How to Create a Pumping Schedule

Hey there, mumma! Ever wonder about the ideal pumping schedule? Well, here’s the scoop: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you’re just starting out on your breastfeeding adventure or gearing up for the return to work, the key lies in understanding your own unique situation. Let’s dive into the world of pumping schedules and how they fit into your breastfeeding journey. We’ll talk about the importance of personalised pumping plans, the option to delay pumping if breastfeeding is smooth sailing, and how to fit pumping into your routine as you prepare for the transition back to work. Let’s celebrate the diversity of breastfeeding experiences and find what works best for you.

Embracing Individuality: There’s No One Right Way

Pumping on Your Terms: Your Journey, Your Rules

First things first: there’s no right or wrong when it comes to pumping schedules. It really depends on the reason you’re pumping. If breastfeeding is going smoothly and you’re content without pumping, that’s perfectly okay (and encouraged!)! Every mum’s journey is unique, and it’s essential to honour your own instincts and preferences. Don’t let the pics of gigantic freezer stashes all over social media sway you into thinking you’re doing something wrong.

Delaying Pumping: Trusting Your Body’s Wisdom

In the first 6-8 weeks, if breastfeeding is going well, it’s a good idea to avoid pumping unless there are problems that mean you need to. In this time, your body is learning how much milk you need to make. Your body is a marvel, perfectly attuned to your baby’s needs. But when we pump a lot, your body thinks you need to make a lot more milk than baby needs, which sounds like a good thing, but oversupply comes with problems too, like mastitis! If you’re able, allow this precious time for establishing a strong breastfeeding relationship before introducing the pump.

Getting Support: The Power of Personalised Plans

The IBCLC: Your Partner in Breastfeeding Success

If breastfeeding isn’t going as planned, this changes things a bit. But as I mentioned earlier, the reason you’re pumping will determine what your schedule looks like. If you’re having problems with low milk supply, the amount you need to pump is different to if you’re pumping to have some milk ready for your return to work, for example. And on top of that, pumping can be a pain! It’s one more thing you need to fit into your already busy day of looking after a baby, and it comes with extra cleaning. Usually, the smallest number of pumping sessions you can get away with is best! This is where getting guidance from an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) can make all the difference. Together, you can create a personalised plan tailored to your needs, addressing challenges, and setting achievable goals.

Planning for the Future: Pumping and Returning to Work

Transitioning Back: Mixing Pumping Into Your Routine

Let’s talk about the freezer stash. You really don’t need a huge stash of pumped milk in the freezer! You really only need enough milk for the next day’s feeds when you’re going to be away from baby. Don’t let those internet freezer stashes stress you out!

As you prepare to return to work, pumping can be a valuable tool in keeping your breastfeeding adventure going. It’s a good idea to start gradually introducing pumping sessions into your routine a few weeks before your return date. This way you get to know your pump and make sure everything is working. While you’re at work and away from baby, it’s ideal if you can pump whenever baby would usually feed. This helps to keep your milk supply up. Some workplaces might not allow this many pumping sessions, so as many as you can to get you as close to how often baby feeds is best for your supply. For more info on breastfeeding when returning to work (including your rights as a breastfeeding mum!), check out Breastfeeding when returning to work: The complete guide.

When is the Right Time to Pump?

If you want to pump, whenever you can fit pumping into your day is the right time to pump! Lots of mums find they get more milk in the morning since supply is at it’s highest then. Aiming for right in the middle of two feeds is a good plan too, since that allows time for your milk to build back up a little after bub has fed, but still leaves time for milk to build back up again before baby is ready to feed again. And you don’t need to worry that you’re stealing baby’s milk! Your breasts are never empty, so if your baby suddenly wants to feed earlier than you expected, there will still be milk there! But you might it’s not as much as usual and baby might do a few feeds close together to catch up. This is completely ok!

I Only Get a Small Amount of Milk Out, What Should I Do? 

First, don’t panic! This doesn’t mean that you have low milk supply. It often just means the pump isn’t as good at making your milk flow as your baby is (pumps aren’t cute and cuddly enough to get your hormones flowing which gets your milk flowing). Second, go read this blog post for tips on how to get more milk when pumping.

Remember, creating a pumping schedule is all about embracing flexibility and understanding your unique breastfeeding journey. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and whether you’re opting to pump or not, it’s crucial to honour your instincts and needs. If breastfeeding is going smoothly, delaying pumping until necessary can help prevent potential issues like oversupply. Getting support from an IBCLC can provide invaluable guidance tailored to your situation, especially if you’re facing breastfeeding challenges. As you prepare for the return to work, gradually mixing in pumping sessions to your day can help maintain your milk supply while ensuring a smooth transition. Remember, there’s no right or wrong time to pump—whenever it fits into your day is perfect! And if you’re worried about low output, don’t stress—often, it’s just the pump’s efficiency, not your supply. Embrace your journey, mumma —you’re doing amazing!

If you found this info helpful, I’d love to know what your biggest takeaway was! Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know. I’d love to hear your story!