Exclusive Breast Pumping

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Just wondering who else exclusively pumps breast milk for their baby?

I have my first baby who is 7 weeks old and have found the lack of information and support online quite discouraging, especially considering how bloody hard it is to EP.

Everything seems to be aimed at either bf or ff. If I do find some info on pumping it's usually aimed at mothers who bf but just pump the excess milk.

Even knowing that there are other mothers who EP would be comforting (I know they exist but I feel alone, pathetic I know!) :)

I don't know but did for Ds1 until he was 6 months. It's hard going, lot of respect to you.

Sorry ds2 demanded attention, obviously I meant now not know.

The best advice I can give you is hire a hospital grade pump, especially for the early weeks, block pump to mimic cluster feeding to build supply and as tempting as it is, don't skip night pumping!

If you freeze your milk you might want to scold it first as freezing can change the taste which some babies dislike. Freeze a small amount first to try, so too much doesn't get wasted if refused.

I did for 2 months but gave it up when I developed a breast abscess, and it was a relief to stop, it is such hard work! Well done to you for keeping at it.
Kelly mom was the most useful site I think, with info on exclusively pumping and there are also a few Facebook groups which might help you feel less like the only one.

That is all really good advice thank you! :)

I haven't tried freezing milk yet but I imagine it's the best was to ensure it's always nice and fresh. Will have to give it a go and see how ds likes it. Plus willbe good to free some space in the fridge!

I was fortunate that my son's cleft nurse loaned me a hospital grade pump when I was pregnant. Didn't think I'd ever need to use it as had been assured in scans it was only a cleft lip. But it's been a Godsend.

Thank you Imicola. I'll check out that site thanks :)
Ouch poor you! I've had endless clogged ducts and mastitis twice but thankfully never an access. I think they develop from severe clogged ducts don't they?

Yes, they develop from blocked ducts /mastitis, so be careful on that! I should have gone to the doctors sooner, but didn't have the flu like symptoms or fever so thought it was still just a bog standard blocked duct that they wouldn't be able to help with. It was rather swollen and red, and very painful though, so I kick myself now for not realising.

There's some good FB groups, including a UK one called Exclusively Pumping UK Mums or something similar. I EPd for 12 weeks. Daughter is back to breast now, but it was a very tough start to life together!

Things that made it more bearable:
Handsfree pumping bra
Elvie cordless pumps (expensive but so convenient)
Sterilising wipes for easily cleaning pump parts overnight without getting out of bed!
A DP who was forever washing parts and bottles and bringing them to me

Oh and if you're not already, get on Sunflower Lecithin. Really prevents clogging.

I have tried to do this, I agree not much info & when I tell people or health advisors/midwives they all appear shocked 😮 ok so, I have been unable to exclusively pump I have had to pump & formula feed as I just don’t have enough time to pump & I don’t have enough milk to express. Get a double pump if you want to do this & you need to pump everytime your baby feeds to gain milk supply. Good luck x

Just wanted to pop back and thank you all for your helpful replies :)