How to Use a Breast Pump

How Do Breast Pumps Work?

Breast pumps are designed to mimic your baby’s natural feeding pattern, helping you express breast milk comfortably and efficiently.  Here's how they work:

• Speed and Strength: Just like a breastfeeding baby, a breast pump imitates the rhythmic pattern of sucking. At the start of a feeding, babies suck quickly to trigger the “let-down” of milk. Once this milk flow starts, their sucking slows but becomes stronger as they swallow. Your double electric breast pump or manual pump works similarly—starting with quick suction to get the milk flowing, then slowing down to help maximize milk removal.
• Milk Collection: As your milk is expressed, it collects in a storage container—whether that’s a bottle, a bag, or a collection cup. This milk can then be safely stored for later use in bottles, breast milk storage bags, or by using the pitcher method.
• Flanges (Breast Shields): These funnel-shaped plastic or silicone parts fit over your nipple and areola to create a seal. As the pump activates, the nipple is gently drawn into the flange, encouraging your milk to flow. Your nipple should move comfortably within the flange tunnel—if it feels too tight, you might need a larger size. If your areola is also getting pulled into the tunnel, your flange may be too big. It’s important to choose the right flange size for the most milk output and comfort.

How to Set Up Your Breast Pump

Setting up your breast pump might feel like a lot at first, but don’t stress—it's easier than you think! Here's how to get started:

• Prepare Before Baby Arrives: Don’t wait until your baby is here to figure out how to set up your pump. Take some time before your due date to familiarize yourself with the pump parts and how they fit together. This way, you’ll feel confident when you need to use it.
• Read the Manual: We know, instruction manuals aren’t the most exciting read, but they’re really helpful! They’ll guide you through setup and troubleshooting. Some pump manufacturers also offer video tutorials to make things even easier—check YouTube for extra tips!
• Clean Your Pump Parts: Before using your pump for the first time, make sure all infant feeding items are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
• Allow Parts to Dry: After washing and sanitizing, give your pump parts plenty of time to air dry before you store or assemble them. 

Tips for Using Your Breast Pump

Once you’re set up, here’s how to use your breast pump: 

• Find a Comfortable Spot: Take a deep breath, get comfortable, and settle in. Make sure you have a snack and your water bottle nearby—pumping is a great time to give yourself some self-care!
• Assemble Your Pump: Double-check that all parts are in place and assembled correctly. This ensures everything is ready to go without any last-minute surprises. Double pumping, pumping both breasts at the same time, typically yields the most amount of milk in the least amount of time.
• Use a Hands-Free Pumping Bra: This can be a game changer! It allows you to adjust your settings, massage your breasts, or even multitask while you pump.
• Turn on the Pump: Hit the power button and select “stimulate” or “let down” mode. Start with your pump settings on a low suction strength and gradually increase it to the level that’s most comfortable for you.  
• Expression Mode: Once you see drops or sprays of milk, switch to “expression” mode. This slows down the pump’s speed but may allow you to increase the suction strength. As always, stick to the maximum comfortable setting—it should never hurt.
• Experiment: Every mom is different. Some prefer switching between settings during the session, while others stick to one setting the whole time. Take your time to experiment with different suction and speed levels, and figure out what works best for you.
• Storing Your Milk: After your pumping session, be sure to store your milk properly.  Label your containers with the date and time of day so you can stay organized and ensure it stays fresh for your baby. If you need to transport milk, keep it cold with ice packs in an insulated cooler. This is the best way to keep it safe until you can store breast milk in the fridge or freezer.
• Save this Quick Guide to have important information at your fingertips when you start pumping.

When Should I Start Pumping?

If breastfeeding is going smoothly, you don’t need to start pumping right away. It’s usually best to wait until breastfeeding is well-established—around 4 to 6 weeks postpartum—before introducing regular pumping. This gives you and your baby time to get comfortable breastfeeding and helps you build a solid supply without accidentally making too much milk. 

• If Baby is Unable to Breastfeed: If your baby is premature, in the NICU, or unable to breastfeed for any reason, it's important to begin hand expression as soon as possible after your baby’s birth—ideally within the first hour—to express and collect colostrum, and stimulate your milk production. Start pumping within the first 6 hours after delivery, aiming for at least 8 pumping sessions per day, including at least once in the middle of the night. After each pumping session, hand express to remove even more milk since combining pumping and hand expression helps to increase supply and boosts the calorie and fat content of your milk.
• If You Plan to Return to Work: If you’re planning to return to work, try to start pumping at least a few weeks before you head back. This gives you time to get comfortable with pumping, build up a small freezer stash, and make sure your baby is transitioning well to bottle feeding.
• If You Want or Need Extra Milk: Many moms find their milk supply is highest in the morning. Pumping after your baby’s first morning feeding can be the best time to express extra milk for future use.
• While Baby Gets a Bottle: If you skip a breastfeeding session and your baby gets a bottle instead, don’t forget to pump! This helps keep your milk supply steady by sending the signal to your body to keep producing.

Can a Lactation Consultant Appointment Help?

Meeting with a lactation consultant can give you personalized support and expert advice as you learn to pump. While it may feel like a big learning curve at first, with time and practice pumping can become an empowering part of your breastfeeding journey. Every mom’s experience is different, so don’t be afraid to try different techniques until you find what works best for you. Whether you’re maintaining supply, building a stash, or providing milk while you’re apart, remember—you’re doing an amazing job giving your baby the very best.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare and/or lactation provider.