Why Does Pumping Take So Long?

Why does pumping take so long? (And how long SHOULD it take?)
Scroll through this post to find common reasons pumping can take so much time (or seem like it’s taking so long!)

Pumping is a completely different experience than nursing, obviously. So… a mother who spends 2 hours a day pumping might feel more restrained than a mother who spends double that time nursing. Pumping may weight on them more mentally and logistically than time spent nursing. Why DOES it take so long?

• Welll…. there is no “normal” because every momma and every pump is different, BUT:
• Your letdown should typically occur within the first 2 minutes.
• I like to see mommas emptying within 30 minutes, ideally.
• Ideally, I like to see efficient 15-20min sessions.

• Flange. Size. Matters.
• A very small percentage of mommas that I’ve worked with fit the “standard” size of 24mm that comes with most pumps and barely any have fit the one other option that comes with pumps, 27/28mm.
• A flange that is too large may not empty you fully or efficiently, aside from any pain it might be causing.
• For more on flange size, take a look at THIS post… it’ll be super helpful!

• Have you changed your valves recently?
• Valves are the most important part of your pumping stuff when it comes to suction. Other parts only need to be changed if they become damaged/warped/cracked.
• Exclusive pumpers should change their valves MONTHLY. Occasional pumpers should change them every 3 months.

• Everyone’s body responds differently to different pumps. Your pump might not be emptying you fully or efficiently, taking too long!
• Have you tried a different brand/model of pump? Have you learned how to use a manual pump? Some mommas can empty quicker with a manual pump, or even hand-expression!
• Pumps wear out! Is yours used, or from a previous baby?
• Are you using your settings effectively? This could be something to discuss with your lactation consultatsant!

• Did you know that the stress hormone Cortizol can inhitibit the flow of Oxytocin during pumping? Oxytocin in the looooove hormone that also controls our let-down (milk ejection reflex)!
• Environmental factors that cause stress can effect your letdown/time to empty
• Create a calm environment, or fake one by using headphones, calming music, and something peaceful to look at/watch
• Tune in to your 5 senses. Are you comfortable? Could you use a blanket , sweater, or slippers? Is it noisy where you are? Are you stressed out by the mess you’re looking at? Does something stink? Light a candle or apply a lavendar lotion! Are you hungry? Hunger can definitely cause stress! Pack a snack & drink in your pumping bag.

• Many mommas need to remain hands-on during their pumping session to effectively extract milk. This can cause a session to last a long time and be very demanding or even damaging to your hands
• Work closely with a lactation professional to troubleshoot any other contributing factors in this is the case.
• Make sure that you have a properly sized flange and quality pump

• Some mommas may experience multiple letdowns during one pumping session. (Which is awesome, but can take forever to wait for a second or third letdown)
• Try turning your pump off and on, or switching back to stimulation/letdown mode when your milk flow slows to try to initiate another letdown sooner than otherwise would happen on its own.
• When your flow begins to slow, that’s the time to turn the pump off, wait a minute, then turn back on, to initiate another letdown.

• Pumping is often time consuming and can be stressful to a new mommas and her family.
• Please have grace with yourself and do what’s best for your physical and mental health.
• Weigh your priorities. Is it worth it to drop a pump session and get more time in your day (or night!) and possibly reduce a few ounces and/or begin supplementing? It may help you strike a more comfortable balance and actually help you pump longer you expected!
• Consider setting up a consultation with a lactation professional to discuss your breastfeeding goals.

Did I miss a reason? Comment below!