it’s a process
For me, a “normal” breastfeeding session looks like this: I start by getting one nipple shield and one pump assembly ready. I take a small amount of nipple cream and rub it along the back side of the nipple shield, then adhere it to my breast. While doing this, I squeeze the tip of the nipple shield to create better suction, pulling my flat areola up as much as possible.
Next, I spray the interior of my pump flange with pumping spray and get one cotton round ready. If it is the first morning session, I will get a pair of regular nursing pads ready as well—and if it is the last evening session before bed, I will get a pair of overnight nursing pads ready.
I then insert my pump flange into my pumping bra over my right breast (I love this bra because it doubles as a regular nursing bra, too). I will grab my nursing pillow, get comfy in our rocking chair, and then bring our baby to my left breast. When she starts suckling, I turn on the breast pump.
If you're searching for comfortable, functional, cute nursing attire I highly recommend Latched Mama (not affiliated nor sponsored, just a huge fan)! They are a woman-owned small business that is local to me, and in my opinion nothing compares to the quality of their pieces!
My personal favorite is their Babydoll Nursing Tank—it pairs so well with a blazer for work. They also run promotions where you can receive a free item if you spend a certain amount, and I've received three free hoodies/pullovers this way! This fleece pullover they have during the Winter months is so cozy and cute.
During a normal session, our baby girl will get her fill and pop off the left breast before I’ve emptied my right breast using the pump, and I will let her snooze until I get to around 20 minutes of pumping. If I feel like I need it on the left breast, I will move the pump assembly over to that side and pump a few minutes until I’m empty.
When we’re finished, I wipe each breast dry with the cotton round, tuck the nursing pads into my bra, and get everything clipped back into place. If we have a full bottle or two of milk in the fridge, I will pour the milk into a storage bag and pop it in the freezer. Or, if baby girl wakes when I stand up, we’ll feed her the freshly pumped bottle on the spot.