How Often Should I Use a Breast Pump to Maintain My Milk Supply?

Pumping your breasts for the ideal amount of milk can be a delicate balance between too often and too little.

Pumping Too Little Decreases Milk Supply

When breasts are full of milk, they signal to the body to create less milk. Therefore, if full breasts aren't drained for awhile, you will produce less milk. Sleeping for longer periods of time at night and pumping for shorter sessions (under 10 to 15 minutes) can lead to less milk production.

Pumping Frequently Increases Milk Supply

Pumping 8 to 12 times per day usually increases milk supply in lactating women, when each pumping session is about 20 to 30 minutes long (or 2 minutes after the last drop of milk). Breast massage can also increase milk production.

Bottom Line

Once you've met the goal of pumping a full milk supply, which is 25 to 35 ounces, you can pump a little less per day. Pump about 5 to 7 times per day, at around 10 to 15 minutes each time, and monitor your milk supply to adjust accordingly.

References

• Hollister Incorporated: How to Establish a Full Milk Supply with a Breast Pump
• Ameda: Maintaining a Full Milk Supply with a Pump
• Ameda: How to Bring in a Full Milk Supply with a Breast Pump