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What is the combo breastfeeding and pumping schedule?

Understanding the Combo Breastfeeding and Pumping Schedule
Combining breastfeeding and pumping can be a practical solution for many new parents, allowing them to provide their babies with the benefits of breast milk while also accommodating their own schedules and needs. This approach not only helps in building a milk stash but also supports mothers who may need to return to work or want to share feeding responsibilities with partners.
Why Combine Breastfeeding and Pumping?
The primary reasons for adopting a combo feeding strategy include addressing low milk supply, creating a reserve of expressed milk for times when direct breastfeeding isn’t possible, and facilitating a smoother transition to bottle feeding. This method allows mothers to maintain a connection with their babies through breastfeeding while also enjoying the flexibility that pumping provides.
Creating a Schedule
Establishing a breastfeeding and pumping schedule requires careful planning to optimize milk supply and ensure that both mother and baby are comfortable. Here are some key considerations:
1. Frequency of Feedings: Newborns typically feed every 2-3 hours. If you are breastfeeding, aim to nurse your baby on demand, which can help stimulate milk production. When incorporating pumping, consider pumping after breastfeeding sessions to maximize milk extraction and build your stash.
2. Pumping Sessions: If you are exclusively pumping or want to increase your milk supply, aim for pumping sessions every 2-3 hours, similar to feeding times. This consistency can help signal your body to produce more milk.
3. Sample Schedule: A common approach might look like this:
– Morning: Breastfeed upon waking, then pump after the session.
– Midday: Breastfeed, followed by a pumping session.
– Afternoon: Pump if you missed a feeding or need to build your stash.
– Evening: Breastfeed before bed, then pump if desired.
– Night: Consider breastfeeding during nighttime feedings to maintain closeness and comfort.
Tips for Success
To successfully combine breastfeeding and pumping, consider the following strategies:
– Use an Electric Pump: An electric breast pump can be more efficient than a manual one, allowing you to express milk quickly and effectively.
– Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can significantly impact your milk supply.
– Prioritize Self-Care: Balancing the demands of breastfeeding, pumping, and caring for a newborn can be overwhelming. Make sure to take time for yourself to recharge.
Conclusion
Combining breastfeeding and pumping can be a rewarding experience that offers flexibility and convenience for new parents. By establishing a consistent schedule and following practical tips, mothers can successfully navigate this dual approach, ensuring their babies receive the nourishment they need while also accommodating their own lifestyles. This method not only supports the baby’s health but also fosters a nurturing bond between mother and child.

How to coordinate breastfeeding and pumping?

Breastfeed first.
It’s generally best to pump after breastfeeding. That way your little one can have their fill first, you’ll be able to empty your breasts fully after, and your breasts will have maximum time to refill before the next feed!

What is the combination schedule for pumping and breastfeeding?

If your baby is exclusively breastfeeding, try to mimic their feeding patterns when scheduling pumping sessions. For example, if your baby typically feeds every 2-3 hours during the day, you can aim to pump every 2-3 hours as well. This helps maintain a similar frequency and ensures regular milk removal.

Can I breastfeed during the day and formula feed at night?

At the same time, other moms may know from the get-go that they want to supplement with formula at night. There is no right or wrong, and it is okay to supplement your breastfed baby’s diet with formula!

What is a realistic breastfeeding and pumping schedule?

How to combine breastfeeding and pumping: A sample schedule

6 a.m. Breastfeed
1 p.m. Pump
3 p.m. Breastfeed
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Breastfeed/put baby to bed
10 p.m. Pump

How to combine pumping and breastfeeding?

On days when you’re with your baby, squeeze in a pumping session around an hour after you nurse and at least an hour before the next time you breastfeed — more demand means more supply. Some mums are able to pump from one breast while the baby is nursing on the other.

What is a reasonable pumping schedule?

When you have a newborn, you’ll need to pump about 8 to 12 times in 24 hours including in the middle of the night. You should aim for about 15 to 20 minutes for each pumping session.

What is the best routine for breastfeeding and pumping?

Q: What’s a good pumping schedule?

  • 7 a.m.: Wake up and nurse or bottle feed baby before dropping off at childcare. If bottle-feeding, pump milk.
  • 10 a.m.: Pump at work.
  • 1 p.m.: Pump at work.
  • 4 p.m.: Pump at work.
  • 7 p.m.: Nurse or bottle-feed baby.
  • 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.: Nurse or bottle-feed as needed.

Do I need to pump at night if I’m breastfeeding?

If you are exclusively breastfeeding and baby wakes at night and you feed them, then there’s no need to pump. You don’t need to add extra pumps at night. If you are exclusively pumping, it is recommended to pump during the night to help maintain your milk supply.

How often should I pump if I’m breastfeeding and pumping?

How often should I pump while breastfeeding to increase milk supply? If you’ve noticed your milk supply dropping, power pumping, and increasing how often you both nurse and pump could be just the thing. It’s recommended to pump or nurse 8-12 times a day if you’re struggling with low milk supply.

How often should I pump if combo feeding?

every 3 to 4 hours
“The key to maintaining one’s breast milk supply while combo feeding is to continue to either directly breastfeed or pump every 3 to 4 hours,” says Madden.’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘zi9nZ_fIOKHNwPAPgb3o0Ac__29′,’

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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