Should I unpack breastpump before baby arrives?

Question

So I am planning on breastfeeding, but will be pumping as well (to have the option of bottle feeding, so my husband can participate in feeds starting at 3-4 weeks, for a supply if someone babysits her, etc).

I've had my pump since around week 33 (Medela PISA), but it's still sealed in the box.  I'm now wondering if I should go ahead, open it, clean/sterilize equipment, make sure the motor runs, etc before baby gets here? OR, should I just wait until closer to the time I plan on actually beginning to pump? Thoughts, anyone?

Answer

Definitely open and sterilize everything before use. You'll be too busy (and tired) with a newborn to deal with it then!

Answer

My friend just had her baby three weeks ago. She ended up getting engorged her baby was screaming because she couldn't latch so she had to pump. But didn't have it set up of cleaned and it was super stressful so she told me to make sure I have it all ready to go!

Answer

Get it out and sterilized!  You'll be told you don't need to pump because your body will make enough milk for your baby, but often times women have issues with low supply. My baby was born 9/16, and I'm struggling right now and have to suppliment with formula. I didn't have a pump, so the problem got much worse. Now I'm trying hard to increase my milk supply so I can stop with the formula. Bottom line- LOTS of women struggle with a low milk supply and pumping is the only way to increase.

Answer

I plan on doing the same.  I agree with th other poster to hold off on using the bottle for about a month.. but i dont think that  means you couldnt pump and start a small supply.  I opened my pump and washed sterilized all the parts.. and then put away.  I didnt check the motor. I should do that!

Answer

My cousin is a nurse and has done a lot of training with lactation. She told me if possible to avoid pumping for a few weeks first off until milk supply is more and also to not confuse baby switching from real 
Nipple to bottle nipple and hopefully avoid breastfeeding issues. I want to do what you're intending so my husband can feed as well but I'm going to wait about a month if at all possible so haven't opened my pump yet!!

Answer

I was wondering this too and I decided to clean and sterilize the pump and a few bottles to bring to the hospital with me incase the baby has any troubles latching or has to stay in the NICU at all I could still provide him with breast milk. I've also packed formula incase for any reason I struggle to pump or can't breastfeed. Better to have all the basis covered I think 😊

Should I unpack breastpump before baby arrives?

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