For many breastfeeding mums, maintaining a steady milk supply can feel like a rollercoaster. Whether you're experiencing a dip due to your cycle, returning to work, or just looking to build up a freezer stash, power pumping could be your best friend.
What Is Power Pumping?
Power pumping is a technique that mimics cluster feeding, a natural process where babies nurse more frequently to boost milk production. By using your pump in short, frequent bursts over an hour, you can stimulate your body to produce more milk.
How to Power Pump
Do this once per day for a few days to signal to your body to produce more milk.
| SINGLE PUMP | DOUBLE PUMP |
| 10 minutes pumping each side | 20 minutes pumping |
| 5 minutes rest | 10 minutes rest |
| 10 minutes pumping each side | 10 minutes pumping |
| 5 minutes rest | 10 minutes rest |
| 5 minutes pumping each side | 10 minutes pumping |
Why Does Power Pumping Work?
Breastmilk supply is driven by demand. The more frequently milk is removed from the breasts, the more milk your body will make. Power pumping gives your body the signal that more milk is needed, just like a baby’s cluster feeding sessions.
Pumping Tips for Maximum Output
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Find the right pump – Some mums get the best results with a hospital grade double electric pump, while others prefer a manual or hand expressing. Test what works for you.
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Hand express – Massage and breast compressions before and during pumping can help increase milk flow.
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Adjust your pump settings – Start with a faster setting to mimic a baby’s initial suckling, then slow down once milk starts flowing.
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Relax and distract yourself – Stress blocks oxytocin, which triggers milk let-down. Watch a show, listen to music, or cover the bottles to avoid fixating on the output.
Power Pumping & The Menstrual Cycle
Some mums experience supply dips around ovulation and menstruation. If this happens, power pumping can be a great way to maintain supply during those fluctuations. You can also support your supply with a nutrient-dense diet, think oats, flaxseed, and our lactation bars!
When Will You See Results?
Most mums notice an increase in supply within 3-7 days. However, everyone's body responds differently, so consistency is key. If power pumping doesn’t yield results, consider checking latch issues, nutrition, hydration, and stress levels.
Your Next Steps
Power pumping isn’t a quick fix, but it can be a game changer for boosting supply. Pair it with good hydration, nutrition, and rest for the best results. Need a snack to support your journey? Check out our lactation bars here!