Breastfeeding & pumping

A quick guide to hand expressing your milk

ARTICLE

Hand expression is a skill that can come in handy

If you find yourself without your breast pump, you can hand express your breast milk. It's a useful skill that can help you out in a pinch. Here's an easy step-by-step guide to hand expression:

Step 1: Get ready

First things first, wash your hands and make sure they’re clean. Then find a clean container to collect the milk. It can be a breast milk storage bag or a small, sterilized container.

Step 2: Find a cozy spot

Get yourself to a quiet, comfy place. Take a moment to relax yourself and try some deep breathing. Give your breasts a little massage to help the milk flow.

Step 3: Set up your fingers

Put your thumb and pointer finger about 1-2 inches back from the dark area around your nipple (that's the areola). Make a C shape with your hand, keeping your fingers a bit apart.

Step 4: Start expressing

With your fingers in position, gently squeeze your thumb and pointer finger together, moving your hand back towards your chest. This way, you're pushing the milk toward the nipple.

Step 5: Keep going

Let go of the pressure, then gently squeeze your fingers together again. Keep up this rhythmic motion, going around your breast to make sure you get all the milk you need.

Don't worry if it takes a little practice – you'll get better with time. Hand expression is a good skill to have when breastfeeding. If you're having trouble, call a Pacify Lactation Consultant! They're there to help you out. With some practice and patience, you'll be a pro in no time.

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Bottle-feeding & formula

If you want to switch your baby’s formula, you must talk to your doctor about which one is best for your baby.

When changing baby formula, it’s normal for your baby to react in a few ways. They may be more gassy, spit up more, or react to the new taste. Their poops may change too. These signs are normal and may go away over time. Check the instructions to make sure you’re mixing correctly.

A few things to keep in mind:

Never use home-made baby formula.
Carefully read the mixing directions on the formula package.
Use safe water for their baby. Either use infant water, or boil tap water for one minute and then let it cool down before mixing.
It's normal for your baby's poop to look or smell different when you change formulas.
With help from your pediatrician, ask how to wean your baby from one formula to another. This can involve mixing both formulas separately and then putting them together in a special ratio to gradually wean the baby to the new formula.
If your baby is refusing the bottle, it may be a sign they are getting used to the flavor. They will usually adjust over time.

Signs your baby isn’t tolerating new formula

Look out for signs that your baby isn’t tolerating the new formula. If you notice any of these signs, stop using the new formula and call your doctor right away:

Diarrhea
Blood or mucus in poop
Vomiting
Signs of pain, like pulling legs up towards their stomach while they're crying
Trouble gaining weight

Always consult your doctor when changing formulas.

Breastfeeding & pumping

Having blocked milk ducts can be painful, but you can avoid and even fix them with the right steps.

Avoiding clogged ducts:

Avoid engorgement. Breastfeed or pump regularly to keep your breasts from getting too full.
Take deep breaths and gently massage your breast before nursing. This helps the milk flow better.
Try different breastfeeding positions. This helps make sure the whole breast is drained well.
Reduce pressure on your chest. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. Wear wireless bras or no bra when possible.

Fixing clogged ducts:

Keep breastfeeding or pumping to keep your milk flowing. Make sure your baby latches on well.
Take a hot shower or use a heating pad to soften the clog. Gentle massage can also help.
Softly massage the breast before nursing. Express a little milk by hand before nursing to get the flow going.
Avoid tight bras, especially during treatment. It's best to go braless. Ensure your breast pump fits well to avoid extra pressure.

If your clogged duct doesn't get better after trying these steps, get help. Call a Pacify Lactation Consultant or talk to your doctor for guidance. Dealing with clogged ducts is a common challenge. Remember that there are ways to help you feel better!

Breastfeeding & pumping

Breast milk is the best food for babies, but it's not just about nutrition. Research shows that breastfeeding can have benefits for both you and your baby!

For your baby:

1. Less chance of asthma

Breastfed babies are less likely to develop asthma. Asthma is a disease that makes it hard to breathe.

2. Lower risk of leukemia

Breastfeeding can lower the chances of childhood leukemia, a kind of blood cancer.

3. Prevents childhood obesity

Breastfeeding helps babies stay at a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity in childhood.

4. Fewer ear infections

Breastfed babies are less likely to get ear infections, which are common in childhood.

5. Protects against eczema

Breast milk can help guard against eczema, a condition that makes your skin itchy and swollen.

6. Helps the digestive system

Breastfeeding helps prevent diarrhea, throwing up, and lung infections.

7. Lowers the risk of intestinal problems

Breast milk helps prevent a serious intestinal illness called necrotizing enterocolitis. It happens in the intestines of preterm babies.

8. Reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes

Breastfed babies are less likely to get type 2 diabetes when they grow up.

For you:

1. Less risk of type 2 diabetes

Breastfeeding is good for the parent too. It lowers their chances of getting type 2 diabetes.

2. Lower risk of some breast cancers

Studies show that breastfeeding is linked to a lower chance of getting certain breast cancers.

3. Protects against ovarian cancer

Breastfeeding can also make it less likely for the parent to get ovarian cancer.

Breastfeeding also creates a strong connection between you and your baby. It brings comfort and support that can help your baby grow up healthy. As you start your breastfeeding journey, remember that the benefits can last far beyond the first few months. It helps your child’s health for a long time, and it can help yours too!

Sources

All of the information in our Library is evidence-based and backed by information from reputable organizations.

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