10 Breastfeeding Basics

Pumping takes practice and patience

If you're planning to go back to work (or to leave your baby for an extended period), you'll need to master your breast-pump technique ahead of time. Initially, some women find they can pump only a scant amount of milk, but like nursing, pumping does get easier after a while. So choose one or two times each day to pump right after you finish nursing and stockpile your supply in your freezer for your caregiver to use later. You can also use this stash if you aren't able to pump during the day after you go back to work.