Let me tell yall about the power of power pumping. I went to Homecoming and when I came back, my milk supply was almost nonexistent (inserts mama guilt). If you have ever been to a HBCU homecoming, specifically at FAMU (iykyk), then you know how the good times roll (and how the libations flow). This was my first time being away from Win for more than a couple of hours. While very nervous and sad to be away from my baby for the weekend, I knew hubby and I needed this time to get away and have a good time. Plus, I was celebrating 15 years in Deltaland (shoutout to the BADST). Once on the road, it hit me. Win had plenty of breastmilk in the freezer and now I could partake in adult beverages and not worry about the clock (read: pump & dump). So, I did. All. Weekend. It was a tiiiiimmmmeeee!
Back at the ranch…
Okay, so now I get back home. The next morning, I hooked up to my pump and my 20-minute session gave me ONE OUNCE. Hol Up! My morning session always gave me an output of at least 5 ounces. Aight, let me see how the next pump goes. A few hours later, my output was HALF AN OUNCE. Now, I’m trippin. What have I done? Was the tequila worth it? I shouldn’t have gone! Do I have to transition Win to formula now?
Pause. There is absolutely nothing wrong formula feeding. The goal is to feed your baby, period! However, for me, it was a personal goal to serve my boy breastmilk for one year and I was willing to do everything in my power to make that happen.
Okay, so yeah, I was internally spiraling. Is this the end of our breastmilk journey? The only thing I could think to do was to pray. My prayer led me to Google and Google led me to power pumping. At first sight, it seemed a little overwhelming, but again, I was willing to do anything for my boy’s milk. I also needed to rebuild my freezer stash because I would be leaving Win again a few months later. I was already losing my mind, so I figured what else did I have to lose (shrugs)?
What is power pumping?
Power pumping involves pumping in short bursts with breaks in between to simulate the way a baby would nurse.
Who can benefit from power pumping?
Whether you are exclusively pumping or doing a mix of nursing and pumping, you may be looking for ways to increase your milk supply and make the most of your pumping sessions. Research has shown power pumping to be extremely effective and I’m here to say IT WORKED FOR ME (on more than one occasion).
How do you power pump?
First off, choosing the right time to power pump is key. It is best to power pump when you have the most milk production, which is usually in the morning. Early mornings (around 5 am) worked best for me. At the time, Win was consistently waking up between 6 and 6:15 so, 5 am gave me just over an hour to get my pumping session done. Find a time when you have at least an hour to dedicate to pumping and can pump without interruptions.
So, how do you power pump? Let’s get into it.
Pump for 20 minutes. To start the power pumping session, pump for 20 minutes, just like you would during a regular pumping session.
Take a break for 10 minutes. After 20 minutes of pumping, take a 10-minute break. This break allows your body to rest and simulate the natural rhythm of breastfeeding.
Pump for 10 minutes. After your break, pump for 10 minutes. This shorter pumping session simulates how a baby would nurse when they are close to finishing.
Take another 10-minute break. After the 10-minute pumping session, take another 10-minute break before starting the final pumping session.
Pump for 10 minutes. During the final 10-minute pumping session, your milk production should be stimulated, and you may notice that your breasts are fuller than when you started. This final pumping session simulates how a baby would nurse when they are seeking to stimulate milk production.
How often do you power pump?
I did this method twice a day (early morning and just before bed) for three consecutive days. The following three days, I power pumped once a day. You can continue power pumping sessions until you reach your desired milk supply.
Helpful hint: Use a hands-free pumping bra, I loved this one which worked perfectly with my Spectra pump, to make power pumping easier. This leaves your hands free to do other things, including massaging your breasts, which can stimulate milk production even more. Side note: If it’s not too personal for ya, a hands free pumping bra is also a great gift for a new mama. See my other gift ideas here.
Takeaway
By following these steps, you can stimulate milk production and achieve a higher milk supply. Remember to be patient and persistent, as it may take several sessions to see the full benefits. Like anything else, power pumping does not work for everyone, but before you give up your pumping journey it is worth a try.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, just a recently retired pumping mama.
That’s It. That’s All Yall.
J. Bai
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