Power pumping

Power pumping means pumping in short bursts with breaks for about an hour, to copy the way a cluster-feeding baby nurses often. It's one way to add breast stimulation when supply dips. Everyone responds differently.

Why it might help

Milk production follows milk removal. More frequent, thorough removal usually raises supply, with some effect at that session and more over several days. Adding an extra pumping session can help increase supply. Power pumping is one way to add that stimulation.

A sample hour

• An hour works best, but any amount counts.
• Once a day is a good start. If it suits you, a power pump can replace another regular session.
• There are no fixed rules, so choose a pattern that fits your day.

What the evidence says

The evidence is modest. Power pumping is a practical pattern that hospitals share, and it rests on the general finding that more frequent milk removal raises supply. It hasn't been well tested on its own. Give it several days before judging, since supply changes build over days.

Go easy

Pumping for very long sessions or at high suction can injure the nipple and breast. Keep suction comfortable. Pumping well beyond what your baby drinks can build an oversupply, which raises the chance of breast inflammation and mastitis. Power pumping is for supply that falls short, so go back to your usual routine once supply meets your baby's needs.

When to get help

• Supply keeps falling over several days, or your baby isn't gaining weight: talk to your pediatrician and a lactation consultant (IBCLC).
• Nipple pain, cracked skin, or a red, hot or hard area of the breast: call your doctor or midwife.