Many moms who exclusively pump wonder how often they need to pump to have a full milk supply (around 20-25 ounces per day). 

At first, most moms will need to pump often (at least 8 times per day). After about 6 weeks, when milk supply is established, many moms can pump less often and not decrease their supply. 

The amount of times you should pump depends on how much space your milk-making glands have, not on your breast size. The table below can help you know how many times per day you may need to pump to maintain, increase, or decrease your milk supply based on your storage size.1

Amount Pumped

(based on your largest pump session with both breasts in the last few days*)

Number of Pump Sessions to Increase Milk Supply

Number of Pump Sessions to Maintain Milk Supply

Number of Pump Sessions to Decrease Milk Supply

10+ oz

 6-7 times/day 5-6 times/day 3-4 times/day

5-9 oz

 7-8 times/day 6-7 times/day 4-5 times/day

3-5 oz

 8-9 times/day 7-8 times/day 5-6 times/day 

2-3 oz

 9-10 times/day 8-9 times/day 6-7 times/day

*Usually middle of the night or in the morning