Power pumping or cluster pumping is achieved by pumping in intervals with time on and off. Make sure to consult your physician before trying power pumping to ensure it’s the right option for you. You might assume your supply is low, but most people produce the right amount of milk and go through a variety of changes throughout the breastfeeding process as their body adjusts.
Make sure to consult with your pediatrician to ensure that your baby is properly nourished before assuming you need to power pump if you’re doing it to increase milk production rather than supply.
It’s best to power pump immediately after feeding your baby because you can empty your breasts of milk which prevents clogged milk ducts and makes the process easier on your body. If you don’t have time to power pump after feeding, wait till your baby’s next feeding time. Pumping can be exhausting, so listening to your body and stopping when needed is important. Consult with a lactation expert if you’re struggling to keep up with milk production or are experiencing discomfort–pumping shouldn’t hurt![3] X Research source Thinking about or looking at videos and pictures of your baby can make pumping easier! Keeping your sweet baby in your thoughts increases oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, which helps move milk through the milk ducts in the breast to the nipple. [4] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source
20 minutes pumping 10-minute rest 10 minutes pumping 10-minute rest 10 minutes pumping
Electric breast pumps often have multiple speed options. Alternating the breast pump frequency speed from “massage” to “milk removal” every 5 minutes during your pumping sessions may help to increase milk production due to the extra stimulation. [7] X Research source
As noted previously, using an electronic double-pumping machine makes the pumping process easier because it cuts your pumping time in half, and simulates both breasts at the same time, which can lead to an increase in milk production.
Place your baby’s chest to chest with you and make sure that their neck is not bent. Your baby should not be entirely flat, and their back should be covered with a blanket for warmth.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! If you’re not getting enough time to relax and nourish your body with the care it needs, let your partner, friends, or family know you could use an extra hand now and then. Sleep as much as you can. Being well-rested makes it much easier for your body to keep up with producing milk.
Be sure to avoid plastic with the number 7 at the bottom, as this could indicate that the plastic has BPAs and is unsafe for your baby. [12] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source Never store milk in disposable bottle liners or other containers not meant for milk storage, like plastic baggies, as they aren’t secure and will lead to spoilage.
Don’t store your breast milk in the door of the refrigerator or freezer, as you want to keep the temperature of the milk as consistent as possible to avoid spoiling. Avoid wasting breast milk by storing 2-4 ounces (59-118 mL) at a time, and be sure to leave room at the top as breast milk expands.
Most milk banks also provide storage and shipping containers to ensure your milk stays safe in the transportation process.
