Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but that doesn’t mean it comes naturally to every mum. It can be a challenge even in the best circumstances, and when your baby arrives prematurely, the experience can feel overwhelming. The emotions, exhaustion, and the pressure to provide the best start for your baby can make expressing milk a stressful process.
That’s why I’m launching “Pumping for Preemies”—a campaign to support mums navigating this journey, offering resources, encouragement, and practical help. I want every mum to know: you are not alone, and every drop of milk you express is an incredible gift to your baby.
Why Breast Milk Is So Important for Premature Babies
When babies are born prematurely, their digestive and immune systems are still developing. Breast milk provides essential nutrients that help their growth, support brain development, and protect them from infections—something that is especially crucial for preemies who are at higher risk of complications.
Even if your baby is too small to breastfeed directly, expressing your milk can make a huge difference. In many neonatal units, mums’ expressed milk is considered medicine because of how vital it is for a preemie’s development.
But let’s be honest: expressing milk isn’t always easy.
Expressing Milk: The Challenges and How to Overcome Them
For many mums, expressing milk can feel daunting. Whether it’s difficulty getting your supply going, struggling to maintain it, or simply feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, these challenges are very real. Here are some key tips that helped me and many others:
1. Use a Hospital-Grade Pump
Hospital pumps are often much more efficient than standard ones, especially when you’re establishing your supply. Many hospitals have pumps available for use on the ward, and some charities or pharmacies offer rental options for at-home use.
2. Pump Regularly, But Don’t Stress About Output
In the early days, you might only express tiny amounts, and that’s completely normal. Your body is still adjusting, and every drop truly counts. Aim to express every two to three hours, mimicking a newborn’s feeding pattern, but be kind to yourself—stress can impact supply, so do what works for you.
3. Look After Yourself
I found that oats and flapjacks were a lifesaver for me. Oats are known to help boost milk supply, and I needed the sugar to keep my energy levels up. Hydration is just as important—drink plenty of water, tea, or whatever helps you feel your best.
4. Skin-to-Skin Contact
If possible, spend time doing kangaroo care—holding your baby against your skin. Not only does this help with bonding and regulating your baby’s temperature, but it can also stimulate milk production. If your baby isn’t well enough to be held, even looking at photos or videos of them while pumping can help.
5. Seek Support
Expressing milk for a premature baby can be emotionally and physically exhausting. You don’t have to do it alone. Speak to neonatal nurses, lactation consultants, or support groups. There are also online communities where mums share tips, encouragement, and solidarity.
What If Expressing Doesn’t Go to Plan?
One of the biggest messages I want to share through “Pumping for Preemies” is that any amount of breast milk is valuable—but your mental and physical well-being matter too.
If expressing becomes too stressful or your supply doesn’t increase as much as you hoped, please don’t blame yourself. Formula or donor milk can also provide your baby with the nourishment they need. You are doing your best, and that is enough.
Pumping for Preemies: A Campaign to Support Mums
I’m currently working on resources to support mums who are expressing for their premature babies and am reaching out to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) across the UK to ensure that parents have access to the information and reassurance they need.
If you’d like to get involved, whether by sharing your experience, offering support, or helping spread awareness, I’d love to hear from you.
➡ Follow my journey and join the campaign!
➡ Sign up for updates and resources to help you through the expressing process.
You are not alone. Whether you manage to express for days, weeks, or months, every bit of effort you put into feeding your baby is an act of love. Let’s support each other through this journey.
💜 You’ve got this, and we’ve got you. 💜
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