact a health professional or lactation consultant.

Exclusively pumping may not fit your dreams of breastfeeding Baby, but you can be proud of giving your child the best nutrition, for as long as you are able.

Want to see more?

• A Bottle Filled with Breast Milk: Why and How Women Exclusively Pump
• Full Exposure: Is Your Breast Pump Worth It?
• To Rent or Not to Rent: That Is the Question: The Whys and Hows of Breast Pump Rentals
• Check out our Article Library.
• Talk about it!