Breastfeeding your baby is a rewarding experience, but it also takes a huge amount of time and energy, something not every mom realistically has.
Combining breastfeeding and pumping can be a huge benefit for mothers who want to keep their milk supply strong while balancing work, errands, or time apart from their baby.
It allows you to maintain flexibility without sacrificing your breastfeeding goals.
Whether you’re returning to work, have a solo trip planned, or simply want to build a freezer stash for emergencies, this guide covers everything you need to know about the process.
So, if you’re ready to combine breastfeeding and pumping, invest in a good electric and portable breast pump, plan a solid routine, and use these tips to help you get started.
Why Combine Breastfeeding And Pumping?
Deciding to pump as well as breastfeed can definitely make feeding your little one more convenient.
But, it also helps ensure your milk supply stays consistent, and lets you provide your baby with optimal nutrition even when you’re away.
By starting to pump as well as breastfeed, you’ll be able to:
- Continue providing breast milk while working or traveling.
- Prevent engorgement and clogged ducts by regularly emptying the breasts.
- Allow partners or caregivers to feed the baby with stored milk.
- Build a freezer stash for emergencies or nighttime feedings.
When to Start Pumping
If you’re wondering when to start pumping as well as breastfeeding, the right timing can make a big difference in your success.
Experts recommend that new moms wait to introduce a pump until breastfeeding is well-established, typically around two to four weeks after birth.
Here’s how to begin:
- Start with Short Sessions: Pump once a day at first, preferably after the morning feed when supply is highest.
- Store Breastmilk Properly: Collect small amounts daily, use proper bags or bottles for storage, and ensure they’re refrigerated or frozen promptly.
- Choose the Right Pump: A high-quality breast pump helps mimic breastfeeding, so that pumping is quicker and easier.
Introducing pumping early and gradually gives your body time to adjust while maintaining a healthy milk supply for your baby.
Creating a Breastfeeding and Pumping Schedule
Deciding when and how to combine breastfeeding and pumping can be confusing at first.
The best pumping schedule is one that you can follow consistently, as this will help ensure your milk supply stays stable.
For the average working mother, a pumping schedule might look something like this:
Sample Pumping and Feeding Schedule:
| Time | Activity |
| 6:30 AM | Breastfeed before leaving for work |
| 9:30 AM | Pump mid-morning at work |
| 12:30 PM | Pump during lunch break |
| 3:30 PM | Pump mid-afternoon |
| 6:00 PM | Breastfeed when reunited with your baby |
| 9:00 PM | Optional nighttime pump if needed for supply |
If you’re at home with your baby, adjust the schedule so that you mostly breastfeed, adding one or two pumping sessions daily to build a backup stash or relieve fullness.
Consistency teaches your body to produce milk at specific times, making it easier to maintain supply over the long term.
Tips for Making Pumping Easier
Pumping can be challenging at the best of time, so try these tips to help ensure successful pumping sessions:
1. Stay Relaxed and Comfortable
Stress can reduce milk letdown. Before each pumping session, take a few deep breaths, drink some water, and find a comfortable position. A maternity pillow can help support your body during the pumping session.
2. Use Massage and Warm Compresses
Gently massage your breasts or use a warm compress before pumping to encourage milk flow and prevent blockages.
3. Pump After or Between Feedings
Try pumping 30–60 minutes after a feeding. This ensures that your baby gets enough milk during feedings while encouraging a strong milk supply.
4. Try Hands-Free Pumping
Wearable, hands-free pumps are perfect for multitasking moms. They’re especially handing for expressing milk discreetly during work or travel.
5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Your body needs extra fuel for milk production. Eat balanced meals and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Pumping Techniques to Maintain Milk Supply
The biggest hurdle when it comes to successful pumping is having a low milk supply.
Luckily, for most mothers, gradually increasing pumping sessions is all that’s needed to start producing more milk.
Here are some tips on ensuring you’re pumping in a way that encourages milk production:
- Pump or Nurse Frequently: Aim for 8–10 stimulations (pumping or nursing) per day.
- Power Pumping: Try 20 minutes of pumping, rest 10 minutes, and pump again for 10–15 minutes, to mimic cluster feeding.
- Night Sessions: Try pumping at night, when prolactin levels are highest, to increase milk output.
- Alternate Breasts: Ensure you always switch sides for each feeding or pumping session, to balance milk production.
Handling Common Challenges
Even with a good understanding of when and how to pump, issues can arise.
Here’s how to troubleshoot some common challenges you might encounter:
- Low Milk Supply: Pump more frequently and make sure your pump flanges fit properly. Stay hydrated and rested.
- Clogged Ducts: Use gentle massage or a warm compress before and during pumping to improve milk flow.
- Overproduction: Gradually reduce pumping sessions to avoid engorgement.
- Baby Prefers Bottle: Keep offering the breast regularly and try paced bottle-feeding to mimic natural breastfeeding.
Remember, it’s normal to adjust your schedule several times before finding what works best for you and your baby.
Emotional and Physical Self-Care
Motherhood is a balance, and it can be an especially challenging one when you’re juggling the many responsibilities of caring for a newborn.
If you start to feel overwhelmed, take time for yourself to recharge. And, never hesitate to ask for help if you start to feel overwhelmed.
Both breastfeeding and pumping can be physically and emotionally tiring.
Prioritizing yourself is the best way to ensure that you can nourish your newborn while also maintaining your own health.
Whether you’re pumping at work, home, or on the go, patience and consistency are key to ensuring a successful routine.
With a clear schedule and proper self-care, you can maintain a healthy milk supply and strengthen your bond with your baby even when you’re apart.
Take your time to find a routine that works for you, and remember that as long as your baby is happy and healthy, you’re doing everything right.