To maintain or build a good milk supply, it is generally recommended to pump about every 2 to 3 hours, which amounts to about 8 to 12 pumping sessions in a 24-hour period. This frequency mimics a newborn baby's typical feeding schedule and helps stimulate milk production effectively
. Key points on pumping frequency and duration:
- Pump every 2 to 3 hours around the clock, especially in the early weeks, to establish or maintain supply
- Aim for 8 to 12 pumping sessions per day, including overnight if possible
- Each pumping session usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes, or until milk flow slows and breasts feel well-drained
- Pump for a couple of minutes after milk stops flowing to maximize milk removal and supply
- If increasing supply is the goal, some mothers try pumping both breasts every 2 hours for 48–72 hours or power pumping (pumping in intervals for an hour)
- When returning to work, pump on the same schedule as your baby’s feedings, typically every 3 to 4 hours during the day
In summary, pumping every 2 to 3 hours for about 15 to 20 minutes per session, aiming for 8 to 12 sessions daily, is the standard recommendation to maintain or increase milk supply effectively
. Adjustments can be made based on individual needs and baby’s feeding patterns, ideally with guidance from a lactation consultant.
