When I had both of my babies, I was blessed with milk for days. I was lucky in that way because my plan was to provide the milk as long as my body would let me. Be it with a breast pump or traditional breastfeeding I was determined. With my first born, I even contemplated selling the surplus. If you already don’t like what you’re reading, then don’t read what’s next… I even threw some away… I know that is terrible, but I had so much it went bad!
With both children, I pumped early and often. I started in the hospital both times because my first was a premie and my second was not gaining weight as quickly as they wanted to see. So, post C-Section surgery I was strapped to listening to that unforgettable noise. If you’ve ever pumped before you know what I’m talking about.
Fast forward a few months, to being home with baby and having a semi-regular schedule, I dutifully pumped multiple times a day. And with BOTH babes, my body felt the weirdest things right before I was about to pump and while I was pumping.
Before Pumping
- I had to use the bathroom URGENTLY! No matter what, the moment I started to head for my breast pump, my bladder decided it was time to go.
- My boobs leaked. Women’s bodies are amazing, even if the baby wasn’t ready to eat my body just knew that I was about to get my pump on.
During Pumping
- My Armpits hurt. Its like I could feel the milk being pulled out from deep within my armpits!
- I was itchy. This was mostly in my armpit but would trickle down my chest.
- I had pains in my breast. I’ve read that this happens to some women and can be for a number of reasons like Thrush, blocked milk duct or too strong of suction from the breast pump.
- My veins bulged. Yes, this happened with pregnancy and carried on through breastfeeding, but when I got hooked up to that breast pump my veins lit up like a Christmas tree!
Post Breast Pump Feelings
Ok so there is nothing unusual to note here. But I have to say there were some positive feelings associated with pumping as well, both physically and emotionally.
- Feeling lighter.
- Feeling less pressure in the chest.
- Self-satisfaction – knowing that I could continue to provide milk (As I said, I was lucky that I had that experience).
- Relief of being done! Those 20 minutes on the breast pump every few hours were not always fun for me.
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