Comfort is Key

What can a new mom do to make sure that she doesn't stress out her back and shoulders while pumping? Comfort, by the way, is key when you are pumping and breastfeeding,  just like it is when you were pregnant.  Especially if  you are pumping every 1.5-3 hours at work every day.  Say no to pain in your shoulders, arms and back,  and get comfy.  Pull up a supportive chair, get your feet up, pad yourself with pillows, take a deep breath.  Try not to tense your shoulders or hands.  Sit as straight as you can to avoid hunching over your pump.  For some moms let-down during pumping is a breeze and the milk flows...for others it takes a little longer, requires a bit more concentration. Be patient...and try some of these pumping position basics:

• Find a private, relaxing place
• Sit in a comfortable chair, rocker, or couch with good back support
• Support your back and arms with pillows- as many as you need
• Get a breastfeeding pillow which will support the weight of the baby's body and take a lot of stress off of your back and arms
• Use a Medela Nursing stool to elevate your legs and decrease stress on your back
• Keep yourself from hunching over while pumping
• If using a manual pump try not to over work your arms or hands
• Playing relaxing music, looking at a photo of your baby, or holding a favorite item of your baby's can all help promote let-down
• Don't pressure yourself by staring at the clock while you are pumping
• Imagine that you are holding and rocking your baby