How Do You Pump if Your Baby is in the NICU?

If your baby is in the NICU, you can stimulate your milk production hormones by holding your baby against your skin, if you’re able. If you’re not able to hold your baby, try looking at a photograph of them or smelling a piece of their worn clothing to help with stimulation. 

How Often Do You Pump?

Typical newborns eat 10-12 times every 24 hours, so you should aim to match your pumping to that amount.  After a month, aim for about eight times a day. This will mean that you’re pumping every two-three hours for the first few weeks. Pumping should take about 10-20 minutes on each breast. If you have twins or more babies, you will need to pump more often and for a longer period. 

How Much Milk Will There Be?

Colostrum is the first form of milk that will come out, and it’s packed with nutrients for your newborn. There may not be much at first, especially if your baby is premature, but that’s ok! Breast milk generally operates as a supply and demand system and produces the amount your baby needs to be healthy. The more you pump, the more milk you will produce. 

What Do You Need to Pump in the NICU?

Make sure to talk to the medical experts at the NICU to make the best plan for your baby and figure out what accessories you need for maximum comfort. Some pieces you may consider in addition the pump include:

• Hands-free nursing bra
• Nursing cover
• Car adapter
• Extra pump parts
• Sterilizing bags
• Wash tub
• Cooler bag
• Breast warmers 

Which Type of Pump Should NICU Moms Use?

A hospital-grade electric breast pump is a great option, as is a hands-free pump. The NICU often has pumps available for visiting moms. You also may qualify for a free pump through insurance—Pumps For Mom can help guide you through the steps to getting your free breast pump. 

We like to recommend the Medela Freestyle breast pump for its convenience with a rechargeable battery, since many moms waiting on their baby in NICU need to travel back and forth a lot. The Spectra S1 Plus is also a great lightweight, portable option with a massage mode and a built-in nightlight. 

How Do NICU Moms Store and Transport Breast Milk?

The hospital will likely provide NICU moms with containers to store your breast milk. Make sure to always label the container, don’t mix milk from different pumping sessions, and refrigerate or freeze the milk within two days after pumping. To travel, keep refrigerated milk on ice in a cooler and keep frozen milk in a cooler without ice, which will actually make it thaw more quickly.

The most important thing to remember while you’re pumping in the NICU is that you’re doing a great job! Your parental instincts are kicking in to help you take care of your baby, and that’s all that matters. Talk to the hospital staff and other moms to help guide you on your pumping journey. If you want to learn more about qualifying for a breast pump through insurance or details about a specific pump, reach out to Pumps For Mom for more information! 

Fed is best.

As with most aspects of parenting, everyone has an opinion about the best way to feed a baby. Where one parent says breastfeeding is the only way to go, another may say that formula provides more nutrients for babies and more freedom for moms. Medical experts and research have clearly defined the benefits that breastfeeding can provide for moms and babies, but it is important to remember that a fed baby is best, no matter what they eat. Babies are nothing if not resilient, and they can become healthy toddlers with formula or breast milk! 

Breastfeeding takes practice.

Although breastfeeding is an instinctive process, that does not mean it comes naturally to every mom or baby. A new mama may be doing absolutely everything recommended by a doctor or lactation consultant, but her baby may not be able to latch consistently. On the other hand, a baby might have an excellent latch, but mom may be struggling with breast milk supply. Breastfeeding requires collaboration between moms and babies, with a lot of things going right, so it makes sense that new mamas take some time to practice and find their breastfeeding rhythm.

Every mom and baby is different.

No matter how a mom is feeding her baby, there must be an element of adaptation to meet the unique needs of each little one. What worked for one mom will likely not work for another, and moms may even need to change their feeding strategy for each child they have. From various breastfeeding positions to the breast pump that works best, moms need to be ready to adapt to conditions that are different from other moms’ experiences. As helpful as advice from other parents can be, every mom must be able to hear these opinions from others and recognize that it may not be right for her and her little one.

Feeding a baby can be expensive.

Everything from diapers to bottles adds up over time, so many parents are looking for opportunities to save a few dollars whenever possible. Breastfeeding can be a natural money-saver because moms can provide breast milk for every feeding without spending any money. While building up a supply of formula would be costly and take up a significant amount of space, storing expressed breast milk can be simple, safe, and cost-efficient.

Don’t be afraid to try something new.

For parents who have already decided how they want to feed their little one when he or she arrives, remember that nothing is permanent when it comes to newborns! Moms who have decided to breastfeed may have a few positions or let-down strategies that work for a little while and then are suddenly less effective. The key is to be flexible and always willing to try something new! Moms and babies have to work together to breastfeed, so if a certain feeding strategy isn’t working, don’t be afraid to switch things up or lean on a breast pump for some added flexibility.

There are lots of strong opinions about how to raise a baby “the right way.” At Pumps For Mom, we recognize that every family is unique, and moms need the freedom to find what works best for them! For moms who are ready to order their breast pump through insurance, the Pumps For Mom maternity product specialists have your back. We can verify your insurance coverage, help you find the best breast pump for you, and keep you updated through every step of the process. Get ready to feed your baby, and qualify for your breast pump through insurance today!

Give yourself a break.

First and foremost, try not to take any of your New Year’s resolutions too seriously! As important as it is for moms to reevaluate what is working well in their motherhood journeys, resolutions should not be set in stone. Goals like eating right and exercising more can be great, but many moms may benefit more from slowing down and taking a break once in a while. Breastfeeding can be exhausting, and moms everywhere face constant pressure to be better and do better for their children. In reality, taking a moment to care for yourself and destress can make you a more attentive mom in the long-term. You may be a mama, but you are still a person too, and everyone needs some time for themselves! 

Try a new breastfeeding position or product.

It never hurts to try something new! Whether you have your breastfeeding routine down to a science or you’re still struggling to find your groove, mix it up with a product that can make your life easier. From a new nursing bra or compression product to a wearable breast pump or extra breast milk storage bags, the new year is a perfect time to treat yourself. If saving money is another one of your resolutions, you can still try something new as you breastfeed. Trying a new breastfeeding position or alternating between nursing and pumping can refresh your breastfeeding routine so you can find what works best for you.

Do your best to stop the comparisons.

An inclusive community can be an excellent way for moms to learn from and support each other through the ups and downs of motherhood. However, mom-shaming and constant comparisons can sneak into these communities, both online and in-person, especially when it comes to breastfeeding mistakes. No mom is perfect, even if her social media accounts look that way. This year, try to focus less on how you compare to another mom and look instead at your little one. If they are happy, healthy, and safe, you’re probably doing a great job, mama!

Prioritize nutrition over dieting.

Breastfeeding can be mentally and physically tiring, so giving your body the right fuel is essential. Foods high in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients can provide the energy moms need to make breast milk as they check everything else off the to-do list. Nursing moms require extra nutrients like iron, omega-3s, and carbohydrates, so skip the fad diets this year and try some new foods to ensure you feel your best while you breastfeed. And for moms struggling with low supply, certain foods may have the added bonus of giving your breast milk a boost. 

Make the most of your insurance coverage.

The start of a new year means most insurance plans reset, and deductibles go back to zero. And when it comes to insurance coverage, moms may be entitled to more than they think. New moms who started breastfeeding but are now wondering if they need a breast pump may be able to get a breast pump through insurance with no out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, insurance-covered maternity compression products may be available to moms who want to speed up their recovery after pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Work with the maternity product specialists at Pumps For Mom to see what your insurance can do for you this year!

At Pumps For Mom, we help moms get the top breast pumps through insurance without the stress. Our simple qualification form and our team of maternity product specialists can verify insurance coverage and help moms find the best insurance breast pump for their needs. We know moms have enough to do without worrying about how to get their breast pump. While you focus on taking care of your little one, let us focus on getting your breast pump through insurance to your door. Qualify for your breast pump with Pumps For Mom today!

Drinking Alcohol While Pregnant

Before we dive into the facts about drinking and breastfeeding, let’s take a step back and cover the guidelines for drinking alcohol during pregnancy. According to the CDC, there is no amount of alcohol that is safe to drink while pregnant. The body is working overtime to grow a baby, and alcohol can have some serious health consequences for your little one during and after pregnancy. Any alcohol consumed by a pregnant woman can travel through the umbilical cord to a growing baby and may result in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Alcohol can even cause problems in those first few weeks of pregnancy before many moms even realize they are expecting. So if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, it is best to abstain from drinking alcohol entirely.

Can I drink alcohol while breastfeeding?

Many moms are familiar with the risks of drinking alcohol during pregnancy, and, understandably, these concerns continue to exist when a mom is breastfeeding or expressing breast milk with a breast pump. Not drinking alcohol at all is certainly the safest option for moms who are breastfeeding, as it eliminates the risk that a growing baby ingests any alcohol. However, experts generally agree that moderate alcohol consumption, specifically one standard drink per day, is not harmful to an infant, especially if a mom waits at least two hours after a single drink before breastfeeding. It is important to note that alcohol can pass into breast milk if moms do not delay breastfeeding long enough for the alcohol to dissipate from the body, which is potentially dangerous for a growing baby.

Tips to breastfeed safely after drinking alcohol

Whether it’s a planned girls’ night or a glass of wine at Thanksgiving dinner, nursing mothers can absolutely enjoy a drink as long as they do it safely. In general, if a mom has one standard drink, she should wait at least two hours after she finished the drink before breastfeeding or expressing breast milk. A standard drink is equal to 12 ounces of 5% beer; 8 ounces of 7% malt liquor; 5 ounces of 12% wine; or 1.5 ounces of 40% (80 proof) liquor. After two hours, a standard drink should have made its way out of the body and will not pass to breast milk. 

The common idea of “pumping and dumping” refers to when a mom pumps breast milk after drinking alcohol and throws that milk away. And although some moms may claim otherwise, this process does NOT get alcohol out of the body more quickly. A mom may “pump and dump” her breast milk, but she must wait at least two hours after finishing one standard drink for that breast milk to be safe. Nursing moms can certainly pump their breast milk and discard it if their breasts are getting engorged or if they feel uncomfortable, but she should not store that breast milk or feed it to a baby. Additionally, each woman’s unique tolerance to alcohol and other factors, like if the alcohol was consumed with food, can impact how long it takes for blood alcohol levels to reach a safe range. For example, if a woman has three standard drinks, it will take at least six to eight hours for that alcohol to not be detectable in breast milk. When in doubt, wait a few extra hours, pump and dump if you feel uncomfortable, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor with specific questions. 

It is possible to safely drink alcohol while breastfeeding if moms know the facts and drink responsibly! We understand the desire for a cup of eggnog or spiked apple cider this holiday season, and breastfeeding moms don’t have to be left out. Just remember to do it safely and give yourself plenty of time between your last drink and a pumping or breastfeeding session.

Pumps For Mom is proud to support breastfeeding moms! When it comes to breastfeeding, our experts know that the right breast pump can make a difference in a nursing mom’s life. We make it easy for new and expectant moms to order a breast pump through insurance so they are ready to breastfeed when their little one arrives. Qualify for your breast pump with our simple form and immediately browse pumps that are covered by your insurance!

Facts About Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and is a leading cause of death from cancer among women in the United States. 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer at some point in their life, and in 2020, and it is estimated that approximately 30% of all new cancer diagnoses for women will be breast cancer. Because of the seriousness and prevalence of breast cancer, organizations and scientists all over the world are continuing to search for relevant risk factors or preventative actions that could help protect women from this disease. There are many different kinds of breast cancer associated with various risk factors, although some research suggests that certain types of breast cancer may be related to the amount of estrogen in women’s bodies. 

Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Prevention

The changes that occur in a woman’s body during pregnancy and breastfeeding, notably a reduced amount of estrogen, may make cells less likely to become cancerous. Scientists have found that being pregnant has certain protective benefits, but breastfeeding lowers the risk of pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer more significantly than pregnancy alone. To take full advantage of the protective benefits of breastfeeding, the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Health Organization states that mothers should breastfeed exclusively for at least six months. However, mothers can further reduce their breast cancer risk if they continue breastfeeding past six months. Specifically, breastfeeding continuously for 12 months or longer is associated with a 28% lower risk of breast cancer, compared to only a 14% lower risk for women who breastfeed for a shorter amount of time.

Tips for Exclusive Breastfeeding

Pumps For Mom knows how challenging it can be to stick to exclusive breastfeeding for six months, much less continuing to breastfeed for a full year or more after giving birth. Because breastfeeding can be tiring, our team is passionate about making it as easy as possible to breastfeed. Using a breast pump is one of the easiest ways moms can enjoy more flexibility and comfort as they continue on their breastfeeding journey. From helping establish a reliable breast milk supply to making it possible for non-breastfeeding parents to share feeding responsibilities, breast pumps make it easier for moms to continue breastfeeding for as long as possible. 

Breast cancer is an unfortunate reality for millions of families across the globe. But with progressing research and continued awareness, we are getting closer to finding a cure for breast cancer. Our team is proud to support efforts like breastfeeding that can help moms reduce their risk of breast cancer. 

Pumps For Mom is here to do everything we can to make breastfeeding moms’ lives easier. And with our wide range of breast pumps through insurance, moms can get their high-quality breast pump without breaking the bank. Our experts streamline the process, and our simple qualification form makes it possible for moms to see exactly which insurance breast pumps are included with their coverage. Take advantage of the benefits of breastfeeding with an insurance breast pump from Pumps For Mom.

How Long Should I Be Breastfeeding Exclusively?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) actually has some pretty clear recommendations when it comes to this question. When possible, moms are encouraged to provide breast milk exclusively for the first six months of life, whether through breastfeeding or expressing milk using a breast pump.  Further, mothers should continue giving breast milk with complementary foods for another year or longer. Throughout the first six months of a baby’s life, breast milk plays an essential role in developing the immune system and reduces the likelihood a baby suffers from a severe medical condition like a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection. Additionally, breastfeeding a newborn encourages normative growth during this critical development period.

Breastfeeding Beyond 6 Months

After feeding your little one only breast milk for the first six months of life, breastfeeding will look a little different. Adding solid foods into the mix makes life more complicated for new moms, and it may feel like a challenge to continue breastfeeding as you struggle to find solid foods your little one will eat. However, it’s important for moms to remember that the longer they continue to breastfeed, the more long-term benefits their baby will receive. Breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced incidence of a range of medical conditions, including clinical asthma, type 1 diabetes, and celiac disease. A few extra months of breastfeeding can continue to build up this valuable protection that will stay with babies as they grow. A steady supply of breast milk also ensures your little one is getting all the nutrients they need, especially if they are a picky eater when it comes to solid foods.

How Long Should I Breastfeed?

There is no clear rule that determines how long moms should breastfeed. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the continuation of breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods until the child is two years of age or longer. The AAP and WHO may recommend these timelines, but they are just that – a recommendation. If your little one is growing well with breast milk and you can continue providing it, there is no harm in continuing to breastfeed past your baby’s first or second birthday. On the other hand, if you reach the six-month mark of exclusive breastfeeding and are struggling to keep up with your little one’s demand, you can introduce solids and start weaning him or her off breast milk.

The bottom line is that you decide how long you should breastfeed your baby. You can consider the recommendations of health organizations and your family members, but breastfeeding is different for everyone. If you have questions, talk to your pediatrician and trust your gut! You know what’s best for you and your baby.

Pumps For Mom is passionate about making moms’ lives easier. With our variety of insurance covered breast pumps and maternity compression garments, Pumps For Mom makes sure new and expectant moms get the tools they need to start their breastfeeding journey off right. Our experts are ready to walk you through every step of the process so you can get your breast pump through insurance without the hassle. Explore insurance breast pumps covered by your insurance using our simple qualification form, and let Pumps For Mom take care of the rest.

Salmon

Salmon and other fatty fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids like DHA. They promote heart health for breastfeeding moms and encourages brain and nervous system development for growing infants. While most fish contain these nutritious fatty acids, breastfeeding moms need to steer clear of swordfish, mackerel and other fish with high levels of mercury. The Centers for Disease Control warns that high concentrations of mercury can limit proper cognitive development. Be sure to stick to fatty fish with omega-3s and look out for the baby’s growing brain.

Leafy Green Veggies

Spinach, kale, swiss chard, and other leafy green vegetables are jam-packed with vitamins and minerals that are good for your breast milk. While leafy greens may cause your breast milk to develop a green tint,  they are also full of vitamin A, calcium, vitamin K, iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These vegetables give your breast milk a healthy boost. 

Brown Rice

Carbohydrates are an essential component to a breastfeeding diet. While you may be anxious to work off your pregnancy weight right after you give birth, remember you are still eating for two while you breastfeed. The complex carbohydrates found in brown rice and other whole-grain foods are full of B vitamins, which help turn carbs into energy. These foods are also full of fiber, which helps you feel full longer and aids in digestion. Don’t be scared of complex carbs–you’ll need the energy to get through ten feedings a day!

Oranges

Oranges and other citrus fruits are great for nursing moms who need a burst of energy. The vitamin C found in these tasty fruits is helps us absorb iron and keep energy levels up. Always have your hands full? Orange juice is also packed with vitamin C and is often fortified with calcium, so you can get your vitamin C boost on the go!

Lean Beef

Breastfeeding moms have increased needs for protein and iron–both of which can be met by eating lean beef. Protein plays a significant role in building and repairing muscle tissue. Iron is necessary for keeping energy levels up. Lean beef can be used in countless recipes as a delicious source of protein. It’s also an excellent way to fit other nutrients like zinc, iron, and B vitamins into an everyday diet. When your diet is balanced with a combination of lean protein, fruits, and veggies, not only is your body getting the healthy nutrients it needs to support you when you’re breastfeeding, but your little one also receives balanced and nutritious breast milk. 

Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are an amazing source of protein for breastfeeding moms who stick to a vegan or vegetarian diet. These low-cost legumes are packed with folate, which is necessary for infant brain development. They are also packed with fiber and protein to keep mom full for longer. Add beans and lentils to soups, stews, and dips or enjoy them on their own for an easy source of nutrients for busy new moms.

Low-Fat Dairy Products

Calcium is an essential nutrient for everyone, but this mineral becomes especially crucial for new moms, as women lose around 3 to 5 percent of their bone mass when breastfeeding. Calcium can be found in a variety of low-fat dairy products including milk, yogurt, cheese. Consuming about 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day help protect your bones as you breastfeed and give your little one a head-start on developing strong bones. 

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a filling and nutritious vegetable that should be incorporated into every new mom’s breastfeeding diet. These versatile and tasty vegetables are full of vitamin A, potassium, and various other nutrients. Vitamin A plays a role in infant growth and is important for the development of good vision and a working immune system. Just one sweet potato provides the daily recommendation for vitamin A, so enjoy this colorful veggie with the knowledge that you’re looking out for your little one.

Avocados

Avocados are a health food craze–and for good reason. These savory fruits are a wonderful source of healthy fats and can help moms feel full while providing tons of important vitamins and minerals like folate, potassium, and vitamins B, K, C, and E. Add avocado to your breakfast toast or atop a quick lunch salad for an extra boost for both you and your baby. 

Other Tips: Go Organic and Drink Water

New moms should also lookout for foods that may be contaminated with pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals. These substances can pass to your little one through your breast milk. Buy organic fruits, vegetables, and meat products whenever possible. You want to be sure that unwanted chemicals don’t make their way into your baby’s body. In addition to shopping for organic produce, moms should also drink enough water throughout the day. Your body is working hard to make sure your baby is fed! Try to drink a glass of water at each feeding and throughout the day to prevent dehydration–your little one needs you at your best!

Breastfeeding can be exhausting–as if pregnancy, labor, and delivery weren’t enough. But you can do this! Include these best foods for breastfeeding moms in your diet so you have the energy you need for nighttime feedings, pumping, and everything in between. 

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed with breastfeeding, you may benefit from a breast pump! And did you know that you can get a breast pump at little to no cost through your health insurance? Pumps For Mom is here to help you through the process of getting a breast pump through insurance. Fill out our easy-to-use form to find out what breast pumps you qualify for immediately!