Pump questions

[CuteLittleToes]

Soo I'd like to give it a go at pumping. Been actually advised by HV in attempt to speed up DS's weight gain, increase supply (although I don't think I have issues there) and possibly make him sleep a bit longer during the night (he's 12 weeks and sleeps 3 hours max and then wakes up pretty much every hour).

Anyway, I haven't done it before, and don't even have a pump at the moment, so a few questions:

1. I don't know how well it will go, so I'm getting a manual. I'm thinking either Avent or Tommee Tippee (they are half price in Boots atm - anyone tried both? Which is better? Any pros or cons? Anything to be aware of?
   

1. Do you need to sterilise pump/bottles? I've read somewhere that you only have to do it if feeding formula as there can be some harmful bacteria... Would just washing be enough if it's breast milk?
   

1. If you do need to sterilise, do you need a steriliser? Can you just boil stuff in a pot of water? How long for?
   

I think I had more questions in mind, but can't remember now...

TIA

[mrswishywashy]

I'm a maternity nurse and never had clients use either electric tommee or avent. One client had great success with the boots hand expresser.

Ive also read the study about not needing to sterilize bfing equipment however I do recommend to. Microwave sterilzers are good and also if you boil that's fine too. At least 5 mins of rolling hoik with lid off. I use a slotted spoon to take equipment out and air dry on paper towel.

Has midwife said when to express? I'd recommend expressing a couple of times in the morning and offering the milk in the evening.

[NomDeClavier]

I would recommend that you get a closed system electric pump if you want to boost supply. The Ameda Lactaline has been brilliant for me, very easy to clean and sterilise (which I do do, on the hob). I have an Avent manual that I can get off what's there but I can't trigger letdown.

[Mamabear12]

I use madela pump. Double electric. I have a good supply of milk and pump most of my feeds bc my son doesn't like my fast let down (sprays his face like a shower head).

[Bexmathews]

I use a Tommie manual pump and it works fine for me, it came with a microwave steriliser . I sterilise all parts and bottles. Very esy and quick to use :)

[CuteLittleToes]

Thanks for your replies. I was advised just as you said mrswishy - to express in the morning and give it in the evening.

I know electric ones are normally better, but I as I dont know how well it will work for me, and how often and how long I will be doing it, I don't want yo invest in one just yet. I do have good let down, so hopefully manual will be ok for now.

[Rhododendron]

NHS advice is to sterilise pump/bottles.

I have a Philips Avent, both manual and electric. I find it too hard work to keep pushing the manual, plus it doesn't have nearly as good suction but I may be using it wrong. With the electric, I get plenty of milk out on one breast but hardly any on the other; I haven't tried another pump so don't know if it's me or the pump that's the prob.

If doing it again I would consider first hiring a hospital grade pump (eg from the NCT).

Be warned that if your baby isn't used to taking a bottle you may find it very difficult to persuade him.