Breastfeeding is a journey. And let’s be real, it can sometimes feel like a wild rollercoaster you never actually signed up for. Add pumping into the mix? Suddenly you’re juggling bottles, flange sizes, time schedules, and maybe a crying baby in one hand while the pump hums like an off-key robot in the background.
If you’re here, chances are you’re navigating the pump life, exclusively or part-time, and feeling all the feelings: overwhelmed, tired, maybe a little confused. You’re not alone. Let’s walk through the biggest mistakes new parents make while pumping (and yes, we’ll fix them together).
1. Using the Wrong Flange Size (It’s a Thing a Big One)
Let’s start here because this is surprisingly common. That little plastic part that goes over your nipple? It needs to fit. Like, actually fit.
Too big? Your areola gets pulled in too much and causes pain. Too small? Your nipple gets squished and traumatized. Not fun either way. And it affects milk output.
Quick Tip: Your nipple should move freely in the tunnel without too much areola being sucked in. There are printable sizing guides online (check brands like Medela, Spectra, or LactationHub).
You know what? If pumping hurts, it probably isn’t just you being dramatic. Pain usually means something’s off. Don’t power through it. Fix it.
2. Skipping Hands-on Pumping (Yes, Your Hands Still Matter)
Pumping can feel a little robotic, literally. But studies have shown (Stanford, we see you) that massaging your breasts while pumping can increase milk output by 48%. That’s almost half a bottle more.
So instead of scrolling TikTok or zoning out (hey, no shade), try warm compresses and gentle compressions. You can still binge-watch, just with one hand doing light breast massage. It helps with milk letdown and gets those fatty hindmilk drops flowing.
3. Pumping Too Much or Too Little (Your Boobs Are Not a Factory)
There’s this myth that pumping more = more milk. Not entirely true. Your body operates on demand and supply and hormones.
Pumping too often can actually signal stress, especially early postpartum when your body is trying to figure itself out. On the flip side, not pumping enough sends the signal: “Eh, we don’t need much milk.”
Aim for:
- 8 to 12 sessions per day if exclusively pumping (yup, even at night)
- Pump every 3 hours in the newborn stage
- For working moms: mimic baby’s feeding schedule as much as possible
And yes, some parents respond better to pumps than others. Your worth isn’t measured in ounces.
4. Ignoring Pump Maintenance (Because It’s Not Just Plug and Play)
Ever feel like your pump isn’t sucking as strong as it used to? Or that output dropped suddenly? The culprit could be as simple as worn-out valves or membranes. These parts wear down quickly, especially with daily use.
Check the manuals (yes, that annoying paper) for replacement schedules. Usually:
- Valves/membranes: every 2-8 weeks
- Tubing: if you see moisture or mold, toss it
- Backflow protectors: every few months or when suction changes
A drop in suction = a drop in milk. Keep the gear fresh.
5. Not Replacing Pump Parts on Time (Spoiler: They Don’t Last Forever)
Yes, this needed its own section. Pumping parts have shorter lifespans than we realize. Those soft silicone flaps? They work hard. And tired parts = less suction = less milk.
Even if they look fine, micro-tears affect function.
Rule of thumb? If your output suddenly tanks and you haven’t changed anything else, check your parts. Often, it’s not you. It’s them.
6. Skipping Night Pumps (We Know, Sleep Matters. But.)
This one’s tough. Sleep is sacred, especially when you’re postpartum and running on fumes. But if you’re exclusively pumping or building supply, those middle-of-the-night sessions are gold.
Prolactin (your milk-making hormone) peaks at night. That 2 a.m. pump? It’s magic. Drop it too soon, and supply can take a hit.
Try: Power pumping in the morning to make up for skipped night sessions if you just can’t hang.
7. Not Staying Hydrated or Nourished (You’re a Human, Not a Cow)
This sounds basic, but you’d be shocked how many parents forget to eat or drink water. Breastmilk is 90% water. If you’re dry, so is your output.
Keep a snack and water bottle by your pump station. Think one-handed foods: trail mix, fruit slices, protein bars. And yes, coffee counts. Sort of.
8. Comparing Output with Others (Comparison Is the Thief of Joy, and Supply)
Every body is different. Some people pump 2 oz total and that’s amazing. Others fill 8 oz bottles every session. Genetics, hormones, anatomy, stress, pump quality, it all plays a role.
Also, exclusive pumpers often see less volume than direct nursing. That doesn’t make you any less.
Let’s retire the “How much do you pump?” question from every mom group, shall we?
9. Using the Wrong Pump Settings (More Power Doesn’t Always Mean More Milk)
It’s tempting to crank up the suction thinking it’ll pull more milk. But your body doesn’t work like that. Stronger suction can actually slow letdown and damage tissue.
Here’s the trick:
- Start on stimulation mode (faster, lighter suction) for 2-3 mins
- Switch to expression mode (slower, deeper suction) once milk flows
- Use the lowest suction that feels comfortable but effective
Play with the settings, your comfort matters.
10. Not Asking for Help (We Weren’t Meant to Do This Alone)
Lactation consultants exist for a reason. But so many parents wait until they’re drowning to reach out. Early intervention can save your supply, your nipples, and your sanity.
And it doesn’t have to be in person. Online consults, DMs, even solid YouTube channels can be lifelines.
You deserve support.
Bonus: Storing Milk Incorrectly (Because Spilled Milk Is Worth Crying Over)
Ever lost 6 ounces to a leaky bag? The pain is real. Let’s avoid that.
Quick Reminders:
- Fridge: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: 6 months (deep freezer? 12 months)
- Label bags with date and amount
- Don’t fill bags to the top (they expand when frozen!)
- Thaw oldest milk first (FIFO)
Also, never microwave breast milk. Just don’t. Warm in water.
Wrapping It Up: Give Yourself Grace
Pumping isn’t natural for most of us. It’s learned. It’s weird. It’s awkward. And it can be frustrating as hell. But you’re doing it, through the leaks, late-night sessions, and those moments you stare at the pump like it owes you something.
You’re not failing. You’re feeding your baby the best way you can. Mistakes? Sure, they happen. But they don’t define you.
Let this article be your reminder: You’re not alone. You’re doing great. And the pump doesn’t get the final word, you do.
Keep going. You’ve got this.