At My Expert Midwife, we know that feeding your baby is a full-time job, but so is being you. Whether you're planning a night out, heading back to work, or just wanting a few hours to yourself (yes, that’s allowed!), expressing breast milk can help give you the flexibility you need without interrupting your baby’s feeding routine.
Here’s how to manage pumping effectively, so you can make plans with confidence and peace of mind.
When to Start Expressing
According to NHS guidance, if breastfeeding is going well, you can start expressing milk once feeding is well established—usually around 6 weeks. But every mum is different. If you’re thinking about introducing a bottle of expressed milk earlier (for any reason), speak to your midwife or health visitor for guidance.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Pumping with Ease
1. Choose the Right Time to Pump
Start by picking a time when your breasts feel full, often mid-morning or after your baby’s first feed. Try to express at a similar time each day to help build a little extra supply.
2. Use a Pump That Works for You
You can use a hand pump, electric pump, or express by hand, whatever fits your lifestyle and comfort. A good pump should feel gentle, not painful. Make sure the pump fits well and always follow manufacturer's instructions on use and cleaning.
3. Store It Safely
Expressed milk can be stored:
- In the fridge for up to 8 days (at 5°C or lower)
- In the freezer for up to 6 months - label your milk with the date and time so you can use the oldest first.
4. Offer a Bottle Before You Go
Practice giving a bottle of expressed milk before your first time out. Some babies may need a few tries to get used to it, let someone else feed them while you’re nearby.
5. Plan Ahead for Comfort
If you’re out for more than a few hours, consider taking a small manual pump or hand expressing to relieve fullness and avoid leaks or blocked ducts. Have a tube of My Expert Midwife’s award-winning Nipple Balm to hand which helps your fingers to glide across the skin without damaging the delicate breast tissue when expressing.
Supporting Your Feeding Journey
Pumping isn’t just about going out, it’s about creating space for flexibility, confidence, and balance. Whether it’s a dinner out, a solo walk, or an afternoon nap while someone else takes a turn, remember: looking after yourself helps you look after your baby too.
If you need help building a routine or choosing a pump, speak with your midwife or health visitor, or drop one of our in-house Registered Midwives a message on our Call The Midwife function. We're here to support your feeding journey, however it looks.
