Shannon Lewis opened up about her journey with exclusive pumping on her Instagram story, sharing a candid glimpse into the challenges she faces as a new mom. Sitting on the bathroom floor in the wee hours of the night, she was busy with her breast pump, revealing that “EP life means never a full night of sleep.” For those unfamiliar, “EP” refers to exclusive pumping—a method where moms pump breast milk at regular intervals to feed their babies, often using bottles.
The Commitment of Exclusive Pumping
Shannon’s experience resonates with many moms who find exclusive pumping to be a time-consuming commitment. According to lactation consultant Rebecca J. Smith, it often involves pumping eight to twelve times a day, which definitely includes those late-night sessions. Nighttime pumps are crucial, as they help maintain milk production levels. As lactation expert Lily Monroe explains, the highest milk supply usually occurs between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., so missing out on this window can impact a mother’s supply.
Resources for Moms
If you’re curious about the ins and outs of exclusive pumping, you can dive deeper into related experiences and expert advice on our other blog here. It’s important for moms to get the support they need, and if you’re considering your options for getting pregnant, you might want to check out this article for guidance. For more resources on pregnancy and home insemination, this site is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
In summary, Shannon’s candid sharing highlights the reality of exclusive pumping, shedding light on the dedication required and the importance of nighttime sessions for maintaining milk supply. It’s a journey filled with challenges, but also one of resilience and support for fellow moms navigating similar experiences.