Pumping breast milk can feel like a juggling act, especially if you’re navigating it for the first time. Whether you’re exclusively pumping or combining it with breastfeeding, there are common pitfalls that can make the process frustrating and even affect your milk supply. As a pediatrician, lactation consultant, and mom who exclusively pumped, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Here are the top 5 pumping mistakes to avoid to make your journey smoother – and how to fix them.
For even more tips, check out the PedsDocTalk YouTube video, where I cover 10 common mistakes and ways to avoid them.
Using the Wrong Flange Size
Using the wrong flange size is one of the most common pumping mistakes, and it’s often due to a lack of guidance. Many hospital lactation consultants overlook sizing, and pump manufacturers frequently include default flanges that are too large without clear instructions for measuring. This can leave moms frustrated when pumping feels painful or milk output is low, often because their flange doesn’t fit properly.
The wrong flange size – whether too big or too small – can cause discomfort, nipple damage, and reduced milk flow. A flange that’s too large pulls in the areola, while one that’s too small causes the nipple to rub against the sides. For more images and tips for measuring your flange size, watch this PedsDocTalk YouTube video.
It’s important to reassess flange size throughout your pumping journey, as nipple size can change due to frequency, supply, or postpartum recovery. Proper sizing not only improves comfort but also boosts milk output, making your pumping experience more efficient and enjoyable. If you’re unsure, consult a lactation consultant familiar with pumping for more support.
Not Pumping Enough or at the Right Time
Timing is everything when it comes to pumping. Milk production operates on a supply-and-demand system, meaning that infrequent pumping can signal to your body that less milk is needed, potentially leading to a reduced supply. Pumping too infrequently or at times that don’t align with your baby’s feeding schedule is a common mistake.
To maintain or build your supply, try to pump when your baby would typically eat – usually every 3-4 hours for most infants. This mimics the natural rhythm of feeding and helps your body stay in tune with your baby’s needs. If your baby is getting bottles at home, aim to pump during or shortly after those feedings to ensure your body continues producing milk at the same rate.
For exclusively pumping moms, timing can look slightly different depending on your baby’s age and milk needs. For example, in the early weeks postpartum, you might need 8-12 pumping sessions daily to establish supply. As your baby grows, you can gradually reduce sessions while monitoring your output. For instance, at 8 weeks postpartum, I reduced to 5 sessions per day without impacting my supply, but this balance is different for everyone. Adjustments like this require careful monitoring to avoid issues like clogged ducts, or a drop in milk production.
If you are unsure about your schedule, consult a lactation educator who specializes in pumping. They can help create a plan tailored to your baby’s age, your supply goals, and your personal needs. Remember, finding the right timing is about consistency and balance to ensure both you and your baby thrive.
Not Pumping Long Enough
A common question among pumping moms is, “How long should I pump for?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, but one thing is clear: pumping for too short a time can impact your milk supply. When breasts are not fully emptied, it signals to your body that less milk is needed, leading to a gradual decrease in production over time.
For most moms, 15-20 minutes per session is an ideal pumping duration. This allows enough time to stimulate multiple letdowns and fully empty the breasts. If milk flow stops before this time, many pumps have a massage mode that can help trigger another letdown. Alternating between expression and massage modes during a session can make a big difference in milk output.
For exclusively pumping moms, the “120-minute rule” is a helpful guideline to ensure you’re meeting your baby’s needs. This rule suggests aiming for a total of 120 minutes of pumping per day, spread across multiple sessions. For instance, a mom of a newborn might do 8 sessions of 15 minutes each, while a mom of a 6-month-old could reduce to 4 sessions of 30 minutes each. The exact timing will depend on your milk flow, your pump’s efficiency, and where you are in your journey, but the key is to be consistent and fully empty your breasts during each session.
Dropping Night Pumps Too Early
Nighttime milk production is often at its peak, making nighttime pumping sessions critical in the early weeks postpartum. Skipping these sessions too soon can lead to uncomfortable engorgement, clogged ducts, or even mastitis. Beyond comfort, dropping night pumps too early can also send signals to your body to produce less milk, impacting your overall supply.
Finding the right balance between rest and maintaining your milk supply is key. Personally, I found that spacing out my nighttime pumping sessions to every 4-5 hours instead of 3 hours helped me recover from postpartum complications while still maintaining my supply. For some moms, extra rest can be restorative, even improving production, but this varies by individual. It’s important to monitor your comfort levels and milk output closely when making adjustments.
You can typically consider dropping nighttime pumping sessions once your milk supply is well-established, which usually happens around 10-12 weeks postpartum. At this point, milk production transitions from being hormone-driven to a supply-and-demand process, meaning your body produces milk based on how much is removed through pumping or nursing. If your baby is gaining weight well and sleeping longer stretches (6-8 hours), you may be able to eliminate night pumps gradually. Exclusively pumping moms, however, should aim to keep at least one nighttime session until about 12 weeks to ensure supply remains stable.
This PedsDocTalk YouTube video includes an example of pumping schedules with overnight pumping by age– remember, this can vary based on your needs.
When transitioning away from night pumps, do so gradually to avoid engorgement and clogged ducts. Every mom’s journey is different, so listen to your body and adjust based on your unique needs and circumstances. Rest is essential, but finding the balance that works for both you and your supply is the ultimate goal.
Not Prioritizing Rest and Mental Health
Every new parent knows that sleepless nights are part of the journey, especially in the first few weeks and months after bringing home a newborn. While it’s normal to feel tired during this phase, it’s essential to prioritize rest and mental health– not just for your own well-being but also for maintaining your milk supply. Pumping, however, can sometimes feel like it’s competing with much-needed rest, adding to the physical and emotional toll.
Setting realistic pumping goals is a key first step. It’s okay to adjust your expectations as needed and remind yourself that you don’t have to be perfect. Focus on what’s most important for both you and your baby, and let go of the pressure to do it all. Creating a flexible routine that includes dedicated time for pumping, self-care, and rest can make the process more manageable and reduce stress. Consistency in your routine doesn’t have to mean rigidity– it’s about finding what works for your unique situation.
Asking for help is another vital part of this equation. Whether it’s your partner, family, or friends, having a support system can lighten your load. Delegating household chores or baby care, even for short periods, can make a huge difference.
Prioritizing rest might mean rethinking your pumping schedule, especially at night. For example, spacing out nighttime sessions in 30-minute increments can help you get longer stretches of sleep without drastically impacting your supply. If you’re currently waking every three hours to pump, try moving to 3.5-hour intervals and monitor how your body responds. Sometimes, these small adjustments can not only improve your physical recovery but also positively impact your milk production.
Remember, taking care of yourself is taking care of your body. Rest and mental health are not luxuries– they’re necessities that help you be the best version of yourself for your little one. Prioritize them alongside your pumping goals, and you’ll set a strong foundation for both you and your baby to thrive.
Looking for More Pumping Tips?
Pumping can feel like a lot to figure out, but avoiding these common mistakes can make the whole process smoother and easier on you. Every session you pump is a win, and it’s all about finding what works best for you and your baby. Be consistent, stay flexible, and most importantly, give yourself grace– you’re doing an amazing job!
For more tips and all 10 pumping mistakes to avoid, check out the PedsDocTalk YouTube video.
Watch the PedsDocTalk YouTube Video HERE!
