A Guide to Breast Pumps: What You Need to Know
Whether you're planning to return to work, build a milk stash, or simply need a break, a breast pump can be an invaluable tool on your breastfeeding journey. But with so many options and conflicting advice, choosing and using a breast pump can feel overwhelming. Here's everything you need to know—from the basics to expert hacks.
🍼 What Is a Breast Pump?
A breast pump is a device that helps extract breast milk from the breasts. Pumps can be used occasionally (for relief or flexibility) or regularly (for exclusive pumping, returning to work, or increasing supply).
There are two main types:
Manual Pumps: Hand-operated, affordable, and great for occasional use.
Electric Pumps: Powered by electricity or batteries, ideal for frequent or long-term pumping. These come in:
Single or Double Pumps
Wearable/Hands-Free Models
Hospital-Grade Pumps
🔍 What to Look for in a Quality Pump
A high-quality pump makes all the difference in comfort and milk output. Look for:
Adjustable suction and cycle settings – to mimic baby’s natural nursing rhythm
Suction Strength - ideally over 250mmHg unless you have an abundance of milk
Quiet motor – for workplace or night time pumping
Closed system design – to prevent milk from backing up into tubing
Comfortable, properly-sized flanges – more on this below!
Ease of cleaning – fewer parts = less hassle
⏰ When Should You Pump?
Your pumping schedule will vary depending on your goals. Here's a general guide:
To build a stash: Start pumping once a day a few weeks before returning to work, ideally 30-60 minutes after a morning feed.
To maintain supply: Pump at the same frequency your baby would nurse.
To increase supply: Try “power pumping”—mimicking cluster feeding with short pumping bursts over an hour.
If you're exclusively pumping: Aim for 8–12 sessions per 24 hours, especially in the first 12 weeks.
🧩 Flange Size Matters (A Lot)
Many pumping problems—low output, pain, clogged ducts—can be traced to using the wrong flange size. Flanges should gently surround your nipple without pulling in excess areola or causing friction.
To find your size:
Measure the diameter of your nipple (not the areola) in millimeters.
Try 3 different sizes, the exact measurement plus one size up and one size down.
Try different sizes if you experience pain, redness, or reduced output.
✨Try our silicone inserts to adjust the size or custom-fit options—don’t be afraid to experiment for comfort and effectiveness.
💡 Pumping Hacks You’ll Love
Hands-Free Bras: Game-changer for multitasking during sessions.
Use Warmth & Massage: A warm compress and gentle circular massage (like you are patting a cat) before and during pumping can boost output.
Store Directly in Bags: Use adapters to pump directly into storage bags and skip the transfer mess.
Label with Details: Include date, time, and volume on bags to better understand your supply patterns.
Listen to the Feher Recording: Pumping mums who listened to this recording in Neonates, doubled their output in the study.
Create a Pumping Station: Keep everything you need—pump parts, snacks, water, charger—ready to go.
📘 Want Even More Support?
Check out our Extensive Digital Pumping Guide—your complete roadmap to pumping success!
🎉 Whether you're just starting or trying to fine-tune your routine, this guide has everything you need in one place.
👉 Buy the Pumping Guide Here and feel more confident and informed with every session.
🧠 Final Thoughts
A pump is a tool—and like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it. Getting the right setup, understanding your body, and having skilled lactation support can make all the difference. If you're struggling or unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant (like us at Supported Lactation 💛).
Need help finding the right pump or flange size? Book a consult—we’re here to support your unique journey.