Integrated Maternal and Newborn Care Basic Skills Course ...

Figure 11.2. Preparing and using a syringe for treatment of inverted nipples.
(WHO, 1993)
EXPRESSING AND FEEDING BREAST MILK
There are many situations in which expressing breast milk is useful and important to enable a
mother to initiate or continue breastfeeding. The most useful way for a mother to express milk is
by hand. It needs no appliance, so she can do it anywhere and at any time. With a good
technique, it can be very efficient. It is easy to hand express when the breasts are soft; it is
more difficult when the breasts are engorged or tender. Many mothers are able to express
plenty of breast milk using unusual techniques, but if a mother's technique works for her, let her
do it that way. If a mother is having difficulty expressing enough milk, however, then teach her a
more effective technique.
How to Prepare a Container for Expressed Breast Milk
• Choose a cup, glass, jug, or jar with a wide mouth.
• Wash the cup in soap and water. (She can do this the day before.)
• Ideally, boil the cup for 10 minutes before use.
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Integrated maternal and newborn care
Basic skills course