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How Do You Maintain Milk Supply with a Breast Pump?
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Last Updated 04/2021 Reviewed By Olga Tamayo, MSN, RNC, IBCLC How do I increase my milk supply when pumping?Increase pumping frequency
Pumping more often can help stimulate breasts to produce more milk. Moms can try pumping both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours for 48-72 hours. Then moms can return to their normal pumping routine. Pumping for longer than 30 minutes may not be beneficial.
How do you pump without losing supply?But if either breast is still full and uncomfortable, pump or hand express to comfort. To keep up your milk supply in both breasts (and to prevent painful engorgement), it's best to alternate breasts, whether in the same feeding session or between different sessions.
How do I maximize my output when pumping?Add Massage and Hand Expression
Studies have found that using your hands while pumping — either to massage the breast, gently compress it, or express your milk by hand — can really increase your output. You can massage your breasts to “wake them up” before pumping. You can squeeze and massage during pumping.
Can you run out of breast milk while pumping?Supply-demand cycle:
Milk production is a demand-supply process. More nursing/pumping results in a greater milk supply. If you consistently decrease nursing or pumping for several days, your overall milk supply will decrease and you can expect to see a decrease in pumped amounts.
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