What is Power Pumping

We often recommend power pumping to our parents that are struggling with their breast milk supply. But What is Power Pumping?

Power pumping is a time tested method to boost supply. It’s not meant to be utilized every time you pump.

How long does power pumping take?

You want to give yourself around an hour. You pump for 20 minutes, then take a 10 minute break..and then pump on and off for the rest of the hour. Alternatively it’s sometimes recommended to watch an hour long show on Cable [or Hulu with ads] and pump during the commercial breaks!

Why does power pumping work?

Power pumping mimics a baby cluster feeding. Cluster feeding is a baby’s way of telling the breasts to create more milk because they are going through a growth spurt.

How often should I power pump?

We typically recommend to power pump 1x a day for three days and then see where your supply is after. Some parents choose to power pump 1-2x a week as maintenance to get ahead of any potential supply dips.

More pumping is not better. It can be exhausting, cause an over supply, and cause discomfort or even damage to the nipples and breast tissue.

Do you have more questions about pumping in general? Check out our pumping 101 blog or our Feeding Your Baby mini series!