Best Time to Pump?

What worked for me was when my son was feedind on one side I would pump the other. Another key is to drink lots of water it helps keep the milk gonig.

Right after the first morning feeding (ours is usually 5-6a). And right before bed. My baby goes down at 8, and I pump about 10p to have bottles on hand and to keep from getting so full that it wakes me up.

Generally speaking, the best time is in between feedings. So, for example, if the first feeding is at 8 am, then pump around 9:30 or 10. This will give you a chance to start filling up again. But, you won't want to go too long and not have enough milk for the next feeding. Remember the more you nurse or pump, the more milk you'll produce.

First thing in the morning is when you have the most milk.

I'd wait 6 weeks after the baby is born to ensure your milk supply is firmly established. Then the morning is the best time - right after you feed the baby. That's when you produce the most milk. If you're going to be away from the baby all day, just pump on the baby's schedule...every 3 hours or so. I hope that helps!

Hi A.!
The mornings are best! Good luck.
L.

First thing in the morning, after baby's first feed.

Between 4-6AM, or right after you nurse.

I always found that first thing in the morning your supply is at its best! After that I did it when it was convenient for me. Like when my daughter took her morning nap. So I did it at 5 am and then again at 9 am. The afternoons my supply was a little lower so I would get a little less but still would try because every little bit helps.

Once you have your milk established and get on a routine of pumping (it helps to be consistent with it) it will become easier.

Hi A. - There isn't really any one answer to this question... it's basically whenever you need to/want to keep your milk production up. Most women get a lot of milk pumped first thing in the morning, as I did, but it also depends on whether or not you are nursing, or just exclusively pumping. If you are mostly nursing, try pumping a little about a half hour or so after your baby eats to keep your body producing, and maybe even making more. Your body produces milk based on the pattern of needs it settles in to, i.e., whenever your baby eats. When the baby is on more of a schedule, you'll notice your breasts become full around the time your baby usually feeds. My experience with my youngest was that if my baby nursed for a long time and on both sides, there wasn't much left to pump right after - I had to wait a bit. But that was just me! If I knew I was going to be out or if she didn't nurse when she was due, I would pump then so I could keep up the milk supply. With my oldest, she actually preferred the bottle to nursing (typical of her stubborn self!!) so I made sure to pump about every 3 hours or so after the first few weeks to keep the supply up. This way, I always had milk ready for her feeding.

Some women are also just big milk producers and can nurse AND pump so they can store milk in the freezer for the future. I wasn't like this, but I know women who are! Good luck with everything - you will find a routine that works best for you. It just takes a little time, but you will figure it out. You might also be sure to keep in contact with a lactation specialist from your hospital or OB's office. They are great as well.

In the morning you're usually the fullest and can get the most out. That's when I did a lot of it.

Jen

I pumped before I nursed the baby. Because my breasts were full and I could produce milk and then my breasts would produce more milk for the baby when he actually was nursing. Also, first thing in the morning.

A., I've found first thing in the morning is the best time. Especially once they are sleeping more! True your body will adjust to what ever you do.
Good Luck & happy pumping.

A.,

It depends on what you are trying to do. If you are pumping to feed your baby primarily breast milk bottles because he/she won't latch, then you need to pump EVERY single time the baby eats. This will stimulate your production to match the baby's demand. If you skip pumps, your supply will decrease and you won't be able to meet baby's needs. Due to inability to latch, I did this for over a year and it is absolutely possible. If you are pumping to supplement when you are away and are only pumping to provide that rare bottle and primarily nursing then your best volumes will be in the morning. In any event, congrats on wanting to provide your baby with breast milk.

Good luck,
S.