How Do You Produce More Breast Milk When Pumping?

Many breastfeeding moms worry about maintaining or increasing their milk supply while pumping. Whether you're exclusively pumping, supplementing breast milk, or building a freezer stash, there are effective ways to encourage your body to produce more milk. Because breast milk production follows a supply-and-demand cycle, optimizing your pumping schedule, using the right equipment, and supporting your body with proper nutrition and hydration can make a significant difference. This guide provides practical tips to help you pump more efficiently, improve milk output, and make the process as stress-free as possible.

Establishing an Effective Pumping Routine

A well-planned and consistent pumping routine is key to increasing milk supply. Your body naturally produces milk based on how much and how often milk is removed. The more frequently you empty your breasts, the more milk your body will generate to meet the demand.

Pump Frequently

To stimulate increased production, you should pump every 2-3 hours during the day. If you are exclusively pumping, aim for 8-12 pumping sessions per day, as this closely mimics a newborn's feeding pattern. Skipping sessions can lead to reduced supply over time, so try to maintain consistency.

Don’t Skip Night Sessions

Prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, peaks during the night. Skipping nighttime pumping sessions can negatively affect supply, especially during the early months. If waking up for a session feels overwhelming, a wearable pump like the MomMed wearable breast pumps can make it easier by allowing you to pump while resting or handling other tasks.

Pump After Nursing

If you’re both nursing and pumping, adding a short 10-15 minute pumping session after each feeding can help empty your breasts completely and encourage more milk production. This signals your body to make more milk to compensate for what was removed.

Extend Pumping Time

Even after milk flow slows down, continue pumping for an extra 5-10 minutes. This can trigger additional letdowns and gradually increase your supply over time. Some moms find that switching between massage and compression techniques helps stimulate further milk flow.

Mastering Power Pumping

What Is Power Pumping?

Power pumping is a technique designed to mimic a baby’s cluster feeding, which naturally stimulates more milk production. It involves alternating short pumping sessions with breaks to trick your body into thinking it needs to produce more milk.

How to Power Pump

A typical power pumping session follows this schedule:

• Pump for 20 minutes
  
• Rest for 10 minutes
  
• Pump for 10 minutes
  
• Rest for 10 minutes
  
• Pump for 10 minutes
  

This method is best used once or twice a day for a few days in a row. It can be particularly effective during periods of low supply or when trying to increase output quickly.

When to Power Pump

The best times to power pump are usually in the morning or evening, when your body tends to produce more milk. If using a pump like the MomMed S10 Pro wearable pump, which mimics a baby’s natural sucking rhythm, power pumping sessions may be more comfortable and effective.

Optimizing Your Pumping Setup

Use the Right Flange Size

A poorly fitted flange can cause discomfort and reduce milk output. If you experience pain, pinching, or whitened nipples after pumping, your flange may be the wrong size. A correctly sized flange ensures better milk extraction and a more comfortable experience.

Check Suction Levels

Using the right suction level is essential. Too high, and it can cause discomfort; too low, and it may not remove milk effectively. Experiment with different suction settings to find the one that is comfortable yet effective for you.

Double Pumping

Using a double electric pump instead of a single pump can save time and stimulate more milk production by mimicking the way a baby nurses. The MomMed S10 Pro is a great option for efficient double pumping, as it ensures optimal suction and rhythm to maximize output.

Hands-On Pumping

Massaging your breasts before and during pumping can help empty them more thoroughly. Gently compressing and massaging different areas can encourage additional letdowns, helping to increase overall milk production.

Nutrition and Hydration for Better Milk Supply

Your body needs adequate nutrition and hydration to sustain milk production, and small dietary adjustments can significantly impact your supply. Eating nutrient-dense foods and staying hydrated can help ensure that your body has the necessary resources to produce enough milk for your baby.

Stay Hydrated

Since breast milk is made up of nearly 90% water, staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining a healthy milk supply. Aim for at least 8-12 cups of water per day, and increase your intake if you feel thirsty or notice a drop in milk production. Other hydrating options include:

• Coconut water – A natural electrolyte booster that can help with hydration.
  
• Herbal teas – Certain caffeine-free teas, such as fenugreek or fennel tea, may support lactation.
  
• Milk or almond milk – Provides calcium and other essential nutrients.
  

A good way to remember to drink enough water is to keep a water bottle near your pumping station and take sips during each session.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Your body requires a variety of nutrients to maintain a steady milk supply. Make sure you’re eating:

• Protein-rich foods like eggs, fish, lean meats, tofu, beans, and Greek yogurt to support energy levels and milk production.
  
• Healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, which provide essential fatty acids needed for breast milk composition.
  
• Complex carbohydrates such as oats, quinoa, and whole grains, which provide long-lasting energy.
  
• Iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and red meat to prevent fatigue and support milk supply.
  
• Calcium sources such as dairy products or fortified alternatives to maintain bone health.
  

Lactation-Boosting Foods

Certain foods, often called galactagogues, may help naturally enhance milk production. Try incorporating:

• Oats – A great source of iron, which is linked to better milk production.
  
• Brewer’s yeast – A popular ingredient in lactation cookies that contains B vitamins and minerals.
  
• Flaxseeds & chia seeds – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, supporting both mom’s and baby’s health.
  
• Dark leafy greens – Spinach, kale, and broccoli contain essential nutrients and phytoestrogens that may promote lactation.
  

Consider Lactation Teas & Supplements

Many moms find lactation teas and herbal supplements beneficial. Herbs like fenugreek, blessed thistle, and milk thistle have traditionally been used to promote milk production. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, as they may not be suitable for everyone.

Reducing Stress and Creating a Relaxing Pumping Environment

Breastfeeding and pumping are not just physical processes; mental and emotional well-being also play a major role in milk production. Stress and fatigue can lead to a lower supply, so creating a comfortable and relaxing environment can help improve milk flow.

Find a Quiet, Comfortable Space

Setting up a dedicated pumping area can make your sessions more enjoyable. Choose a spot where you feel at ease, whether it’s a cozy corner of your bedroom, a recliner, or a private space at work. Keep water, snacks, a burp cloth, and your phone or a book nearby to make the experience as stress-free as possible.

Use Warm Compresses

Applying a warm compress or gently massaging your breasts before and during pumping can help encourage milk flow. Heat increases circulation, which can lead to stronger letdowns and better milk expression.

Listen to Baby’s Sounds or Look at Pictures

Your body responds to emotional and sensory cues from your baby. Looking at photos or videos of your baby, or listening to recordings of their coos and cries, can trigger the letdown reflex and improve milk output.

Practice Deep Breathing or Meditation

When you’re feeling tense, deep breathing exercises or short meditation sessions can help you relax. Try taking slow, deep breaths before and during pumping to reduce anxiety and promote a smooth milk flow. Apps like Headspace or Calm can provide guided relaxation techniques.

Make Pumping More Comfortable with the Right Equipment

An ill-fitting or inefficient breast pump can make the pumping experience frustrating and stressful. Choosing a high-quality, comfortable pump can make a big difference. The MomMed S21 wearable pump is a great hands-free option that allows moms to move freely while pumping, helping reduce stress and improve milk expression.

Tracking and Monitoring Your Milk Supply

Monitoring your pumping output can help you understand your body’s patterns and adjust your routine as needed. Keeping track of how much milk you pump can also help identify supply changes early, allowing you to take action before supply dips significantly.

Keep a Pumping Log

Recording details about each session can help you identify trends and make adjustments. Consider tracking:

• Pump session times
  
• Milk output from each breast
  
• Dietary or lifestyle changes that may have affected your supply
  
• How you feel (stress levels, hydration, sleep quality, etc.)
  

You can use a simple notebook, a breastfeeding app like Pump Log or Baby Tracker, or even your phone’s notes app to keep track.

Adjust Based on Baby’s Needs

As your baby grows, their milk intake will change. Around 3-4 months, babies may experience growth spurts, which can temporarily increase their demand for milk. If you notice that your supply isn’t keeping up, consider increasing pumping sessions or incorporating power pumping to boost output.

Check for Signs of Low Supply

While many moms worry about low supply, it’s important to distinguish between perceived low supply and actual low supply. If you suspect a drop in production, look for the following signs:

• Your baby seems fussy after feedings or doesn’t seem satisfied.
  
• Your breasts feel consistently soft, with no fullness between feedings.
  
• Pump output has significantly decreased despite maintaining the same schedule.
  

If you notice these signs, try increasing pumping frequency, improving hydration, and incorporating lactation-friendly foods into your diet. If concerns persist, consider speaking with a lactation consultant for guidance.

Conclusion

Increasing milk supply while pumping is possible with the right techniques, a consistent routine, and a supportive pumping setup. Prioritizing frequent pumping, optimizing your equipment, staying hydrated, and reducing stress can all contribute to better milk production. Using a reliable and comfortable pump, like the MomMed S21 for hands-free convenience or the MomMed S10 Pro for powerful suction and efficiency, can make the process easier and more effective. Every mom’s journey is unique, so listen to your body, be patient, and find what works best for you.