At Pippy Sips, our ears perk up when a social media post starts a conversation. Enter the normal pump trend...
The word "normal" is often not accurate or helpful when talking about breastfeeding and pumping. As a pumping parent, we are often worried about making "enough." Unfortunately, there is pressure to breastfeed (even if it's not working), make more milk (even if our bodies are struggling) and an overall pressure to feed our babies in an elusive "right way." And this is why the normal pump trend caught fire. Pumping parents were eager to talk about what was "normal" for them (as individuals) rather than comparing themselves to a metric being tossed around on the internet.
Seeing the comments on this post reminded us that conversation and community are SO important among feeding parents. And that redefining the word normal can bring pressure down. Which can consequently increase milk volume. Funny how that works.
At Pippy Sips, our mission is to make pumping more accessible and less daunting. Read on to learn more gentle tips for increasing pumping volume while not stressing about what "normal" means.
What is Normal Pumping Volume?
You might have noticed that your pumping output can vary significantly from day to day, or even session to session. This is completely "normal." And we mean that for real this time. Here are some key points to consider:
Factors Influencing Pumping Volume
- Time of Day: Milk supply typically peaks in the morning and decreases as the day progresses.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet can impact your milk production.
- Stress and Fatigue: High stress levels and lack of sleep can negatively affect your pumping volume.
- Frequency of Pumping: Regular pumping can help maintain and even boost your milk supply.
Tips for Optimizing Pumping Volume
To make the most of your pumping sessions, try incorporating these tips and check out a recent post by our favorite Pumping Mama, Crystal, with these tips:
- Relaxation: Find a quiet, comfortable space to pump and practice deep breathing or meditation.
- Massage and Compress: Gently massaging your breasts before and during pumping can stimulate milk flow.
- Warmth and Comfort: Use warm compresses on your breasts to help with letdown.
When to Seek Help
If you ever feel concerned about your pumping volume or suspect a low milk supply, don't hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. They can offer tailored advice and support to ensure you and your baby are thriving.
Remember, each mother’s journey is unique, and what’s normal for one may differ for another. At Pippy Sips, we're here to support you.