Welcome! I’m Lisa. I exclusively pumped for 12 months with my daughter. During her first year, I made it my mission to research everything I could about pumping milk. I decided to document what I learned and create PumpingMamas to help other moms who found themselves in the same situation.
In 2020, I received formal training and became a Certified Lactation Educator Counselor. This means I’m qualified to teach breastfeeding education, just like the classes that you take in the hospital or online.
Those first few months were so difficult for me. I want you to know that you are not alone! I hope that the information I have for you
My daughter was a
After working with the Occupational Therapist on feeding, we discovered that she had a tongue and lip tie. We were unable to have it corrected until after she was discharged from the NICU. By that time, she was used to the faster flow of the bottle.
I was disappointed that nursing did not work out for us, but I was determined to provide breast milk for her. I wanted to give her all the benefits of breast milk, like helping to build her immune system, help her with her digestive issues, and make sure that she gained weight.
I realized there were several great things about exclusively pumping:
- I knew how many ounces she was eating
- My husband could help with night feedings
- I was already familiar with my pump when I went back to work
- I knew she would finish her bottle when I left her with a sitter
My daughter had a milk and soy protein allergy, so I went on a dairy and soy free diet while pumping. I also struggled with low milk supply and spent many hours researching and trying new things to increase my supply.
I pumped in all sorts of crazy places, including:
- In the car (both as a passenger and as a driver)
- On an airplane, and in the airport
- In the office at work
- At weddings (we had 4 to go to during my daughter’s first year)
- On the way to a movie premiere (my husband works in the entertainment industry)
I hope that you find the information on PumpingMamas useful during your pumping and breastfeeding journey. Feel free to reach out to me if you have questions or need support.
P.S. I also post lots of great pumping tips on Pinterest. You can find me here!