
*This conversation is sponsored by Motif Duo Breastpumps but as always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Sincerely Onyi.
The Motif Duo Double Electric Breast Pump
I don’t like to toot my own horn but (Toot Toot!) I like to think of myself as an expert when it comes to pumping at work. I’ve exclusively pumped for my 2 little guys (currently on month 6 of baby number 2), and I have it down to a science. No matter how seasoned you are, it’s possible that the transition in your schedule can disrupt your milk supply.
You want to start with the right tools and your breast pump will soon become your next best friend. I had the chance to try out the Motif Duo Double Electric Breastpump and I must say, she is small but mighty. The Motif Duo is the perfect duo for busy moms. I should know, I’ve used over 6 different pumps in my pumping career (it feels like another job?), from hospital grade to portable pumps. The Motif Duo is up to the challenge. For me, comfort is key while pumping. That translates to a breast pump that suckles, not sucks.The Motif Duo comes with 3 different sizes of flanges (27mm, 24mm, and 21mm). This is perfect for all moms who are breastfeeding, as I learned, appropriate sizing can affect the breast emptying completely, which in turn affects milk supply.
The Motif Duo is as quiet as a mouse and small enough to fit in your purse. The only thing I would love to add to this pump is a belt clip to help us with mobility while pumping. Of course, this doesn’t take away from the amazing versatility of this pump. Now let’s focus on keeping your milk supply popping with the right breastpump.
10 Essential Tips For Increasing Milk Supply
If you are a breastfeeding or exclusive pumping, you know that every drop of milk is hard work.When maternity leave ends and you have to adjust to a new schedule, it can be the primary cause of a decrease in supply. If you struggle with producing enough milk, check out these 10 tips for increasing milk supply listed below!
Lactation Treats
This is a great way to treat yourself by enjoying a sweet treat throughout the day and help increase your supply. Mrs. Patel’s lactation treats have ingredients in them that help gives you that boost to produce more milk. They have teas and a variety of bars that are wonderful. The bars have premium ingredients, one being fenugreek, it is an herb that is used for lactation! Below I have the recipe for my easy Oatmeal Lactation cookies. Check them out, they are awesome! Plus you can sneak in some Mrs.Patel’s Munch Crunch for an extra boost.
Sleep
This is hard when you have a newborn, but adequate sleep can help your milk supply. See if you can nap when the baby does and skip that pile of laundry, or take turns at night or during the day. If you are not getting at least 3-4 hours, you’re not going to produce adequate milk.
Water Intake
When you notice you are not producing enough make sure to look at how much you are drinking. Water is great for increasing breast milk supply and often gets overlooked.
Pump After You Nurse
If you will be heading back to work soon, try pumping after you nurse your baby, to start a routine. It will also help increase your milk supply for the babysitter. If you are a stay at home mom pumping after you nurse also helps boost production and gives you more milk supply on hand.
Warm Up
If you didn’t know, the cold can be a cause of let down. So try to take a warm shower or bath right before you nurse or pump. This will help increase your supply and you will produce more milk. If you are out then trying to bundle up and get some heat before you begin pumping. Even applying a warm compress before you nurse or pump can be a huge help.
Right Bra
Wearing a bra that is too tight can compress your breast and reduce your milk supply and lead to clogged ducts. Try to make sure your bra fits but isn’t too tight. This is why our pumping bras come without wires, but they don’t have to be unattractive. Check out this bra, it was a perfect addition to my lingerie collection.
The Right Foods
Add some special foods to your diet to help boost that supply. Oats, garlic, nuts, salmon, spinach, flaxseed, are all great in helping give you that boost. Incorporate them into your meals and snacks. You can even find recipes for lactation cookies on Pinterest that are great for helping.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
I know you might need caffeine to stay awake, but it could be the culprit. Try to decrease your caffeine and alcohol intake. It can dehydrate your body, resulting in a decrease of milk. A cup or two of soda or coffee a day is probably okay, but much more and you might run into some issues.
Don’t Skip
Don’t skip those feedings or pump sessions. If you are trying to increase your supply let your baby feed longer or pump when it is time for a feeding. Don’t let your body get used to skipping pumping or feeding, that can lead to a pretty good decrease in your supply. If you are out, make sure to take your pump with you so you can do this while you are out and about.
Power Pump
This one can be hard to do but trust me it is a lifesaver. What you do is pump for 10 minutes, and then break for 10 minutes, and repeat this process for a full hour. Do this at night before bed, first thing in the morning, or when your baby is sleeping next to you.
Ok Momma, just know that no matter where your milk supply is: As long as baby is fed, you are golden
Do you get anxious when your milk supply takes a dip?
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