Breastfeeding the second time around is definitely harder than the first time. When I gave birth to my daughter over three years ago, I was fully prepared for the whole nursing experience. I thoroughly did my research. There were a few hiccups along the way, but the experience was an overall success. After giving birth to my son last July, I was met with a few more challenges. But, being able to pump has been a key factor in making nursing possible both times.
When you’re a first time mom of one, all of your attention is given to one child. However dividing time between a preschooler and an infant is a whole other ball game. My life is a constant juggling act, and nursing is no different.
I dealt with cracked and sore nipples – not to mention many sleepless nights with Princess. Round the clock nursing sessions became a normal routine, and it’s been the same with Baby O.
Chafed nipples are no longer an issue, but I’m still nursing 24/7 it seems. I’m usually breastfeeding during the night, when my son wakes up in the morning, before I drop him off at day care, and when I get home from work. Despite my busy schedule, I’ve found ways to make sure my baby gets the nutrition he needs. If for some reason I’m unable to nurse Baby O, I pump and store milk in the refrigerator. I even have a stash in freezer just in case my supply runs low.
Other moms have asked me how I do it all. Sometimes I wonder that myself. But in all honesty, finding a routine and sticking to it has helped me tremendously.
Pumping has become an integral part of my breastfeeding experience. Since returning back to work from maternity leave, Baby O has been going to daycare. I normally pump about four times a day. The breast pump that I’ve had for the past three and a half years has held up pretty well. However, it almost went dead not too long ago. It seemed like the motor was about to give out, which made me realize the importance of having multiple pumps. Through the Affordable Care Act, I was able to get a free electric pump, which I’ve been using as a back up.
I recently received a third one, the Lansinoh Signature Pro Double Electric Breast Pump, and it has quickly become one of my favorites.
Courtesy Lansinoh
With a hectic schedule, the timer displayed on the LCD screen helps me to stay on track. The adjustable modes make pumping comfortable. I also noticed I’m able to express more milk than the other pumps I’ve used. Even though it doesn’t come with a cooler, it does include a tote bag. I love that it’s light-weight and easy to carry around. I also have the option of being able to pump one breast at a time – talk about convenience!
When I’m pressed for time and need to pump, the Lansinoh Simple Wishes Hands-Free Pumping Bra comes in handy, and offers a comfy fit. I’m able to multi-task easily. Most days I’m applying makeup while pumping.
Courtesy Lansinoh
I’m able to pump directly into the Lansinoh bottles, attach the collar and sealing disk, and store in the fridge for later. Sometimes I’ll attach the NaturalWave Nipple for Baby O to drink from when I’m at work.
It took a while for him to get accustomed to it though. Switching to the fast flow nipple has alleviated the problem. The Natural Wave nipple allows for the same sucking actions a baby learns while breastfeeding, which lessens the chances of nipple confusion and gas.
Despite a crazy schedule, my second nursing experience has turned out pretty ok so far. I can’t believe Baby O is already seven-months-old! Hopefully, we’ll make it two years again.
In the spirit of nursing and pumping, Lansinoh will be giving away a Signature Pro Double Electric Breast Pump (~$149), Lansinoh Simple Wishes Hands-Free Pumping Bra (~$35), and a Lansinoh bottle with NaturalWave Nipple (~$17) to one of my readers. Be sure to follow the instructions below to enter, and stay tuned to more Lansinoh product reviews. In the meantime, check out this Lansinoh video for more pumping info.
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A special thanks to Lansinoh for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.