How can I slow down my milk supply when pumping?

Understanding Milk Supply Regulation
For breastfeeding mothers who find themselves pumping more milk than they desire, the need to slow down milk supply can arise for various reasons, such as returning to work, managing an oversupply, or simply wanting to align production with the baby’s needs. The body’s milk production is largely governed by supply and demand; thus, adjusting pumping habits can effectively signal the body to decrease milk production.
Gradual Reduction of Pumping Sessions
One of the most effective strategies to reduce milk supply is to gradually decrease the frequency of pumping sessions. Instead of abruptly stopping or significantly cutting back, which can lead to discomfort or engorgement, mothers should aim to reduce pumping sessions slowly. For instance, if you currently pump four times a day, consider reducing it to three sessions for a week before cutting down further. This gradual approach allows the body to adjust and signals it to produce less milk over time.
Adjusting Pumping Duration and Intensity
In addition to reducing the number of sessions, shortening the duration of each pumping session can also help. If you typically pump for 20 minutes, try reducing it to 15 minutes. This decrease in stimulation can further signal your body to lower its milk production. Additionally, consider using a lower suction setting on your pump. This less intense stimulation can help decrease the amount of milk expressed, reinforcing the message to your body that less milk is needed.
Timing and Consistency
Another important factor is the timing of your pumping sessions. If you pump at regular intervals, consider extending the time between sessions. For example, if you usually pump every three hours, try extending it to four or five hours. This change can help your body adjust to a new rhythm and reduce overall milk production.
Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments
Mothers can also explore lifestyle changes that may influence milk supply. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet is essential, but some mothers find that reducing their intake of certain foods, such as oats or other galactagogues, can help decrease milk supply. Additionally, avoiding excessive stimulation of the breasts, such as through frequent hand expression or breast massage, can also contribute to a reduction in milk production.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If you find it challenging to manage your milk supply on your own, consulting with a lactation consultant can provide personalized strategies tailored to your specific situation. They can offer insights into your pumping routine and help you navigate the transition smoothly, ensuring that both you and your baby are comfortable throughout the process.
Conclusion
Slowing down milk supply when pumping is a manageable process that involves careful adjustments to your pumping routine, duration, and lifestyle. By gradually reducing the frequency and intensity of pumping, mothers can effectively communicate their needs to their bodies, leading to a more balanced milk supply that aligns with their and their baby’s requirements.

What causes excessive pumping?

Breastmilk oversupply happens for different reasons. Sometimes, there’s no specific cause — your body may simply produce large amounts of milk, especially at first. This usually gets better if you only nurse or pump to meet your infant’s needs. Pumping more than your infant needs can cause breast milk oversupply.

How can I produce less milk when pumping?

For example, if you are pumping every 3 hours, stretch the time between pumps on the first day to every 4 hours (or longer if not full). Reduce the number of times you pump by at least one every 2-3 days as tolerated – this will decrease milk production gradually.

How to slow down milk supply when pumping?

Increase time in between pumping sessions.
Slowly add more time in between each pumping session. Try to delay pumping sessions for as long as you are comfortable. However, you should not try to wait until you’re experiencing breast pain or extreme fullness. This can lead to clogged ducts or mastitis.

How can I reduce pumping without mastitis?

If you have been breastfeeding and decide to wean, it is better to do it over several days or weeks rather than suddenly. It is the safest method as it allows your baby and your breasts to adjust. It reduces the risk of engorgement, blocked ducts and mastitis. Drop one feed every few days.

What counts as oversupply?

An oversupply of breast milk generally refers to a mother who is able to nurse her infant, or multiples, and is still able to produce a significant amount of breast milk (more than 4-5 oz) in a pump session after a feeding.

How do I get my milk to let down when pumping?

Things to try to improve let down for pump: hot shower before (I know, not helpful at work), breast massage and hand expression before pumping, using a comb or brush to comb the breasts to help release endorphins and get milk flowing, leaning over and giving the breasts a little shake.

How to slow down breast milk production?

‘Block feeding’ is a method that can help reduce your milk supply in just a few days.

1. Feed your baby from only one breast at each feed.
2. Space feeds out — at least 2 ½ hours apart.
3. At your next feed, change to your other breast.
4. Continue this pattern for a few days.

Does leaking breasts mean good milk supply?

You can leak breastmilk for a variety of reasons including having a full supply, or if your body is not yet sure how much to produce, if your mature milk is starting to come in, if you’ve missed a feeding, or even if you are just thinking about your baby.

How many letdowns per feed?

There are usually 2-4 letdowns per nursing session, but you may not realize it unless you pay close attention to baby’s suckling pattern.

How can I reduce my milk supply exclusively pumping?

“In most cases the baby ‘talks’ to the breasts by nursing as much as needed, and tells the breasts how much milk to make,” Wall said. “Pumping increases milk production if a mother is pumping in addition to nursing her baby. But if she is pumping and then skipping breast feedings, pumping may decrease milk supply.”