Exclusive Pumping Is Breastfeeding

exclusive pumping baby pro podcast revisit with w/ Nichelle Clark from Sonshine Rainbows
February 8, 2024/

Pumping is Breastfeeding w/ Nichelle Clark from Sonshine Rainbows

Exclusive pumping, while less commonly discussed than breastfeeding, is a significant part of many parents’ journeys. It presents unique challenges and requires dedicated support and education. In this Baby Pro Podcast Revisit, we’ll discuss the experiences and advice shared by lactation professionals and parents who have walked the path of exclusive pumping.

Meet Nichelle Clark: An Advocate for Exclusive Pumping

In this Baby Pro Podcast Revisit, Nichelle Clark, Mom and Founder of The Sonshine and Rainbows Lactation shared her personal experience as an exclusive pumper. As an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, Nichelle is passionate about helping parents navigate breastfeeding and chestfeeding challenges or overcome them should they arise. Her dedication to supporting parents shines through her insights and advice.

The Importance of Post-Hospital Support

“I just think that everybody breastfeeding should if they can get an, you know, a private consult at home after they leave the hospital, or all these things that come up that people might not ask when they’re in the hospital and exhausted, you know, just listening to this is like, this is all the more reason that everybody should have a home visit, you know, or three or four. Because you don’t know what you’re attending to your to prior to the hospital. You know, you don’t know exactly.”

Post-hospital support is crucial for parents navigating the world of breastfeeding and exclusive pumping. Home visits from lactation consultants can provide personalized guidance and address concerns that may arise after leaving the hospital.

Understanding Exclusive Pumping Challenges

“Yeah, you’ve had fluids. And now you get engorgement. And I have a lot of people who come and say, Oh, these are the flanges that they gave me in the hospital. They fit perfectly. Okay, well, you also had four bags of IV fluids doing birth, and you had engorgement, and now they don’t fit anymore? And that’s okay. Or people will say, well, one breasts is this size, but the other breast is this completely normal.”

Pumping challenges, such as flange fit and breast size discrepancies, are common experiences for exclusive pumpers. It’s essential to understand that changes in anatomy and pumping habits can affect equipment fit and milk output.

Tips for Exclusive Pumping Success

“I would say the top few things. The first thing is making sure once you get you a pump that is going to do the work is going to pull the long haul… So definitely get you a good pump one that has a very, you know, good motor, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be the highest suction when I say good motor. Also, I would say invest in multiple sets of flanges and collection bottles… And I think the last thing would be, and a lot of people don’t talk about this, it drives me that you have to change the valves.”

Investing in a reliable pump, having multiple sets of flanges and collection bottles, and consistently changing valves are key strategies for streamlining the exclusive pumping process. Additionally, utilizing hands-free pumping bras and incorporating chocolate as a potential oxytocin booster can enhance the pumping experience.

Navigating Pumping on the Go

“I recommend a hands free bra. For every single parent, I don’t care if you’re going to exclusively pump or you’re only going to pump at work, I recommend getting a hands free bra… You know, if you’re at work and your baby’s not with you, you can scroll your phone, watch Netflix while you’re pumping. And it just makes things a lot easier for the parents.”

Hands-free pumping bras and portable pumps enable parents to pump on the go, whether at work, traveling, or running errands. These tools provide flexibility and convenience, allowing parents to maintain their pumping routine while attending to other responsibilities.

Setting Realistic Pumping Expectations

“I think they know this. But I think that if you are considering exclusively pumping, absolutely reach out to a pump savvy lactation professional… So just feel empowered, and your decision and you do deserve support… we wish that everyone would be super supportive. But even if they’re not, they’re places and spaces for you to exist and to get the support you deserve.”

Setting realistic expectations and seeking support from lactation professionals are essential for exclusive pumpers. It’s important to recognize that exclusive pumping is a valid feeding method that requires dedication, but it’s also okay to seek assistance and advocate for oneself throughout the journey.

In conclusion, exclusive pumping is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor that requires support, education, and perseverance. By implementing practical tips and seeking guidance from lactation professionals like Nichelle Clark, parents can navigate the world of exclusive pumping with confidence and success. Remember, every parent’s journey is unique, and it’s essential to prioritize self-care and advocacy along the way.

In this episode, Nichelle Clark, Mom, Founder of The Sonshine and Rainbows Lactation and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant shared her experience as an exclusive pumper. Nichelle is very passionate and willing to help parents navigate and avoid some of the breastfeeding/ chestfeeding challenges or how to overcome them should they arise.

Highlights of the Episode:

  • What is exclusively pumping?
  • How to prepare for pumping in the hospital?
  • Recommendation for hands-free pumping.
  • Tips for moms who are exclusive pumpers.

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