BREASTFEEDING BASICS
Pumping: Mastering pumping takes practice and patience

Pumping breast milk is essential for most mothers, especially if you want your baby to have it when you are apart and if you plan to return to work.

Texas Children’s Lactation Program is here to help new and experienced mothers with pumping with online information, phone and in-person consultations and breast pump rentals (including guidance on how to use the pump).

Pumping breast milk does take practice, but today’s breast pumps are much easier to use and more comfortable than those of the past. It’s worth the extra effort to give your child the first step toward a lifetime of healthy nutrition.

Pumping breast milk allows you to:

• Feed your hospitalized baby in Texas Children’s Newborn Center or another hospital

• Provide nutrition to your baby even if you’re not there, freeing you to return to work or go out of town

• Be sure your baby gets breastfeeding’s benefits even when you’re unable to nurse

• Increase or regulate your milk production

If your baby is a patient in Texas Children’s Newborn Center, the Mother’s Milk Bank offers a location to store your pumped milk for your baby’s use.