Things to do While Breastfeeding or Pumping: 13 Secrets!
There are many things to do while breastfeeding or pumping. In fact, there are so many things that it can be hard to know where to start! That’s why we put together this list of 10 things that you can do while taking care of your little one. From watching TV to catching up on work, there is something for everyone on this list. So, what are you waiting for? Start reading and get inspired!
Bonding with Your Baby
There are many benefits to bonding with your baby while breastfeeding or during pumping session. It can help you feel closer to your baby, and it can also help you in more milk production. Breastfeeding or pumping can also provide a way for you to bond with other mothers who are doing the same thing. Here are some things you can do while breastfeeding or pumping:
1. Hold your baby close while you breastfeed or breast pump. This skin-to-skin contact can help you feel more connected to your baby and can also help your baby bond with you.
2. Look into your baby’s eyes while breastfeeding or during pumping session. This eye contact can help you feel more connected to your baby.
3. Talk to your baby while you breastfeed or pump. This can help your baby feel more connected to you and can also help stimulate your breast milk production.
4. Sing to your baby while you breastfeed or pump. This can be a calming and enjoyable experience for both of you. It also increases breast milk supply.
Using Pumping Bra
A hands-free pumping bra is an essential item for any breastfeeding mother who plans to pump breast milk. It allows you to breast pump without having to hold the pump flanges in place, freeing up your hands to do other things.
There are many different styles of hands-free pumping bras on the market, from simple sports bras with built-in pump flanges to more elaborate dresses and tops with built-in pumps. You can even find nursing tanks with built-in pumps, which are great for breast pumping at night while you sleep.
No matter what style you choose, a hands-free pumping bra will make your life as a breastfeeding/breast pumping mother much easier.
Wearing A Nursing Cover
There are a few things to do while breastfeeding or pumping to make the experience more enjoyable. One is to use a nursing cover. Nursing covers provide privacy and allow you to be more comfortable while breastfeeding or pumping breast milk in public. They also help to protect your baby from exposure to germs. There are a variety of nursing covers available, so you can find one that suits your needs.
Utilizing A Nursing Sling
A nursing sling is a great way to keep your baby close while freeing up your hands. You can use a nursing sling to breastfeed, pump, or even just bond with your baby. To use a nursing sling while breastfeeding, simply position your baby in the sling so that they can latch on. The fabric of the sling will support your baby and allow you to have your hands free.
You can use this time to read, text, or even take a nap! If you need to pump while wearing your baby, most slings have a built-in pocket that you can use to hold your pump. This way, you can multi-task and get things done while still providing your baby with the nutrition they need.
There are many different types of nursing slings on the market, so be sure to do your research to find the one that best suits your needs. And don’t forget, you can always ask a lactation consultant for help in choosing the right sling for you and your baby.
Using Lactation Massager
There are many benefits to massaging the other breast while breastfeeding from one breast. First, it can help increase milk production. Second, it can help relieve engorgement and discomfort. Third, it helps to empty the breast more completely, which can reduce the risk of infection. Finally, it can be a bonding experience for both mother and child.
There are many things you can do while breastfeeding or pumping, but one of the most important things is to use a lactation massager. A lactation massager can help increase milk production, reduce pain, and improve overall comfort while nursing.
There are many different types of lactation massagers on the market, so it is important to find one that is comfortable for you and your baby. Some massagers are designed to be used while nursing, while others can be used while breast pumping. You may also want to consider a portable lactation massager so you can use it wherever you are.
Using a lactation massager is a great way to improve your breastfeeding experience and make it more comfortable for you and your baby.
Enjoying your Food
It is perfectly fine to eat while breastfeeding or pumping as it enhances human milk supply. In fact, it is recommended that you eat a nutritious diet while nursing in order to keep up your energy and produce healthy milk supply for your baby. There are a few things to keep in mind when eating while breastfeeding or pumping, however.
First of all, try to avoid foods that are likely to cause gas or indigestion in your baby. These include spicy foods, dairy products, and caffeine. Secondly, make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids, as nursing can be dehydrating. And finally, try to eat small, frequent meals rather than large ones, as a full stomach can make it difficult to position your baby correctly for nursing.
Here are a few ideas for quick, healthy meals that you can eat while breastfeeding or pumping:
- A bowl of whole grain cereal with fruit and milk
- A PB&J sandwich on whole wheat bread
- A yogurt or fruit smoothie
- A salad with grilled chicken or fish
- Soup and a piece of whole grain bread
- A veggie wrap with hummus
- A rice and bean bowl with salsa and guacamole
- A piece of fruit and a handful of nuts or seeds
- A turkey or tuna sandwich on whole wheat bread
- Leftovers from the night before!
Keeping Yourself Hydrated
One of the most important things to do while breastfeeding or pumping is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids will not only help you produce more breast milk and increase milk supply, but it will also keep you feeling energized and healthy. Dehydration leads to decrease milk supply and production. Less milk supply is definitely an issue when it comes breast milk.
Try to drink eight glasses of water or other fluids each day, and avoid caffeinated beverages if possible to increase breast milk. This is important both in the case of pumped breast milk as well as breastfeeding. If you’re having trouble getting in your fluids, try carrying a water bottle with you or keep a pitcher of water next to your pump.
Reading Books
Reading books while breastfeeding or pumping can have many benefits for both mother and child. Breastfeeding provides important nutrition and antibodies for the baby, and pumping allows the mother to maintain her milk supply. Reading can help to relax and focus the mind, making breastfeeding or pumping a more enjoyable experience. It can also provide a much-needed break from the demands of caring for a young child.
In addition to the benefits for the mother, reading books while breastfeeding or pumping can also be beneficial for the child. Reading aloud to a baby can help to stimulate their developing mind and promote bonding between parent and child. It can also be a calming and soothing activity for both mother and baby.
You can visit Amazon Kindle if you have an account or you can also check the free trial as well. Other than that, there are many Apps online that are good options for reading.
Listening to Audible Books
Listening to audible books while breastfeeding or pumping can be a great way to pass the time and keep your mind occupied. It can be difficult to find time to read after having a baby, so listening to audiobooks is a great way to stay up-to-date on your favorite titles.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an audiobook to listen to while breastfeeding or pumping, such as picking a book with shorter chapters so you can easily pause and resume listening. You might also want to consider avoiding books that are too suspenseful or emotional, as they could make it difficult to concentrate or relax.
Amazon Audible offers a lot of awesome audible books for you to listen. Sign up there and enjoying breastfeeding!
Watching Television
Most people think that watching television while breastfeeding or pumping is impossible, but it can be done! Choose the Amazon Prime Trial Version to experience this thing. Here are some things you can do to make it work:
Get a comfortable chair: You’ll be sitting in this chair for a while, so make sure it’s comfortable! A reclining chair or nursing stool will help you to be more comfortable and relaxed while you watch TV.
Set up your TV and breastfeeding/pumping equipment: Make sure your TV is at a comfortable viewing height and angle, and that your breast pump or breastfeeding pillow is within easy reach.
Choose a quiet show: A noisy, action-packed show will likely be more distracting than relaxing. Choose a show that you can easily follow without getting too wrapped up in it.
Connecting with Family and Friends
One of the great things about modern technology is that it allows us to stay connected with loved ones even while we’re busy taking care of a baby. So if you’re breastfeeding or pumping and feeling a bit isolated, make sure to reach out to friends and family members via phone, email, or social media. You might be surprised at how much even a short conversation can brighten your day.
And if you’re worried about disturbing your baby while you’re chatting, don’t be! Breastfeeding or pumping is the perfect opportunity to multi-task and catch up on some much-needed adult conversation.
Exercising/Stretching
There are plenty of things to do while breastfeeding or pumping, even if it feels like you’re stuck in one spot. One great way to make use of that time is to get some exercise in. Stretching or doing some light calisthenics is a perfect way to stay active while still being able to feed your baby.
Not only is it a great way to stay in shape, but exercise can also help you produce more milk. So if you’re looking to boost your output, working out while you breastfeed or pump is a great strategy. Plus, it’ll help you relieve any built-up tension from sitting or standing in one place for too long.
So next time you’re stuck nursing or pumping, don’t just sit there idly. Use that time to get some exercise in and improve your health in the process. Your body will thank you for it.
Playing Games on your Phone
One great way to pass the time while breastfeeding or pumping is to play mobile games. There are tons of great games out there that can be played one-handed, so you can keep your baby latched on while you play. Some of our favorites include Candy Crush, Words With Friends, and Farmville.
Not only will playing games help the time pass, but it can also help you to relax and de-stress, which is important for both you and your baby. Even if you are into using a breast pump, begin pumping and simply enjoy your time!
Conclusion!
All in all, there are many things to do while breastfeeding or pumping, including reading, watching TV, working on your laptop, and even sleeping. However, it is important to be aware of how to do these things safely so that you don’t put your baby at risk. Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider before doing any of these activities to make sure they are safe for you and your baby and to make more milk.
