The weird things that happen right before and when I am pumping breast milk

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

1. 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.
2. 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

1. My Armpits hurt. Its like I could feel the milk being pulled out from deep within my armpits!
2. I was itchy. This was mostly in my armpit but would trickle down my chest.
3. 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.
4. 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.

1. Feeling lighter.
2. Feeling less pressure in the chest.
3. Self-satisfaction – knowing that I could continue to provide milk (As I said, I was lucky that I had that experience).
4. Relief of being done! Those 20 minutes on the breast pump every few hours were not always fun for me.