What is Power Pumping?

Power pumping mimics cluster feeding, a baby’s way of getting all the milk they need. They feed on-and-off during one session, taking breaks away from the breast before returning several minutes later. Breast milk operates based on demand; if the breast is aware that the baby is hungry through stimulation, it will release more milk through a letdown (when your milk is available). 

Power pumping is another way to stimulate the breast, indicating that it needs to produce more milk by mimicking cluster feeding. Power pumping involves using a breast pump on and off during an extended session to trick the body into increasing its milk supply by quickly emptying the breasts.  

How do You Power Pump

To power pump, sit down for about an hour to pump at intervals. You can choose between pumping for twenty minutes at a time and resting for ten, or pumping in shorter spurts. No matter the time allotments you choose, all that matters is that you’re getting enough pumping in and milk coming out. Try to get through your first letdown before switching to resting. 

Power pumping isn’t an alternative to regular feeding sessions, but rather to produce more milk. However, it can replace one session in your regular schedule. We suggest that you power pump every two or three days to get the most out of it. Feel free to enjoy yourself during the session and relax as much as you can by watching a TV show or reading a book. 

What are the Best Breast Pumps for Power Pumping?

The good news is that you can use any breast pump you want, including a manual one, to power pump. Find a pump you’re comfortable with using during a power pumping session. Below are a few of our recommendations.

Elvie Stride

The Elvie Stride is a super convenient and mobile breast pump for moms who are constantly on the move. It’s hands-free, so all you have to do is hook it up, sit back, and relax. You can even control this ultra-quiet pump straight from your phone!

Spectra S1 Plus

The Spectra S1 Plus offers a massage mode that simulates the natural suckling of your baby, making it a perfect option to stimulate your breast into producing more milk during power pumping.   

Lansinoh Smartpump 2.0 Starter Set

Lansinoh’s Smartpump 2.0 Double Electric Breast Pump offers three pumping styles to choose from that match your baby’s natural feeding patterns. It also includes two mode technology for letdown and expression modes to maximize breastmilk expression with automatic switching. 

No matter which pump you choose, any can be used for power pumping. You’ll be the one sitting there for an hour, pumping away, so make sure to pick based on your own preferences. Also consider if you’re going to be carrying the same pump around often, as your activity level may affect your choice. 

Not every mom needs to power pump, and some may be worried about low supply even when the amount of milk produced is healthy. Check with a doctor or lactation specialist if you’re not sure when or if to power pump. At Pumps For Mom, we’re here to help with all of your breastfeeding needs and can answer any questions you have about pumping. 

Did you know that you can get a breast pump free through insurance? Most insurance providers will provide a breast pump to any nursing mom! Reach out to Pumps For Mom. Our maternity product specialists can help you qualify for a breast pump and begin your journey towards power pumping. 

Eat This: Lots of Protein

Protein is excellent for the body any time, and especially when you’re breastfeeding! Eat lots of meat, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, dairy, and seeds to stay strong. Protein is essential for breastfeeding mamas because it provides nourishment for your baby. 

Don’t Eat This: Fish that Might Contain Mercury.

While most fish types are okay to eat while breastfeeding, avoid anything like shark, swordfish, marlin, or others that might have high mercury content. Also necessary to avoid while pregnant, mercury can pass in small amounts to a child through breast milk and affect their brain and nervous system development. 

Eat This: Fruits and Veggies

As always, make sure to eat your fruits and veggies. Try to consume three servings of green and yellow vegetables per day, and get two servings of fruit. Vegetables provide vitamins and antioxidants, while fruits are also nutritious and may also help relieve constipation. Look for fruits and veggies that contain high potassium or Vitamin A levels, like spinach, carrots, bananas, and mangoes.  

Limit This: Fatty Foods

While it won’t hurt anyone to have fatty food now and then, it’s best to avoid cakes and cookies that have high sugar content. High saturated fats do not give you the nutrients you need for your breast milk, and they can lead to other health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Eat This: Healthy Grains and Starches

Stock up on potatoes, pasta, and whole grains to fill up with all the nutrients you need. You’ll also get a lot of fiber, B vitamins, and minerals from these foods, which is excellent while breastfeeding because they will keep you full without the energy dips from other foods.

Limit This: Caffeine and Alcohol

While it’s okay to drink alcohol and ingest caffeine while breastfeeding, it’s best to do both in small doses. After drinking alcohol, wait a few hours before feeding or “pump and dump” if you still feel the effects of the drink. As far as caffeine, keep in mind that it may affect your baby’s sleeping habits. As always, consult with your doctor before deciding to drink alcohol or caffeine. 

Herbs that Help Breastfeeding

Some herbs are helpful when breastfeeding, while others are known to decrease breast milk production. Herbs that are classified as galactagogues are known to help increase milk production. If you’re stressed or unable to rest and need something to help boost your supply, try incorporating the following herbs and other supplements into your diet:

• Fenugreek
• Fennel
• Alfalfa
• Blessed Thistle
• Brewer’s Yeast
• Moringa
• Shatavari
• Milk Thistle
• Goat’s Rue
• Vitex
• Stinging Nettle
• Brewer’s Yeast
• Ginger
• Garlic

Herbs to Avoid While Breastfeeding

Other herbs, often classified as anti-galactagogues, are best to avoid due to their limiting effects on breast milk production Some of these herbs to avoid include:

• Black walnut
• Chickweed
• Herb Robert
• Lemon Balm
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Peppermint
• Periwinkle Herb
• Sage
• Sorrel
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Yarrow

The best thing to do when in doubt about what to eat and avoid while breastfeeding is consult with your doctor. The key is to eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of nutrients, and you’re likely already on the right track towards providing healthy milk for your baby. If you have any questions about breastfeeding or want to know more about our breast pumps, reach out to Pumps For Mom today to say hello!