Questions and answers
Where can I borrow a pump from
There are centres which loan hospital grade pumps for free on a short term basis, there is a small cost for the compartments needed but these are yours to keep. The details are listed on the useful links section which you can find further down this page. If you are finding that you are needing to lean on using a breast pump we would recommend seeking professional support from one of the local run breastfeeding and infant feeding support groups and or access the advice line number.
Should I express my milk overnight?
Yes, it is recommended that you express your milk overnight if you are trying to increase your breast milk supply. During the early hours of the morning 1-5am, your milk-making hormone is at its peak, so taking advantage of this time can help to boost your milk supply.
How do I store my breast milk?
Expressed breast milk should be stored in clean, sterilised containers or breast milk storage bags, clearly labelled with the date it was expressed. It can be kept at room temperature for a short period, stored in the back of the fridge, or frozen for longer-term use. When using stored milk, always check its smell and appearance, and warm it gently by placing the container in warm water rather than using a microwave. For detailed, up-to-date guidance on safe storage and handling, please visit the Breastfeeding Network under the “Feeding Information” section.
How do I offer my expressed breastmilk to my baby?
You can give your baby expressed breast milk using a cup, bottle, or a nursing supplementation system alongside breastfeeding, until they are able to feed effectively directly from your breast. It’s a good idea to ask for support when using these feeding methods, to help protect your breastfeeding journey and make sure things are going smoothly. You can speak with your Health Visitor, attend one of the breastfeeding support groups, or contact the advice line for extra help and reassurance.
Do I need to sterilise my breast pump after every use?
Wash all parts that come into contact with milk after every use. You should sterilise them at least once a day to help protect your baby from germs.
Does it cost anything to hire a breast pump?
Family Centres across your local area, including Barnardo’s and Families First Guildford, offer breast pump hire. There is no charge for hiring the pump itself; however, there is a small fee for the pump parts you will need to use with it, which are yours to keep.
Can I get back to direct breastfeeding after expressing?
Yes, it is possible to return to direct breastfeeding. It can take time, patience, and support. We recommend seeking support from your Health Visitor and/or attending one of the breastfeeding support groups in the area. If you need to offer top-ups alongside breastfeeding, it is important to have ongoing professional support. This will help ensure your baby is growing well and, when the time is right, support you to gradually reduce top-ups as you work through any breastfeeding challenges.
Should I single exrpress or double express?
Double expressing can be a helpful option, as it may reduce the time you spend pumping. Some research suggests it can also help increase the amount of milk expressed and may boost the fat content.
Can I hand express my milk?
Hand expressing is a great way to collect your milk, as you only need to wash your hands, making it less time-consuming. This can be particularly helpful when triple feeding (breastfeeding, expressing, and topping up). It may also support a better hormonal response, which can help increase the amount of milk you express. Hand expressing is easy to do more frequently, and shorter, more frequent expressing can be helpful for increasing milk supply. You also don’t need to buy or hire a breast pump, and it is much easier to manage when you are out and about.
How do I know what size flange to use?
If you decide to use an electric pump, it is important to use the correct flange size to help prevent soreness or damage to the nipple and areola. Using the wrong size can also affect how much milk you are able to express. The flange that comes with the pump is often too large for many women, so it is worth taking the time to measure your nipple to find the right fit. You can find a guide to measuring your nipple in the useful links section, and you can also seek help and advice at one of the Surrey breastfeeding and infant feeding support groups.
https://surreychildandfamily.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/high-angle-woman-breastfeeding-indoors-scaled-1-1000x668.jpg
A baby is breastfed while being held on an adult’s lap indoors.
