Exclusively pumping for TWINS
No one really tells you about pumping, and if they do, it doesn’t mean if it worked for them it’ll work for you…it’s not a “one size fits all” kind of journey.
Every journey is different, and no matter how you’re doing it (breastfeeding, EP, formula feeding).. you’re doing amazing. But here are some tips I’ve learned along the way EP for my twins who are 6 months old now.
1. Flange size!!! In the hospital they give you the “standard” 24mm flange and don’t talk more about how it fits or feels, and as a first time mom I had NO idea how it was supposed to feel or what was even supposed to happen. Buy the nipple measuring tool, or see a IBCLC and ask them to measure you. Too big or too small, not only will it hurt, but you won’t get great output either.
Also, use the nipple butter before and after!!
2. The first 12 weeks are so so important. Pump ALL the time. I pumped every time my kids ate in those first weeks, so every 2-3 hours I was pumping. Your milk supply is a supply and demand, the more you need, aka the more you pump, the more your body will make.
3. Hydrate hydrate hydrate. And not just with water. You need those electrolytes! Coconut water and diet cran-pineapple was my go to, honestly it still is. (Kinda tastes like a Malibu pineapple;) and make sure you’re fueling your body with all the good foodies!!
4. Try all the “hacks”. It doesn’t hurt. I tried the hot chocolate twice a day, the abuelitas was good but regular hot cocoa will do just fine. Oatmeal, the lactation snacks, Oreos…. I’m not sure if any of it actually worked but it settled my mind knowing I was trying to increase my supply.
5. Don’t stress. Obviously easier said than done. But seriously, stress doesn’t help you, your baby, or your supply. If you are doing your best for you and your babies, then there’s no reason to stress. So you accidentally missed a pump, or didn’t get as many ounces as you thought you would or that you did the day before, or baby didn’t drink it all and its “going to waste”.. that last one would get me but then I realized, well if they drank it then it would be gone either way so why stress about that. I stressed hard and the most anxiety about pumping in the beginning, and it’s not that I was against formula, but I so desperately wanted to be that source for my babies because I COULD.
6. Latch them if you want, or don’t. But snuggle those babies on your skin and embrace those newborn contact naps. You and they actually need it to regulate all the crazy stuff going on for you both.
7. Don’t rely solely on a hands free if you don’t have a strong supply. I rotate my hands free pumps, but with twins I definitely use them more some days. I need the strong suction my spectra could give me, but truthfully I always needed to help it out a little and give my boobs a little extra squeeze and support the bottles or they didn’t seal very well. But as an oversupplier, I don’t really notice a difference in my output if I use my medela freestyle all day and not my spectra.
8. Find what pump settings work for you. And it’ll probably change as your journey continues.
Currently with my spectra:
70 for 2-4 minutes
54 for 10 minutes
70 for another 2 if I need it
46 for 10-15 depending if I’m completely empty or not
I also sometimes do 70 for 2, and 46 for the rest. Alternating 70 if I need to.
There is no picture perfect way.
9. Power pump!! Remember how I talked about supply and demand earlier. This basically jump starts your body into saying “no seriously we need more”. My favorite way was to pump for 20 minutes (70 for 2-5, 54 for 5-10, 38 till you reach 20) take the pump off, light breast massage while you rest for 10. Then pump for 10. Another 10 minute rest, finished with another 10 minute pump.
10. Remember you’re a badass mom!!
No one journey is the same, if you have an undersupply, oversupply, just enough, decide that it’s not for you.. however this journey looks for you. Moms are rockstars and feeding your baby however that looks for you and your little and making sure you’re giving them the best version of you is top of the list.
#pumpingishard #pumpingjourney #exclusivelypumping #pumpingtips #pumpingmama
When it comes to exclusively pumping for twins, understanding your body and needs is crucial. Consider starting with the right flange size to prevent discomfort and maximize output. Seek a lactation consultant if needed. In the early days, frequent pumping, ideally every 2-3 hours, is vital for establishing a strong milk supply. Remember to stay hydrated, not just with water but also with electrolyte-rich beverages to support your milk production. Experiment with various 'milk-boosting' foods and drinks—many find success with staples like oatmeal and lactation snacks. Stress management is equally important; remind yourself that it's okay to have off days. Utilize skin-to-skin contact with your babies often, as it fosters bonding and emotional regulation for both parent and child. Tailor your pumping routine and settings to what feels best for you; flexibility is key in this journey. Lastly, praise yourself for every small victory, reinforcing that you are doing your best for your little ones!