pump hurts!

thatsmary

At this point I have little to no problem breastfeeding, but I hate pumping.  It totally hurts and turns my nipples purple.  I want to build up a supply as well as start feeding a bottle once a day, but I can't convince myself to let that machine latch on.  Suggestions?

smo321

Do you have the right size horns?  Are the to big or to small?  Also sound like you have the pump turned up to high.  You shouldnt feel pain just tugging.  If you pump for long extended time your nipples will start to turn a purplish color. 

PGASTL

I agree with pp, don't turn up the suction too high and make sure you have the right size pump parts. If you use a Medela, you may want to try the softfit flanges. I like them a lot because they don't hurt the rest of my b00b so much.

I really really hated pumping at first (I EBF but am building a stash for when I got back to work next week), but after several weeks I am starting to get the hang of it. I had the suction too high at first as well, thinking I needed it that high to get milk.

Don't be discouraged if you don't get much milk on a low suction - after a week or so your body will get more used to the pump.

Also, I use lanoline EVERY time before pumping and let my nipples air out afterwards, that helps them shrink back to normal size.