Breastfeeding can sometimes feel like a chore, especially when you cannot produce enough milk during a feed or a pump session. You have probably heard about power pumping if you have searched online for ways to increase your breast milk supply. Perhaps your lactation consultant has even suggested this method when advising you on improving your breast milk production. Let us take you through and tell you what you need to know about power pumping.

What is power pumping?

Power pumping, also known as cluster pumping, is similar to cluster feeding your baby, where you would breastfeed more frequently in short intervals.

Breast milk production is a supply-and-demand system for your body. When it senses that there may not be enough milk for your baby, it will start to produce more, increasing your breast milk yield. Power pumping triggers this natural response, effectively signalling your system to naturally create more breast milk without taking supplements or herbal remedies.

How do I do power pumping?

If you have never tried power pumping or even cluster feeding with your baby, you might feel unsure of how to start the process and do it right. The main thing you should do is to pump at intervals for about an hour or so. The great thing about this method is that there is no set time limit to follow for each interval during each session.

Do a little trial and error to find a routine that works best for you and your body’s system. The rule of thumb is to take a rest for every interval that you pump.

Here’s an example of a one-hour schedule you may begin with:

• Pump: 20 minutes

• Rest: 10 minutes

• Pump: 10 minutes

• Rest: 10 minutes

• Pump: 10 minutes

If you are doing a single pump, switch from one breast to another at each interval so both sides are equally stimulated. Consider an electric breast pump instead of a manual pump for convenience. The Hegen PCTO™ Double Electric Breast Pump is ideal as its flanges are designed to be comfortable and gentle on your nipples – they would not hurt even with how often you would need to power pump.

When to power pump and how often

You can do a little power pumping if your breast milk supply is low. Some telltale signs of low milk supply are that your baby is not gaining enough weight or has fewer wet diapers.

However, approach your lactation consultant to assess whether you have low breast milk supply. Those who do not have this issue should not do power pumping as it may lead to milk overproduction and engorged breasts.

If you can power pump, do it once or twice daily. Be patient and always take your breaks to avoid unnecessary discomfort.

Conclusion

Power pumping appropriately can effectively increase the amount of milk you produce for your baby. Consistency with your power pumping schedules and not exceeding the number of times you do it a day is essential in keeping the breast pain away. Pumping should be a comfortable experience.

Ensure you have good-quality breast pumps and baby supplies to make the best of your pump sessions. You should attend a post-natal lactation consultation for more advice if you have any lingering concerns about power pumping, low breast milk supply, or other breastfeeding problems.

Here at Hegen, we offer you the ergonomic Hegen PCTO™ Double Electric Breast Pump that makes pumping effortless. We also provide post-natal consultations and other services to help you and provide comfort so you can have the best motherhood journey possible. Visit our website today to find out more about our products and services.