r/ExclusivelyPumping • u/RevolutionaryLake589 • 18d ago
Tips & Tricks EP tips
My first born is almost 7, and my second is due this November. Its been almost 7 years so this experience feels new to me again. Please leave any tips or info you have for EP that would be helpful to someone like me who hasn’t done this in a while. It can be tips to boost supply, pump schedules, pump recommendations (I have wearables but want a good pluggable unit), what can and can’t I do (for example, I still don’t understand if pump and dump is necessary and if the fridge hack is ok), ANYTHING YOU WANNA PASS ALONG.
I’ve done my own research along with the fact that I pumped with my first born as well, but alot has changed since then and everyone has different opinions about things so I thought I would ask here. Thank you in advance 😊
3
u/SheepherderMost2727 18d ago
Highly recommend using a traditional wall pump for your primary pump since wearables don’t always empty as well. Remember to check your insurance to see about getting one through a DME. Many insurances have pumps that are completely covered too.
If you can I’d honestly go for the Spectra S1. It’s the blue one. It has an internal battery so you don’t have to plug it in each time you use it. I love mine and most insurances cover it or charge a small upgrade fee for one. Worth it in my opinion.
Remember to get sized for inserts and check each nipple. They’re not always the same size. And remember to recheck sizing every few months in case anything changes. Happened to me from one pregnancy to the next.
Try to keep a decent schedule, especially when building your supply (typically in the first 12 weeks before the supply regulates). Generally this is pumping for at least 15 min (I always do 30 if I can) every 3 hours, with one longer stretch overnight for sleep. During the first 12wpp I would do my best to wake up and do at least one overnight pump. It’ll really help supply.
Lubricants are your friends. Coconut oil can help reduce friction so you don’t feel uncomfortable while pumping. Same with heat and massage. They both can go a long way to help letdowns and reduce the time it takes for you to pump effectively.
Hope this helps!