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EN
When to express milk
If possible, wait until your milk supply and breast-feeding schedule are well established,
normally at least 2-4 weeks after birth, unless told otherwise by your doctor or breast-
feeding advisor. The exceptions are:
•
If you are expressing milk for your baby to be given in hospital.
•
If your breasts are engorged (painful or swollen). You can express a small amount
of milk before or between feeds to ease the pain and to help your baby latch on
more easily.
•
If you have sore or cracked nipples and you may wish to express your milk until
they are healed.
•
If you are separated from your baby and wish to continue to breast-feed when
you are reunited. You should express your milk regularly to stimulate your milk
supply.
Right times of the day to express your milk:
•
Early in the morning when your breasts are full, just before or after your baby’s
first feed.
•
After a feed, if your baby has not emptied both breasts.
•
Between feeds or in a break if you have returned to work.
