I feel like an idiot for asking but I am so lost when it comes to breastfeeding. I FF DS and have decided that I should give BF a try to save $$. I have decided that I am going to exclusively pump since I am in high demand around the house and work and will have tons of extra hands helping to feed LO. I already have my breast pump (Medela PISA) and had bought the Playtex Drop-In bottles before I decided to BF. DS #1 loved the Drop-ins and I am still wanting to use them over the bottles that came with the pump. I saw that Playtex has the connective system where you can just pump into the drop-ins. Just curious as to which I should get... Medela storage bags or Playtex Drop Ins???
Also, did your hospital ever force you to put the baby to your breast instead of just letting you pump and feed baby?
Thanks ladies!!
Re: Exclusive Pumpers Please Help!
I'm not exclusively pumping, but thought this was still pertinant. My BFF used her medela bags IN the playtex drop in bottles. They fit just fine, and allowed her to go straight from pump to fridge to bottle without having to do any extra steps. She would just lay the top flaps over the threads of the bottle, and screw the nipple on as normal. I plan on doing the same.
Oh, and the hospital can't force you to breastfeed.
I agree with PP on the Lanisoh bags. They close more securely and are a lot easier to use/store/label. The room in your freezer will go fast if you try and use bottles...stick with bags.
The hospital is probably going to recommend that you try and BF in the beginning to establish your supply, but not everyone can to that so they have the primo pumps there to get things going. I went back to work full time so I did a lot of pumping with both sons...but it was a relief to get a break from the pump on nights and weekends. Babies are also better at clearing up plugged ducts (which are pretty common when pumping) than the pumps are. Just something to consider. Exclusive pumping is definitely doable though.
I have the same question. But, again, don't want to discourage anyone from pumping either! Maybe try nursing once? I never had any success pumping, but bfed both my kids for 13+ mos. I just could never get anything out of a pump, and it would take me longer. I do hope it works for you, especially if this is what will fit your lifestyle best!
ETA: the time we spent one on one was also the best part of BF, for me at least.
i EPed for months 6-12 of my baby's life (she stopped latching after a bout with RSV), and it was a pain in the ass. i also work, so i get the need to do it when you're working, but if i had the choice, i would nurse in a heartbeat. pumping takes a LOT of dedication & discipline, and you don't get any of the bonding perks that you get when you nurse. i think it actually takes more time & work, honestly.
I've got no experience, but I've heard Lansinoh has the best customer service. A lady in charge of the nursing mothers room at work said one of hers broke and she called crying and they sent her a box to replace just the one bag.