I was determined with my son to breastfeed as long as I possibly could — mostly because the price of formula felt like a gut punch. 13 years earlier, with my first baby I was over it in 6 weeks and did not want to worry about pumping or anything when I went to back to work. So, not only was I feeling like a first time mom again, but I was a total student on this nursing journey.
As I neared my due date, I started to spend most of my time prepping myself and learning about nursing, pumping and all the ins-and-outs of this new adventure I was about to take. My boss, who has become a dear friend, instilled in me the belief that I could breastfeed, breastfeed well, and long term. I made it 18 months and I owe a lot of that to her and a few other friends. Luckily too – nursing was not that difficult with this baby. We had a few latch issues but resolved those with a little chiropractic care.
Going back to work proved to be a task with pumping. I carried my big spectra pump and charger, small bottles, a cooler, and ice pack in a large bag- plus snacks, the regular purse stuff… you know. SO MUCH STUFF. It didn’t take me long to feel like there was a better way. Thankful for the wonderful world of social media- I changed up my routine after following some Instagram mommas.
Here’s what I learned and what I’m doing better this time –
- You need a small pump. Seriously get yourself one. I used the spectra S9 to start with. It worked, but I wasn’t in LOVE with it. I didn’t feel it was strong enough, but like I said – it worked. This time I purchased the Baby Buddah. I debated back and forth with the pumpables genie pump. The baby buddah was reviewed to be a bit aggressive having a long “pull” suction so that was a negative. The only negative I could find with the pumpables genie was I didn’t love the size of it. So – I went with the Baby Buddah. So far – being a month into pumping I love it! It has a good strong suction. It can be a little aggressive, but it doesn’t bother me.
- Cup Containers. I don’t care to have the bottles hanging with a special bra – it just was so awkward for me. Researching I found “cups” — specifically legendary milk cups. They just sit in your bra and you hook up to them. Hands Free. Mobile. What I needed exactly! I also just found the Zomee Cups– so I’ll be trying those too. There are plenty of options out there!
- CeresChill Container. Last pumping adventure I’d pump into the little bottles or pour into a bottle. So many times I left them in the fridge at work or I’d forget them in the bag when I got home. You know that’s like liquid gold when your just producing enough. Before I started this pumping journey I found this container. Its amazing! It’s proven to keep the temperature. You could probably use a yeti or something, but I loved the set up of this container. Very worth the price so far!
Don’t forget to treat yourself to a cute bag to hold all the things in. I use a Sarah Wells bag because I had it from carrying the big pump last baby.
Anything you’ve found that has made your pumping journey easier?! I’d love to know so leave me a comment! Email me if you have questions or want more information – I’m here to support this journey with you!
Cheers!
Sheri