For my own interest / education I would like to ask for opinions on hand
expression of breastmilk.
Most of the mothers I see return to work 2 mths. after delivery & most are
away from home for long hours.
I always recommend that they learn to hand express & only buy or rent a
pump if they have difficulties with hand expression.  Many of the mothers
who successfully breastfeed & work are hand expressing - it seems to be
very efficient  5-8 ozs. milk in 15-20 mins. for the experienced. They have
less expense, less to carry etc. Most are away from home for long hours.
        I have been corresponding with someone who suggested that I am the first
person she has come across who advocates hand expression in long term
situations. Am I missing something somewhere. There are few of us working
in lactation here but I feel most would advocate hand expression & we are
becoming somewhat concerned at the rate at which pump rentals are being
promoted to new mothers. It is tempting as it is a source of income, but I
feel it is rarely required in normal situations ie. healthy mom/healthy
baby.
We are starting to see mothers of newborns leaving hospital with a pump (&
a healthy baby) because they think a pump is necessary for breastfeeding.
Some are pumping & bottle feeding breastmilk- which usually results in
inadequate supply.
        Also for engorgement, I usually find hand expression to be much more
gentle & relaxing for mom.
I would  be really grateful for your comments. Hope tis is not a bad time
to put out a question as many of you will be off on holiday. Happy
thanksgiving to all Americans!!
I am really benefitting from all the discussions on Lactnet.
Thanks.
Christine Choong
SRN.SCM.IBCLC. Childbirth Educator
Malaysia-  Haze has gone -- rainy season is coming!