Expressing breast milk: a beginner's Q&A
When to start expressing, hand or pump, how to hand express, how to help milk flow, safe storage basics and sharing bottle feeds, answered simply.
By PreggieLover 3 min read
There are as many reasons to express breast milk as there are mums who do it. You might be returning to work, sharing night feeds, building your supply, feeding a baby in special care, easing full breasts, or simply wanting the freedom of an evening out. Whatever your reason, here are clear answers to the questions mums ask most.
When should I start expressing?
If your baby is feeding well at the breast, many mums wait until breastfeeding feels established, often after the first few weeks, before expressing regularly. If your baby is premature, unwell, separated from you or not feeding well, your midwife or neonatal team may encourage you to start expressing very soon after birth, often by hand at first. Follow their guidance.
Hand or pump?
Both work. Hand expressing costs nothing and is useful for the small amounts of early milk, called colostrum, and for easing engorgement. A manual pump is inexpensive and portable. An electric pump, single or double, can save time if you express often. Some hospitals and clinics lend or hire pumps, so it is worth asking.
How do I hand express?
- Wash your hands and have a clean container ready.
- Gently massage your breast, or hold a warm cloth against it, to help the milk flow.
- Place your thumb and fingers in a C shape a little way back from the nipple, around the edge of the darker skin.
- Press back towards your chest, then gently squeeze your thumb and fingers together. Release and repeat in a rhythm.
- When the flow slows, move your fingers around to a different part of the breast, then switch sides.
It may only be drops at first. That is normal. Ask your midwife to show you, as it is easier to learn by watching.
How much should I get?
Amounts vary hugely between mums, between sessions and at different times of day. Many mums find they get more in the morning. What comes out in a pump is not a measure of how much your baby gets from the breast, because babies are usually far more efficient than pumps. Try not to judge your supply by one session.
How can I help the milk flow?
- Find a quiet, comfortable spot and relax your shoulders.
- Look at your baby, or a photo or video of them, or smell their clothing.
- Use warmth and gentle massage before and during.
- Check that your pump flange fits well; it should not rub or pinch.
- Use a comfortable suction level, not the highest you can bear.
How do I store expressed milk safely?
Use clean, sterilised containers or milk storage bags and label each with the date. Store milk in the main part of the fridge, not the door, or freeze it if you won't use it soon. Safe storage times depend on the temperature and on whether the milk is fresh or thawed, so follow the guidance from your midwife, health visitor or national health service. Thaw frozen milk in the fridge or in a container of warm water, never in a microwave, and don't refreeze milk once it has thawed.
Can someone else give the bottle?
Yes, and many families find this a gift. A husband, partner, grandparent or friend can do a feed while you sleep. Paced bottle feeding, holding the baby fairly upright and letting her take breaks, can help a breastfed baby move between breast and bottle more easily.
What if expressing isn't working for me?
Some mums find expressing easy; others find it slow, uncomfortable or emotionally draining. If it is not working, talk to a lactation consultant or your health visitor, because small changes often help. And if you decide to use formula for some feeds instead, that is a loving, reasonable choice.
Bringing the worry to God
Philippians 4:6 invites us not to be anxious but to bring every request to God with thanksgiving. Expressing can turn into watching millilitres and worrying about every bottle. You are allowed to hand the numbers over to God, along with your hopes for feeding and your plans for returning to work. He cares about the details, and he cares even more about you.
A prayer while I express
Father, thank you for the milk my body makes and for every drop that nourishes my child. When I start counting and worrying, turn my heart back to you. Give me peace about what I can give, and gratitude for the help I have. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to only get a small amount when pumping?
Yes. Amounts vary widely between mums and sessions, and a pump is usually less efficient than a baby. A small amount from one session does not mean your supply is low.
How do I thaw frozen breast milk?
Thaw it in the fridge or stand the container in warm water. Never use a microwave, and do not refreeze milk once it has thawed.
This article is for general information and encouragement, not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor or midwife about your own health and your baby's.
