After giving birth, your duty as a mom can be extra demanding. From doing household chores, working, to taking care of your baby. It seems like you do not have enough time to do them all at once. That’s when the idea of getting a pumping bra kicks in your mind. It offers comfort and support and allows you to do multiple tasks at once.
A nursing bra for pumping offers multiple features, and it might be hard to navigate it, especially when it is your first time using it. In this guide, you will be able to discover how to use a nursing bra with a pump, how to wear it, and how to clean it after use. Knowing how to navigate this pumping bra can make a huge difference in your motherhood journey.
Understanding Your Pumping Bra Features
Before using your pumping bra, it is important to understand its design, function, and purpose. Understanding these can make your experience worthwhile. In contrast to ordinary nursing bras, these are designed to firmly accommodate breast pump flanges, providing you with a hands-free pumping experience.
Hybrid Purpose
- Nursing bra – It has a clip that is typically found on straps. It allows you to drop the other cup for easier breastfeeding access.
- Pumping bra – It is almost the same as the nursing bra. However, this one has a structure that is specifically designed for hands-free pumping.
Key Components
- Double-layer openings: This is where you can insert the pump flange without the necessity to take off your bra.
- Adjustable bands: Adjustable straps provide comfort to your breast as your size changes.
- Hook closures: They give you easy access to put on and take off your bra quickly.
- Breathable fabrics: These are made of cotton, which helps your body regulate temperature and avoid skin irritation.
Step 1: Put On Your Bra Correctly
A tight, exact fit is important when wearing a pumping bra. If the bra is loose, the flanges will slip, suction will fail, and your pumping session will be inefficient.
Fasten the band firmly.
- It should be tight around your ribcage so that the bra does not ride up.
Fit on the middle hook or the first hook.
- when new and tight to offer the needed tension. Note that the band must be straight and at the same time parallel to the floor surrounding your entire body.
Do the two-finger check.
- When you can stretch the band out, it is too loose and will not hold the pump securely.
Position the cups.
- Ensure that all your breast tissue is scooped completely into the cups.
Step 2: Attach Your Breast Pump Flanges
In this part of the procedure, you will activate the hands-free feature of your nursing bra with pump. Make sure that it is properly centered and fitted to your breasts for better pumping of milk.
Prepare your pumping bra.
- Connect your pump components, flanges, valves, and bottles, although do not attach the tubing at this stage. Keep the pump motor nearby.
Remove the outer cup clip.
- You can use your one hand to remove the nursing clip on the shoulder strap to completely drop the outer cup. At this point, the inner panel should be visible with an X-opening or circular slit.
Position the Flange
- Use the flange against your breast so that your nipple fits in the middle of the flange tunnel.
Put the flange through the opening.
- Using both hands, gently press the fling neck through the hole in the fabric (the X-slit or hole).
- Slightly stretch the fabric and check for the air gaps.
- Do the same procedure on your other breast.
Attach the tubing
- Once the flanges are correctly placed and you feel that it is securely sealed, put the tubing between the motor and the tops of the flanges.
Step 3: Start Your Hands-Free Pumping Session
After preparing everything, you can now begin with your pumping session.
Find a comfortable position.
- To begin, set your pump on a low suction setting. After this, slowly increase the suction level according to your convenience.
- In case you feel a little discomfort, stop for a while to make adjustments.
Check the alignment
- In case the pump is painful, the flange might not be aligned properly. Switch off the pump, rearrange the flange inside the hole in the bra, and then turn it on again.
Adjust the tension
- In case the flanges continue to slip, you might have a loose bra. Fit the back band to the following hook to give a tighter fit.
Step 4: How to Remove Your Pump Safely
Once you’re done using your pump, you should know how to remove it correctly to avoid milk spills and damage to your pumping bra.
Turn off and disconnect.
- Make sure you turn off your equipment before removing everything. This makes the vacuum pressure be released and it avoids any pain or irritation caused by suction.
- Detach the tubing carefully and keep the bottles in an upright position to avoid milk spillage.
Remove the flanges
- To do this, gently put your finger in the gap between your breast and the rim of the flange in order to press out the rest of the suction.
Reclip the Outer Cups
- Draw the drop-down detachable cup up and fasten it to the shoulder strap.
- Listen to the “click” sound of the product to ensure that it is already secured.
Tips for a Better Pumping Experience
Wearing your nursing bra is not only about wearing it properly. The following are some of the tips to ensure that every session is smoother:
- Get the right fit: Have yourself measured before buying a new bra. Go for a size that is not too tight and not too loose.
- Get a spare bra: Undergarments wear out if they are always used. Having an extra bra is recommended so you have something to use when the other one is getting cleaned.
- Clean your pumping bra: Regularly clean your pumping bra so it will last longer.
- Gently massage your breasts before pumping: This can help with the better flow of your milk and prevent clogging.
Conclusion
As you discover how to use a pumping bra, you will be able to utilize each of its features. This familiarity enables you to have a better hands-free pumping experience. Having the right fit, knowing how to clean it, and learning how to use it will make you feel supported as you breastfeed your baby. Pumping milk is not just about preparing milk for your baby; it’s also about creating a smoother and easier journey as a mother.
