Exclusive Pumping Schedules: Everything You Need to Know

BY KATIE CLARK, IBCLC

Exclusive Pumping Schedules

For exclusively pumping moms, it can feel overwhelming to know how to establish and maintain your supply. There are so many opinions on what you should be doing – it’s challenging to navigate.

As an IBCLC who’s worked with countless moms on their pumping journeys, I know that creating a schedule that works for your body and lifestyle is key to establishing and maintaining your milk supply.

While every situation is different, this article will share some helpful advice on how to build and maintain your supply and what an ideal schedule might look like. Consider signing up for Fuss-Free Pumping for even more pumping support and advice!

How Often Should You Pump While Exclusively Pumping

In the Early Weeks (0–12 weeks):

The first few weeks postpartum are crucial for establishing your milk supply. Your body is still figuring out how much milk your baby needs, and pumping frequently helps signal that demand. Ideally, you’ll want to pump every 2-3 hours during the day and every 3-4 hours at night—aiming for 8-12 sessions per 24 hours with 1-2 night sessions (yes, those night removals are essential!).

Why so often? Milk production works on a supply-and-demand basis. The more frequently milk is removed (via nursing or pumping), the more your body will produce. Nighttime pumping is especially important in the early stages because your body produces more prolactin, the hormone that drives milk production, during these hours.

In the first 6-8 weeks, you establish prolactin receptors. This helps determine how much milk your breasts can produce throughout your journey. The more you empty your breasts during this time, the more receptors are established. It’s essential to not over-pump – but you don’t want to under-pump, either!

After 12 Weeks (Mature Supply):

Once your supply is established, typically around the 12-week mark, you can start experimenting with reducing the number of sessions if desired. However, this should be done gradually to avoid clogged ducts, mastitis, or a sudden drop in supply. Most moms settle into 6-8 pumping sessions per day, but some find that 5-6 sessions still allow them to meet their baby’s needs, while others need 10.

When trying to decrease pumping sessions, you need to determine what the max amount of milk you’re willing to lose is. If you go below that amount, you will know that you should adjust things.

Example Pumping Schedules Based on Supply

One of the most common concerns I hear is, “Am I making enough milk?” The answer often depends on your personal goals and how much your baby is drinking. All moms have a different amount of milk that they can comfortably produce. The amounts below are based on how much you can make without feeling uncomfortable or having lots of clogged ducts.

Remember, these are only examples. Make sure you work with a lactation professional to determine the best approach for YOUR needs (our team would be happy to help you!)

1. Higher Supply (40+ ounces a day):

If you are producing a higher volume of breast milk, you might not need as many pumping sessions to keep up. Here’s a sample schedule:

  • 6 a.m.
  • 9 a.m.
  • 12 p.m.
  • 3 p.m.
  • 6 p.m.
  • 10 p.m.

This schedule has six sessions, but if your supply is strong and consistent, you might find that 5 sessions are enough. It does not include a middle-of-the-night session, which you may need to experiment with. Most moms need this, but sometimes those with larger supplies do not find it necessary.

2. Average Supply (25-35 oz/day):

For most moms, an average supply can be maintained with 7-8 pumping sessions per day, spaced more evenly throughout the day and night:

  • 6 a.m.
  • 9 a.m.
  • 12 p.m.
  • 3 p.m.
  • 6 p.m.
  • 9 p.m.
  • 2 a.m.

For those with average supplies, you will likely need at least one middle of the night pumping session throughout the time you are pumping.

3. Lower Supply (Under 25 oz/day):


If you’re working to increase your supply or find that you produce on the lower side, you’ll want to pump more frequently. Here’s a schedule I’ve seen work well:

  • 5 a.m.
  • 8 a.m.
  • 11 a.m.
  • 2 p.m.
  • 5 p.m.
  • 8 p.m.
  • 11 p.m.
  • 3 a.m.

That extra nighttime session can make a difference when boosting supply!

Establishing Your Supply

The number of times you pump daily is crucial when you’re just starting out. Pumping frequently mimics the feeding patterns of a newborn, who would typically eat 8-12 times per day. If your baby were breastfeeding, those frequent feedings would signal to your body that more milk is needed. So, even though pumping might not feel quite as natural as nursing, the same principles apply.

It’s important to:

  • Pump consistently: Missing sessions can signal to your body that less milk is needed, which can lead to a decrease in supply.
  • Stick to the schedule: As tempting as it is to stretch the time between pumps, in the first 8-12 weeks, consistency is everything.
  • Pump for 15-20 minutes: Even if you don’t see milk immediately, stick with it for 15-20 minutes per session to give your body time to respond. This will help stimulate more milk production over time.
  • Aim for 120 minutes minimum: This number is recommended by number ous lactation professionals as the minimum number of times you need to maintain your supply. You may need more to establish.

Testing If You Can Reduce Pumping Sessions

Once your supply is established, you might be able to start reducing your pumping frequency, but this should be done carefully to avoid a sudden drop in supply.

Here’s how I recommend trying it:

  1. Drop one session at a time: Don’t jump from 8 to 5 sessions simultaneously. Drop one session, monitor your supply for about a week, and see if it remains consistent. If your supply drops, go back to your previous schedule for a bit before trying again.
  2. Shorten some sessions: If you’re not ready to drop a session entirely, try shortening a couple of sessions by 5-10 minutes. This can give you a bit more flexibility without reducing supply too drastically.
  3. Watch for clogged ducts: Clogged ducts are a risk when you start reducing the number of sessions, so be vigilant about any tenderness, lumps, or redness in your breasts. Regular massage while pumping can help prevent this.

Final Thoughts

Exclusive pumping is not for the faint of heart, but with the right tools and strategies, it can become a manageable part of your routine. The key to success is creating a pumping schedule that works for you, focusing on establishing your supply and finding the right balance between a primary pump and a wearable pump.

As an IBCLC, I’ve seen the difference a solid schedule can make for moms who want to provide breast milk for their babies but can’t or choose not to nurse directly. Every journey is unique, so don’t be afraid to tweak your schedule based on your needs, your baby’s growth, and your lifestyle.

You’ve got this, and I’m here to help every step of the way! For individualized recommendations and support, request a consult with our experienced team!

More Articles You May Enjoy:

Facebook
Twitter
Email
Print

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Welcome ToThe Breastfeeding Mama

Hi! I’m Katie Clark – mom of three and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Over the past eight years, I’ve dedicated my life to helping thousands of breastfeeding moms around the world overcome their breastfeeding problems and find peace in their journey. I can’t wait to help you!