We spoke with Emma Monagle, Nurse Educator and IBCLC at Tresillian, to get expert advice on pumping schedules and milk supply.
If you’re holding a breast pump and wondering, “How often should I be doing this? “First, know you’re not alone. Whether you’re exclusively pumping, going back to work, or just dealing with a sleepy newborn who can’t quite latch, figuring out the right pumping schedule can feel more complicated than it should.
The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there are a few clear rules, and understanding how your body makes milk will help you make the best decisions for you and your baby.
How Milk Supply Works: The Rules of Supply and Demand
Breast milk production is all about supply and demand. The more your baby (or your pump, or your hands) removes milk, the more your body gets the message to make. If milk stays in your breasts for hours, your body figures you don’t need as much, and production slows down.
So, the “secret” to a good supply is pretty simple: drain your breasts well, and empty your breasts often.
Why Are You Pumping? Start Here
How often you should pump really depends on your situation:
- Baby Not Feeding at the Breast
Maybe your baby is in the NICU, struggling with attachment, or just taking a break from feeding at the breast. If your baby isn’t feeding at the breast at all, you’ll need to mimic a newborn’s feeding pattern: aim for a minimum of 8–10 pumping sessions every 24 hours, including at least one session overnight. That’s about every 2–3 hours, yes, even at 3 a.m. It’s a lot, but it tells your body to build up a full milk supply.
- Low Milk Supply or Slow Weight Gain
If your baby is feeding at the breast but still needs more milk, try pumping or hand expressing after as many feeds as you can, right after feeding is a great time, even if you don’t get much. Six to eight extra sessions a day can make a real difference in supply. Some parents find it easier to squeeze in a few longer stretches, while others break it up throughout the day.
- Going Back to Work or Building a Stash
If you’re prepping for time apart from your baby, you don’t need to go all out. Pump once or twice a day (morning is often most productive) and start storing a little extra. When you’re at work, aim to pump as often as your baby would feed, usually every 2–3 hours.
- Exclusively Pumping
If you’re exclusively pumping long-term, you’ll need to keep up the demand. Once your supply is established, some people do fine with 4–5 sessions per day; others need 8–10. You’ll find what is right for you by watching your output and how your breasts feel.
When Should You Pump?
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If baby isn’t latching: Just pump as often as you reasonably can to mimic a newborn’s feeding pattern.
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If baby is feeding at the breast: Try pumping right after feeds (to boost supply), or about an hour after a feed (to collect more milk for top-ups). It’s normal to get only a little milk right after feeding, this is about sending a message to your brain, not just filling a bottle.
How Long Should Each Pumping Session Last?
There isn’t a magic number. Here’s what matters:
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Breast storage capacity: Some people can store more milk at once; others less. If you store less, you’ll need to pump more often for shorter periods.
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Milk flow and pump type: A double electric pump (with the right flange size) is most efficient. Massage before and during pumping (sometimes called “hands-on pumping”) can help you get more milk.
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General rule: Pump for 15–20 minutes, or until the milk slows to a trickle. If you’re pumping right after feeding, 5–15 minutes is usually enough.
How Much Milk Should You Expect?
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If you’re pumping after feeding: You might get a few drops. Don’t obsess over the number, think of this as “placing your order” for more milk next time.
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If you’re replacing a feed: Babies between 1 and 6 months old generally take about 80 ml per feed if you’re dividing into 10 feeds. But every baby is different, and so is every pumping session.
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If you need top-ups: Work with a lactation consultant or your baby’s doctor to figure out how much is right for your situation.
Tips for Pumping More Milk
- Pump more often. The more thoroughly you drain your breasts, the more milk you’ll make. Try for eight or more sessions in 24 hours if you’re building or boosting supply.
- Massage while pumping. “Hands-on pumping” (gently massaging or compressing your breasts during a session) really can help move more milk out, think of it as giving your ducts a little nudge.
- Use the right pump and flange size. An efficient double electric pump is best for most people. Make sure the flange fits: too small or too big can mean less milk (and more pain).
What If Pumping Hurts?
Pumping should never hurt. If you’re getting soreness, blisters, or cracked nipples, check your pump settings and flange size. Too much suction or the wrong fit can cause real damage and reduce your supply. If you’re not sure, ask a lactation consultant to check your setup.
The Bottom Line
There’s no single “right” way to pump, and your routine may change as your baby grows, your work schedule shifts, or your body adjusts. The golden rule: pump as often as you need to keep your supply where you want it, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plan as you go. Remember, every drop of breast milk you pump is valuable. Whether you’re pumping a little or a lot, you’re doing a fabulous job.
References:
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Mohrbacher, N. (2020). Breastfeeding Answers: A Guide for Helping Families.