Learning to pump efficiently, correctly, and comfortably can initially feel overwhelming. Here are exclusive breast pumping tips every new mom should know.
Have you ever felt like a lost tourist, wandering in the vast land of breast pumping? With various pumps, countless techniques and endless advice, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
“Breast pumping is an art…” A version that moms worldwide can relate to. It’s more than just expressing milk; it’s about nurturing your little one while taking care of yourself.
In this journey of love and lactation, we all need a guide. Fortunately, that guide is here for you!
Whether you’re heading back to work, increasing your supply, building a milk stash, or exclusively pumping and bottle feeding, it’s essential to know what you’re doing when using your breast pump and consistency is key.
Jump to a section:
- What are the different types of breast pumps?
- How do first-time moms pump breast milk?
- How often do you pump?
- Do’s and don’ts of pumping
- Breast pumping techniques
- Troubleshooting Common Breastfeeding Issues
- Can I go without pumping overnight?
Different types of breast pumps available and how to choose the right one for you
When it comes to breastfeeding, every mom’s experience is unique. This extends even to choosing a breast pump. You might be wondering, manual or electric? Single or double pumping? Hospital grade or personal use?
Let’s start with manual vs electric pumps. Manual pumps are generally cheaper and quieter than their electric counterparts but require more effort as you need to pump by hand.
Electric models, on the other hand, offer quicker milk expression but can be pricey. Some moms swear by the efficiency of double-electric pumps which let them express milk from both breasts at once.
Finding Your Perfect Pump Match
The perfect pump depends not just on your budget but also your lifestyle needs. If you’re always on-the-go, consider portable options like battery-operated ones.
If comfort tops your list, look out for models with soft silicone flanges or adjustable suction levels that mimic baby’s natural sucking rhythm – this could make all the difference between an ‘ouch’ and an ‘ahhh’ experience.
Hospital Grade vs Personal Use Pumps
‘Hospital-grade’ sounds impressive doesn’t it? These heavy-duty machines are designed for multiple users (with individual kits) and have powerful motors that help stimulate milk supply efficiently. They’re great if you need serious pumping power due to issues like premature birth or low milk supply.
Stanford Medicine offers a deep dive into these high-performing machines.
But if you’re pumping occasionally, personal-use pumps may be sufficient. They’re lighter and more compact but still efficient enough for most moms.
Your Breast Pump is A Personal Choice
Choosing the right breast pump is as unique as your postpartum journey. Don’t let ads or other people’s opinions sway you. You know what will work best for you and your baby.
Consider factors like how often you’ll use it, where (at home or on-the-go), comfort level, and budget when making your decision.
How do first-time moms pump breast milk?
While every lactating person’s goals for pumping will vary, there are some general guidelines to follow when pumping breast milk for the first time.
First, you can pump shortly after birth or wait a few weeks to start once your supply has stabilized. It’s ultimately a personal choice based on your options and your baby’s needs.
When to pump
If your baby doesn’t take a bottle
Pump about an hour after your breastfeeding session with your baby. This timing will boost your supply and help you build a pumped milk stash.
Another option is simultaneously pumping from one breast while the baby nurses off the other. You could use a manual breast pump for ease of use and fewer pump parts to clean.
If your baby takes a bottle
Pump around when you or someone else gives your baby a bottle or at least every three hours. This timing will help keep your supply on point with your baby’s milk needs.
How long to pump
Aim to pump for 15-25 minutes per session. If you are pumping and nursing simultaneously, you can pump for as long as the baby feeds or continue pumping to hit 15 minutes if the baby unlatches.
Read next: Seven Easy Ways to Make Pumping More Enjoyable
How often should you pump as a new mom?
As mentioned above, this suggestion can vary based on your and your baby’s schedule. In general, there are some guidelines to follow.
Keep in mind the average newborn baby can nurse anywhere between 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, and you ideally want to either breastfeed or pump every three or so hours to keep your supply regular.
Many moms wonder, “how long can you go without pumping?” The answer varies for each individual, but generally, it is recommended not to go longer than three to four hours without pumping or breastfeeding to maintain a healthy milk supply.
If you are exclusively pumping:
Pump every three hours (or every time your baby takes a bottle).
If you are nursing and pumping:
Pump three times a day – once in the morning, afternoon, and before bedtime. These sessions should fall about an hour after a finished nursing session.
Do and don’ts of pumping
Do: practice safe hygiene and wash your hands before each session
Do: thoroughly clean or sanitize your parts after each session
Do: stay properly hydrated and well-nourished
Do: store your pumped milk properly
Don’t: overpump, as this could lead to oversupply, mastitis, and clogged ducts
Don’t: forget to refrigerate your pump parts after each use (clean thoroughly daily)
Don’t: skip a pumping session, as it could impact your supply
Don’t: ignore feelings of nipple pain or pinching
Effective Breast Pumping Techniques
Breast pumping is a skill that can take time and patience to master. Don’t fret, you can easily learn the techniques to get proficient at pumping with a bit of practice.
Correctly Using Your Breast Pump
The first step towards efficient breast pumping is understanding how to use your pump correctly. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully or consider watching instructional videos from reputable sources like Medela. This will help ensure you’re assembling and using it properly for optimal milk expression. Make sure to sit down and spend some time reading your pump manual, ideally before your baby arrives. While doing this, spend some time getting acquainted with how your pump parts go together and what you’ll do when it’s time to pump.
Trust us, it’s time well spent. There’s nothing more stressful than trying to figure out a pump while recovering from birth with a crying baby nearby.
Pump settings aren’t one-size-fits-all; they need adjustment based on comfort levels. Start with low suction then gradually increase until comfortable but not painful. If discomfort persists, reach out to a lactation consultant for advice.
Make a pumping station and a “go-bag”
Create a pumping station in your house with everything you need to stay comfortable.
- A phone charger
- Organic pumping nipple lubricant
- Snacks
- A water bottle
- Chapstick
- Milk storage bags (we love these reusable ones)
- Extra clean pump parts
Read next: 27 Nourishing and Quick Snacks to Eat While Breastfeeding
Stimulating Milk Flow
To stimulate milk flow before pumping, try massaging your breasts gently or applying warm compresses. A technique known as ‘hands-on-pumping’, which involves massage and compression while pumping can also improve milk production.
Finding ways of relaxation such as deep breathing exercises or visualizing your baby feeding can trigger let-down reflex – an important part of successful breastfeeding experience.
Safely Storing Expressed Milk
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), recommends storing breast milk in clean containers, with the date clearly marked. Freshly expressed milk can be stored for up to four hours at room temperature or kept in the refrigerator for a maximum of four days.
When you want to utilize refrigerated milk, it’s best to warm it by putting the container in a bowl of tepid water and stirring delicately, but never microwave as this could create areas that are too hot which may cause burns on your infant.
Pumping shouldn’t feel like a chore but rather an opportunity to provide nutritionally rich breastmilk even when away from your little one.
Have a hands-free pump?
If you have a wireless, hands-free pump like the Willow or Elvie (we are big fans of both!), create a “go-bag” with all the essentials you’ll need for pumping on the go.
- Pump storage bag
- Milk containers or bags
- Pump charger
- Quick clean wipes
- Small ice packs
- Pumping-friendly nipple cream
Find the correct flange size
Finding the correct flange size is essential to minimize pain and maximize your milk output.
You can start with a print-at-home ruler to find your size or contact an IBCLC to consult your pump and flange size.
Practice before you need to pump
Once you’ve completed tip number one, try your pump for a trial run. You don’t have to finish an entire pumping session, but at least get more acquainted with it to see how it feels, works, etc.
Note: if you are pregnant, please consult your doctor before attempting.
Have a way to clean parts quickly
Following your pump manual for sterilizing your parts before the first use is a good idea. You can continue this sterilizing method to deep clean your parts every few weeks.
In between sterilization sessions – and if your pump allows it – you can put your parts in the dishwasher (you might find a parts bag handy for the small pieces) or use a quick clean wipe.
Ultimately, make sure to consult your pump manual for proper cleaning instructions.
Pro tip: To reduce cleaning time, you can safely store your pump parts in the fridge between pumping sessions. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly at the end of each day.
Create your schedule
You will have to base your pumping schedule on your baby’s needs and your current schedule (for example, if you’re back at work or not).
Plan to pump every three hours if you’re away from your baby or if you’re exclusively pumping.
If you’re pumping to build a stash, pump three times a day an hour after a nursing session or pump from one side while your baby nurses from the other.
With a solid pumping and nursing schedule, new moms can navigate this process with ease.
Buy multiples of each part
Pump parts can break, become damaged, or need a wash when you need them most. It’s best to have multiples available for each pump part so you’re always prepared.
Eat enough food
A lactating person requires around 500 extra calories daily to maintain their milk supply. Proper breastfeeding nutrition is critical. Now is not the time to start “trying to lose the baby weight” or restrict your diet.
We love Majka Lactation Cookies for an extra boost of milk-friendly nutrition. Plus, they’re delicious and made with high-quality, organic ingredients.
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Make sure to stay hydrated
Aim for around 16 cups of water daily to help you stay hydrated. If you become too dehydrated, your supply will drop. A hydration and milk booster could help if you’re concerned about hydration.
Find a comfortable pumping bra
Depending on your pump type, you’ll need a comfortable pumping bra. Most traditional pumps require a special pumping bra, while a Willow or Elvie can use any tight-fitting nursing bra.
Read next: The Best Budget-Friendly Nursing Bras on Amazon
Store your milk as soon as possible
We share more on proper milk storage guidelines below but know it’s best practice to safely store your expressed breastmilk in the fridge or freezer as soon as possible. A freezer organizer for breastmilk may be helpful to keep your stash tidy.
If you’re pumping on the go, you can use a small cooler with ice packs to keep your milk cold until you reach your destination.
It can feel a little confusing to figure out how long and where to store breastmilk safely. The below chart from the CDC can help.
| Location/Temperature | |||
| Type of Breastmilk | Countertop 77°F (25°C) or colder | Refrigerator 40°F (4°C) | Freezer 0°F (-18°C) or colder |
| Freshly expressed | Up to 4 hours | Up to 4 days | Within 6 months* |
| Thawed, previously frozen | 1-2 hours | Up to 24 hours | Thawed human milk cannot be refrozen |
| Leftover from a feeding | Use within 2 hours | Use within 2 hours | Use within 2 hours |
*Note: you can store breastmilk for up to 12 months in a deep freezer instead of a regular freezer.
Know how to warm or thaw milk properly
Once your milk is pumped and stored, it’s essential to properly warm or thaw it for your baby to consume—never microwave breast milk.
If your milk is frozen: place it in the refrigerator to thaw out overnight. You can then gently warm it in a bowl of warm water.
If your milk is in the fridge: carefully swirl (don’t shake!) milk to combine the separated fat and then warm milk in a bowl of warm water.
Massage breasts before starting
To help get the most out of your pumping session, gently massage your breasts before putting on your pump. This can help encourage more milk production and boost stimulation.
Encourage a let-down naturally
Having multiple let-downs is the key to getting the most (literally) out of your pumping session. Sometimes you can encourage a let-down by thinking about your baby, watching videos of them, or looking at pictures while pumping.
It can also help if you try to relax as much as possible and lean back into a comfortable pumping position.
Give yourself enough time (if possible)
One common question that new moms often have is, “How long are you supposed to pump for?” While an ideal pumping session lasts 15-25 minutes, try giving yourself as much time as possible to get settled and comfortable.
We know this isn’t always a reality, but your output can improve the more you can relax. Plus, feeling less rushed can also make your mental health easier.
Can I go 8 hours without pumping at night?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, like how old your baby is, how many ounces of pumped milk you need, and whether you are okay with supplementing with formula (if needed).
If your baby has not yet reached birth weight: we suggest continuing to pump every three hours through the night to help keep your supply up to match their growing demand.
If you need to build a breastmilk stash: it might be wise to pump once or twice throughout the night while your baby is sleeping. You can drop these pumps whenever you wish, based on your needs.
Ultimately, if your baby has reached its birth weight and you’re pumping enough milk during the day, it’s okay to sleep eight hours without pumping at night.
Keep in mind there is an adjustment period for your body as it begins to acclimate to the decrease in overnight milk removal. Keep an eye out for clogged ducts and signs of mastitis.
Ideally, your body will get the message after a few days, ramp down production at night, and keep your supply level throughout the day, but there is always a risk that your supply will drop. You have to keep this in mind while making your decision.
If you see signs that your daytime supply is dropping, try adding one or two short pumping sessions daily until they’re no longer needed.
Ready to drop nighttime pumping no matter what?
If you are ready to stop pumping at night, your daytime milk supply drops, and you’re not producing enough during the daytime hours, you can consider supplementing with formula.
We love Bobbie and ByHeart, but your formula choice depends on your baby’s unique needs.
Troubleshooting Common Breast Pumping Issues
Even with the best intentions, breast pumping can come with its own set of challenges. From low milk supply to discomfort during pumping and dealing with engorgement or blocked ducts there’s a lot that could go wrong! No need to worry, we’re here to lend a hand with resolving these common problems.
Low Milk Supply
A frequent concern for many moms is not being able to pump enough milk. If you’re facing this issue, try increasing the frequency of your pumping sessions. The CDC recommends pumping more often than usual and trying power pumping (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off) for an hour each day.
Painful Pumping Sessions
If your sessions are causing discomfort or pain, it might be because your pump isn’t fitting correctly. Make sure you have the right size flange for your nipple size, too big or too small can cause pain. Using a warm compress before starting can also ease any discomfort.
Coping With Engorgement Or Blocked Ducts
Sometimes when breasts produce more milk than needed they become engorged which may lead to blocked ducts. Healthline suggests warm showers followed by gentle massage as one way of relieving this pain. Remember though if symptoms persist always seek medical advice.
Hygiene Matters
Breast pumps need to be clean, always. But sometimes milk can get trapped in hard-to-reach areas causing bacterial growth which might lead to infection. FDA’s guidelines for cleaning breast pumps will ensure you’re keeping everything as sterile as possible.
So, keep in mind that each mom’s pumping journey is special. What works for one might not necessarily be the solution for another. And that’s perfectly okay.
Final thoughts on breast pumping for new moms
No matter your reasons for pumping, we hope the tips shared in this article are helpful. Remember, there is no wrong way to feed a baby, only a lot of right ones, as long as you and your baby are both safe, healthy, and fed.
If you’re looking for more resources on breastfeeding, check out the below.
This has been the most helpful and reassuring thing I have read as a new to pumping mom, Thank you!!!
You’re so incredibly welcome. So happy to hear it. <3