NICU Parents Guide for Pumping and Breastfeeding

Pumping Basics

Establishing Your Milk Supply • The best ways to establish and maintain a good milk supply is to pump as often as you would nurse a newborn baby. • You should begin pumping as soon as possible after delivery, within 6-12 hours. The hospital will provide a pump for use during your stay. • It is best to pump with a hospital grade breast pump and a double pumping kit, so you can pump both breasts at the same time. These breast pumps are available in stores for purchase and can also be rented. Plan to rent a hospital grade electric breast pump at least until your due date plus one month. If you are on WIC you may be eligible to be supplied a pump for use while your baby is in the NICU, ask your baby’s nurse for details.

Preparing to Pump Your Milk • Wash your hands before pumping to keep germs from getting into your milk. • You may want to apply a warm moist towel over your breast and/or massage your breasts gently from the chest wall toward the nipples before pumping, covering all areas of both breasts. Warmth and massage will help with your milk flow and supply.