Do I need a pump?!?

Mishelle62 · August 2010

I plan to BF until I go back to work, so all of Oct, Nov and Dec. Do I need a pump?! Anyone not using a pump at all? This is my first so I am pretty much clueless!

Thanks!!

KRMac · August 2010

IMO, yes.

Especially if you want to BF for longer than 3 months, or if you plan to be away from LO for more than 2 hours, or if you want any help with the feedings, etc. My DS was slow to gain weight, so I was pumping and giving him EBM to "supplement" during his first month. Also, when you do eventually wean, some find it helpful to pump to relieve engorgement. (Obviously I have no experience with that, just what I've picked up, lol!)

My first BFing goal was my maternity leave and I'm really glad that I stuck with it now. GL!

BLykins16 · August 2010

I would say yes. I pumped a couple of times during my maternity leave, which was 7 weeks. It was helpful in relieving engorgement. Also, I had to pump for the first 5 days (to establish supply) after my son was born as he was in the NICU and I wasn't able to nurse. You can always rent a pump from the hospital until you are ready to buy. The Medela Symphony (hospital-grade) was $60 a month and the Medela Lactina was $45. This will save you from buying a pump until you are sure you can/want to breastfeed.

Mishelle62 · August 2010

Thanks! I forgot that I can rent one...maybe I'll do that! Thanks again!

AmyfromMI · August 2010

IMHO yes. It allows you some freedom, even if you don't plan on returning to work. For instance, what happens if you're shopping and having dinner with girlfriends and Dad is home with the baby who's hungry?

AmyfromMI · August 2010

Mishelle62:
Thanks! I forgot that I can rent one...maybe I'll do that! Thanks again!

Check with your insurance co. too, they may pay for one if "your having trouble". Before DH was born my OB wrote me a RX for one, and I had it filled at the hospital and went home with a Medela Pump In Style.

AmyfromMI · August 2010

AmyfromMI:
Mishelle62:
Thanks! I forgot that I can rent one...maybe I'll do that! Thanks again!
Check with your insurance co. too, they may pay for one if "your having trouble". Before DH was born my OB wrote me a RX for one, and I had it filled at the hospital and went home with a Medela Pump In Style.

Oh boy, DH = DS lol

AdaraMarie · August 2010

I found it really helpful to have a manual pump to relieve engorgement during the first week home from the hospital.

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Do I need a pump?!?

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