how often should i pump while breastfeeding

When breastfeeding, it is recommended to pump about every 2 to 3 hours, which equates to roughly 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period. This frequency helps closely match a newborn's feeding pattern, stimulating milk production effectively. For mothers supplementing breastfeeding or building up milk supply, pumping after nursing or replacing one feeding with pumping is advised. As the baby grows and feeds less frequently but more at each feeding, the pumping schedule can be adjusted to every 3 to 4 hours. For mothers returning to work, pumping as often as the baby would normally feed during the workday—about every 2 to 3 hours—helps maintain supply. Additionally, pumping once during the night can support milk production since prolactin levels are higher then. It's essential to listen to the body's signals such as engorgement or leaking and adjust pumping frequency accordingly.