How Often Should You Pump?

For example، if you are pumping for a baby who is separated from you right after birth (usually because they need to go to the NICU)، you should start pumping as soon as possible، usually an hour or so within their birth، Peluso advises. The same goes for a baby who is having trouble latching—in this case، you should pump as soon as possible to build up a good supply، and make sure you connect with a lactation professional right away to get assistance، Peluso suggests.

If you’ve been exclusively breastfeeding and are returning to work or school eventually، you can wait about 2-3 weeks before this happens to start pumping. “Try pumping in the early morning about an hour after you have fed your baby at the breast،” Peluso advises. “For most parents، that early morning session is often the most milk you will pump in a 24-hour period.”2

And what about someone who only needs to pump occasionally? No need to overthink this one، says Peluso. “Pump any time you are away from your baby and you miss a feeding، or anytime your baby is getting a bottle،” she advises.

Breast Milk Pumping Frequency

In addition to the question of when to start pumping، many parents wonder how frequently they’ll need to pump for their little ones. This also depends somewhat on the circumstances of why you are pumping، says Jenelle Ferry، M.D.، neonatologist and director of feeding، nutrition، and infant development at Pediatrix Medical Group in Tampa، Florida.

“If you are pumping exclusively، you should essentially be pumping as frequently as your infant eats،” Dr. Ferry says. “This means every two to three hours in the newborn period، and after the first month every three to four hours.” You’ll also need to pump as long as your baby requires nighttime feeds، which will usually be through the first four to six months، she adds.2