Breastfeeding is one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences of new motherhood. It’s a journey filled with bonding, sleepless nights, and an entirely new appreciation for the phrase “liquid gold.” Colostrum, the first form of breast milk, is packed with nutrients and antibodies that help build your baby’s immune system. It’s truly a superfood for newborns, providing exactly what they need in their first days of life. But breastfeeding isn’t just about feeding—it’s about survival, learning, and adapting to the unpredictable nature of new motherhood.
My Experience: The Realities of Breastfeeding & Pumping
When I started breastfeeding, I had no idea how much of a mental, emotional, and physical challenge it would be. My daughter, Gwennie, was born prematurely and spent 55 days in the NICU. That meant I had to pump around the clock before we could even attempt to nurse. The NICU journey made me appreciate every single drop of milk I could produce—it truly felt like liquid gold.
NICU Life & Figuring Out Pumping
I started with a Medela Symphony Plus pump, which provided excellent hospital-grade suction. Once I transitioned home, I loved my Spectra S2 and the convenience of my Legendairy Milk Imani i2 Plus wearable pump for multitasking. Pumping while washing dishes or responding to emails? Game changer.
However, finding the right flange size was a journey. I ended up needing two different sizes, and I wish I had known sooner that pain while pumping usually means the fit is off. I went through multiple sizes before realizing how much comfort and output improved with the right fit.
Before giving birth, I attended breastfeeding classes—but they barely touched on pumping, something that would quickly take over my life. My first pump session? A discouraging 10ml from the left and absolutely nothing from the right. I felt defeated before I even really got started.
Some lactation consultants were kind and helpful, while others were… intense. But they all taught me something. I pumped at my baby’s bedside, at home, in the car—wherever I could. I logged every session, tracking every single drop, just praying my supply would grow.
The Products That Saved Me
Breastfeeding may be “natural,” but let’s be real—it requires tools! Here are my must-haves:
– Momcozy Hands-Free Pumping Bra – Because holding flanges for 30 minutes straight? No, ma’am.
– Storage Bags – Momcozy, Parent’s Choice (Walmart), and Motif (I got 300 free through insurance!).
– Breast Pumps – Spectra S2 (insurance-provided) and Imani i2 Plus Legendairy Milk Hands-Free.
– Haakaa Silicone Pump – A must-have for catching letdown from the opposite breast while nursing.
– Diaper Caddy – Keeps everything in one place for easy access.
– Nursing Pillow – Saves your arms when baby wants to nurse 24/7.
– Breast Therapy Packs – Warm them up to encourage letdown or cool them down for relief. I like these by Frida Mom.
– Silver Nursing Cups – Helps soothe sore, cracked nipples.
– Lactation Snacks – Oatmeal, lactation cookies, and protein bars for those crazy breastfeeding cravings! (More on that in my upcoming article on breastfeeding hunger and cravings —stay tuned!)
At first, I struggled to reach 20 ounces a day. It was frustrating. But then I learned that prolactin (the milk-making hormone) is highest in the early morning, so I dragged myself out of bed for those brutal 2 AM and 4 AM pumps. I drank so much water, battled that postpartum hunger, and kept reminding myself that every ounce was worth it.
Boosting Milk Supply: What Worked for Me
1) Breast Massage – Helps with letdown before feeding/pumping.
2) Heat Therapy – Warm washcloth, heating pad, or a hot shower before pumping.
3) Pump Every 2-3 Hours – Consistency is everything!
4) Power Pumping – 20 min pump, 10 min rest, 15 min pump, 10 min rest, 10 min pump (1-hour total). Do this for 5 days straight, then once a week.
5) Pump Between 2 AM – 5 AM – Your prolactin levels peak at this time.
6) Keep a Pumping Journal – Seeing my progress kept me going!
7) Hands-Free Pumping Bra – Absolute game-changer.
8) Pump After Nursing – Helps increase supply.
9) Use a Haakaa While Nursing – To catch and save that liquid gold.
10) Drink 100+ oz of Water Daily – Breastmilk is 75% water!
11) Pump After Skin-to-Skin Time – Your baby’s scent can trigger letdown.
12) Eat Lactation-Friendly Foods – Oatmeal, flaxseeds, brewer’s yeast, almonds.
13) Manage Stress – Stress will tank your supply. Deep breaths, mama!
These tips work! By the time we left the NICU, I had over 80 bottles of frozen milk. I had to clear out my entire freezer just to store it all. It was overwhelming, but also a tangible reminder of how far we had come. This was the beginning of my freezer stash. Breastmilk can be stored in a freezer for up to 6 months. However, it does lose nutrients the longer it has been frozen. I use my frozen milk within 3 months. We’ll talk about making soap, using it for baths, and other things in a future post.
The Benefits of Breastfeeding for Both Mom & Baby
Breastfeeding is often discussed in terms of what it does for the baby, but the benefits for moms are just as incredible:
– Bonding & Emotional Connection – Releases oxytocin, the “love hormone,” strengthening your bond with your baby.
– Faster Recovery – Helps the uterus contract and return to pre-pregnancy size.
– Health Benefits – Lowers the risk of postpartum depression, reduces the chances of breast and ovarian cancer, and can aid in weight loss.
The Importance of a Schedule & Giving Yourself Grace
Establishing a schedule helped me balance breastfeeding with my work and school life. My schedule looked like this: 5 AM, 8 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, 6 PM, 9 PM, 11:30 PM. This worked for me, but every mom’s routine will look different. The key? Consistency. It’s suggested that you pump or feed 8 to 10 times a day to maintain an adequate supply.
But here’s the truth: Some days, you won’t hit every session, and that is okay. As long as your baby is full, happy, and healthy, you are doing a great job!
Breastfeeding is a journey filled with highs and lows, but through it all, remember that you and your baby are a team. Give yourself grace, lean on your support system, and celebrate the little victories—because every drop of that liquid gold is worth it.
I’d love to hear your journey and tips—drop them in the comments!
Until next time,
Keep Living!
Love, Loren
Living with Loren 
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