There are various reasons why you may want to express. This list is not exhaustive but some are listed below:
❤️ to tempt baby to feed
❤️ to kick start milk production
❤️ to relieve fullness/engorgement
❤️ to build your supply
❤️ to provide milk for giving to baby as top-ups if they are on an infant feeding plan
❤️ if your baby is in the neonatal unit
❤️ body dysphoria
❤️ you want to exclusively express
❤️ if you are going to be apart from your baby
Expressing to allow a partner or family member to feed your baby isn’t recommended until breastfeeding is established, which is around 6 – 8 weeks on average. This is because your hormones are working hard in these first few weeks to perfectly manage demand and supply between you and baby. Expressing during this time carries the risk of interrupting that balance and so should only be done to meet the needs of the baby and your breasts. Remember there are lots of other things that your family or partner can do to bond with the baby and support you in this time.