Pumping Mistakes

Breast pumping can be a game-changer for new moms who want to feed their little ones the good stuff while away. But just like any game, there are rules to follow to win big. 

Don't let your pumping experience suck more than the pump itself. 

Learn from these mistakes, put on your game face, and let’s pump it up!

(this post may contain affiliate links)

Pumping Mistake #1:
Using The Wrong Flange Size

Listen up, new moms - the flange is the MVP of your breast pump team. It's the part that fits over your nip and areola and gets things flowing. But just like Goldilocks and her porridge, finding the right size flange is crucial.

If it's too small, your nip will feel like it's in a vice grip. Too big, and you'll have more leaks than a rusty faucet. To avoid this boobie trap, look for a flange that fits juuuuust right - not too tight, not too loose.

To find the right size flange, look for a flange that fits your nipple comfortably without causing any pain or discomfort. If your nipple is rubbing against the sides of the flange or getting pulled too far into the tunnel, you may need a larger size.

Conversely, if there is too much space around your nipple, you may need a smaller size. 

And remember, your size may change, especially in those wild postpartum weeks. So keep an eye out for any discomfort and adjust accordingly.

Pumping Mistake #2:
Focusing too much on the amount of milk you pump

The amount of milk you pump is not a good indicator of your milk supply.

So don’t let your pumping output get you down. When it comes to your overall breastfeeding success, it's important to look at the bigger picture. Keep an eye on how your little one is nursing, how they're growing, and how they're developing over time. Because let's be real - a happy, healthy, thriving baby is the ultimate win, no matter how much milk you're pumping.

So, let your baby's growth and your mom instincts guide you - they're worth more than all the pumped milk in the world!

Pumping Mistake #3:
Rushing To Pump Too Quickly After Birth

There’s no need to rush to start pumping. In the first four weeks, you and your baby work together to initiate and build your milk supply. If your baby is healthy and breastfeeding is going well, you won’t need a pump to help with this.

Pumping is, however, really helpful if you need to be apart from your baby any time.  If not, enjoy this time with your baby and be reassured that even if you plan to pump regularly in future, there’s no need to ‘train’ your body to express milk in the first few weeks.

Listen up, new mommas! There's no need to go all "pump it up" in the early days. Your baby and your boobs need some quality time together to build that milk supply, and a pump isn't always necessary.

If your little one is healthy and latching like a pro, let nature do its thang without adding any extra gadgets to the mix. But hey, if you need to be apart from your sweetie-pie at any point, that's when the pump comes to the rescue.

Just remember, there's no need to force your body into a pumping frenzy right out of the gate. Enjoy the snuggles, and know that your pumping prowess will come when the time is right.

Pumping Mistake #4:
Skipping Pumping If Baby Is Unable To Latch After Birth

It's super important to get that milk moving out of your breasts to send the message to your body that it's time to ramp up production.

Aim for eight to ten pumping sessions a day - that's right, we said ten! Keep it up until your wee one is ready to latch on and nurse like a pro. Consider yourself a milk-makin' machine, and don't let anything stand in your way.

Pumping Mistake #5:
Not Getting A Hands-Free Pumping Bra

A hands-free pumping bra is like having your own personal assistant, holding those pump parts in place while you go about your day.

You can finally take that call, answer those emails, or just kick back with a book while the milk flows. Plus, with no hands needed for pumping, you can snack or sip on that much-needed water without missing a beat. 

Pumping Mistake #6:
Skipping Breast Massage

Don't you dare skip out on the super-easy and oh-so-important breast massage. This little trick has been proven to work wonders in getting that milk flowing and maximizing your output.

So, before and during your pumping session, take a little extra time to give those boobs a gentle massage. It'll also help you collect more milk for your little one. 

Pumping Mistake #7:
Not Switching Out Breast Pump Supplies

To keep your boob juice flowing like a champ, you gotta keep those pump parts in tip-top shape. That means switching out your flanges, valves, membranes, tubing, and connectors from time to time.

Think of it like giving your pump a spa day - a little maintenance can go a long way in keeping your milk flow strong and steady. So don't neglect your pump's needs, ladies - treat it right and it'll treat you right in return.

Pumping Mistake #8:
Stopping Pumping Sessions Too Early

Cutting a pumping session short is like leaving a job half-done.

So how can you tell how long you should pump? Discover your unique flow pattern during pumping! 

Pick a time when you normally pump your highest volume of milk and watch while you pump, noting when jets of milk start coming from your nipple, or when milk drips into the container over the course of the session.

Just remember, every mama's flow pattern is unique, so pay attention to those let downs and adjust your pumping time accordingly.

Otherwise, you're leaving some precious milk behind and your body won't get the message to make more.

Pumping Mistake #9:
Ignoring Discomfort

Don't be a hero and tough it out! If pumping feels like a medieval torture device, it's time to make a change.

Your boobs should not feel like they're on fire, and any blisters or chafing should be addressed immediately. 

Pumping Mistake #10:
Not Freezing Breast Milk In Different Containers

Don't be a one-size-fits-all kind of pumper. Mix up the amount of milk you freeze so you can pull different portion sizes.

And don't forget to think small, too! Keep some 1 to 2 ounce (30 to 60 milliliter) portions on hand for those times when you need a quick fix.

Oh, and don't fill those containers to the tippy-top - breast milk likes to expand in the freezer!

Pumping Mistake #11:
Using Excessive Suction

Don't go all Hulk on your breast pump and crank up the suction to the max. That won't get you more milk - in fact, it'll do just the opposite. It'll cause inflammation and make it harder for you to express milk.

Medium suction is the sweet spot for most moms to pump the most milk in the least amount of time.  Experiment and dial up the suction to where you can pump and it’s not uncomfortable, and then dial it back a bit.  Everybody is different.

Pumping Mistake #12:
Stressing About Your Freezer Stash

Chill out about the size of your freezer stash!  It's easy to get caught up in the idea of having a massive freezer stash, but don't let it consume you. Instead of obsessing over how much milk you have stored away, focus on producing enough milk for your baby's immediate needs.

You don't have to keep up with the Joneses or compare your output to others.So take a deep breath, relax, and remember that you're doing the best you can.

Pumping Mistake #13:
Worrying About Your Output While Pumping

Don't be a boob and stress about the milk flow while you're pumping. It's like watching water boil - the more you focus on it, the slower it seems to come out.

Instead, cover up that pump with a sock and let it do its thing while you binge-watch your favorite show or catch up on some reading. Your milk will flow like a river, and you'll be able to relax and enjoy the ride.

Pumping Mistake #14:
Overlooking freezing in glass containers

Don't underestimate the power of glass when it comes to freezing your liquid gold (a.k.a breast milk).

It's like putting it in a superhero suit - fewer antibodies will be lost during the freezing process.

Pumping Mistake #15:
Waiting to refrigerate/freeze freshly pumped milk

Listen up, milky mamas! Don't let your precious nectar sit out in the open air like it's some kind of pool floatie at a backyard barbecue.

You gotta refrigerate or freeze that liquid gold pronto if you want to keep it fresh and preserve all those juicy nutrients for your little one. 

Pumping Mistake #16:
Partially thawing a container of milk and pour off only enough for a small feed

It won't distribute the milk components evenly and can mess with your baby's nutrition.

So, thaw the whole container and give your little one a full meal, they deserve it!

Pumping Mistake #17:
Thinking you HAVE to warm thawed breast milk up to body temp

If your baby is full-term or older, don't stress about warming up thawed breast milk to body temperature! You don't HAVE to do it.

Your baby can enjoy it straight out of the fridge or even at room temperature. Who knows, they might even have a preference for chilled milk like a little milkshake connoisseur. Just go with the flow and see what your baby likes.

Pumping Mistake #18:
Freaking out if your pumped milk is a slightly different color

Don't have a cow if your pumped milk is a little off-color! Human milk can come in all sorts of hues depending on what you eat or take medication-wise.

So, if it's pinkish or slightly green, it's not time to scream!

Pumping Mistake #19:
Throwing Out expired breast milk

Don't cry over spilled milk...unless it's expired breast milk. Then, you might want to cry for a minute or two. But don't throw it out just yet, because there are actually many other uses for it!

Article: 

Pumping Mistake #20:
Not Learning How To Hand Express

Don’t skip the art of hand expressing! It's udderly amazing how much you can milk out of that skill.

If you're looking to learn how to hand express breast milk, we've got you covered. Don't worry, it's not as complicated as it might sound. Just follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Wash your hands! You don't want any germs sneaking into your milk. Plus, it's always good to practice good hygiene.

Step 2: Find a comfortable spot to sit. You'll be there for a little while, so make sure you're in a cozy spot where you won't be disturbed.

Step 3: Get into position. Start by holding your breast with one hand, using your thumb and fingers to form a "C" shape around the base of your breast. Your fingers should be about an inch or so behind your nipple.

Step 4: Massage your breast. Use your other hand to gently massage your breast from the outside towards the nipple. This will help stimulate the milk flow.

Step 5: Start expressing! Use your thumb and fingers to gently squeeze your breast, pushing the milk towards your nipple. Be sure to alternate between compressing and releasing your breast in a rhythmic motion.

Step 6: Switch sides. Once you've collected enough milk from one breast, switch to the other side and repeat the process.

Step 7: Store your milk. Pour your milk into a clean, sterilized container and store it in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to use it.

And there you have it, a step-by-step guide on how to hand express breast milk. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep at it and you'll be a pro in no time!

Our 3 FAV Breastfeeding Products

🌛 1. This nursing bra is the absolute BEST for breastfeeding at night. It’s super comfortable and made of the softest material ever. You’ll want to wear it forever to sleep in, even after you’re done breastfeeding.

💪 2. Boost supply and tone up postpartum. Milk Dust is protein powder made just for breastfeeding moms. It nourishes and tones postpartum bodies (and contains milk boosting ingredients too!)  Get 10% off Milk Dust using the code MILKOLOGY at checkout

🤱 3. If your nipples are sore, these are an absolute lifesaver. They’re super cheap, can be worn for multiple days (perfect when you’re trying to get a good latch), and are soooo soothing.