Why Can’t I Pump Milk When I Have a Good Supply?Understanding Pumping Challenges for Breastfeeding Moms
- Anna Kogan
- Nov 23, 2024
- 4 min read
As a Registered Nurse and Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS), I hear this concern frequently:"My baby is thriving, gaining weight perfectly, and I know I have a good milk supply. But when I try to pump, I barely get anything out. Why?"
First, let me assure you: You’re not alone, and this experience is more common than you think. Pumping is a skill, and it often requires understanding how your body responds to the pump versus your baby. Let's dive into the potential reasons why this happens and explore practical solutions to make pumping work better for you.
1. Pumping Is Not the Same as Nursing
Your baby is far more efficient at removing milk from your breast than a pump. Babies stimulate the breast with their unique suckling patterns and use their saliva to communicate with your body, encouraging letdowns. A pump simply can’t replicate the bond and interaction you have with your baby.
When you pump, your letdown reflex might not be as strong, making it harder to extract milk. This doesn’t mean you don’t have milk—it simply means your body may need some encouragement to "let go" for the pump.
2. Flange Size Matters
Using the wrong flange size can dramatically affect your pumping output. If the flange is too large or too small, it can cause discomfort, restrict milk flow, and prevent proper suction.
Signs your flange size might be wrong include:
Pain during pumping.
Nipple swelling or redness.
Milk leaking around the flange.
Low milk output despite having a good supply.
Solution:Finding the right flange size is essential. I offer consultations to help determine your perfect fit and guide you through adjusting your pump settings for optimal results. You can book a consultation here.
3. Pump Settings May Not Be Optimal
Pumping requires finding the right combination of suction strength and speed. If the suction is too high, it can cause discomfort and inhibit letdown. If the speed is too fast or slow, it may not mimic your baby’s natural rhythm, making it harder to pump effectively.
Solution:Experiment with different settings to find what works for your body. Some moms respond better to a slower rhythm with gentle suction, while others do better with quicker stimulation followed by a slower extraction phase.
4. Stress and Hormones Play a Role
Your letdown reflex is influenced by the hormone oxytocin, which is triggered when you feel relaxed and connected to your baby. If you’re feeling stressed, rushed, or distracted while pumping, it can be harder for the milk to flow.
Solution:
Create a calming pumping space with soft music or baby photos.
Try deep breathing or mindfulness exercises before starting your session.
Use gentle breast massage or warm compresses to encourage letdown.
5. Some Moms Respond Better to Hand Pumps
For some moms, hand pumps provide a more natural rhythm and suction pattern that better mimics their baby’s feeding. They also give you more control over the pressure and pace of pumping, which can result in better milk removal.
Solution:If electric pumps aren’t working well for you, consider switching to a manual pump, like the Medela Harmony or Haakaa, which many moms find more effective for occasional use.
6. Vibration Can Help
Using vibration on your breasts can stimulate milk flow, soften engorged areas, and help trigger a letdown. Breast massagers, such as the LaVie Lactation Massager, are a great tool for this purpose. Applying gentle vibration before or during pumping can increase milk output and make the process more comfortable.
7. Choosing the Right Pump Matters
Not all pumps work the same way for every mom. Some pumps, like hospital-grade models (e.g., Medela Symphony or Spectra S1), are designed for higher efficiency and can work better for moms struggling to express milk. Other wearable or portable pumps, like the Willow or Elvie, may be convenient but less effective for some.
Solution:If you’re unsure which pump is right for you, I can help you explore your options based on your lifestyle and needs. Book a consultation here to discuss different pumps and their benefits.
Practical Tips to Improve Pumping Success
Start with Breast Massage - Gently massage your breasts before pumping to stimulate milk flow and break up any milk stasis.
Use Heat Therapy - Apply warm compresses to your breasts to encourage letdown and improve milk flow.
Pump After Nursing - If you’re breastfeeding and pumping to build a stash, try pumping immediately after a feeding session when your breasts are already stimulated.
Stay Consistent - Pumping is a learned skill. Consistency is key to training your body to respond to the pump.
Hydrate and Nourish Yourself - Drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious foods can help maintain your supply and energy levels.
When to Seek Help
If you’re still struggling with pumping despite trying these tips, consider booking a consultation with me. I can help assess your flange size, recommend pump settings, and troubleshoot specific challenges.
Sometimes, a small adjustment is all it takes to make a big difference!
Check out my consultations for:
Pumping isn’t always easy, but with the right tools and techniques, it can become a manageable and rewarding part of your breastfeeding journey. Remember, every mom’s body is different—what works for one might not work for another. The key is finding what suits you and your baby best.
Subscribe to my blog for more breastfeeding tips and advice, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need personalized help.
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