Signs You Might Be Pumping Too Much

1. Increased Fussiness in Baby:
One of the most telling signs that you’re pumping too much is if your baby becomes unusually fussy. When you’re trying to build a milk stash, your body produces milk for both the baby and numerous pumping sessions. This can result in too much milk flow for your baby to handle effectively, making them irritable and unsettled.

2. Correlation with Pumping:
In my practice, I’ve observed a high correlation between the amount of pumping and a baby’s irritability. Your body is designed to produce just the right amount of milk for your baby’s needs, but when you introduce too many pumping sessions, the balance gets disrupted.

3. Difficulty with Milk Flow:
When you notice your baby coughing and sputtering at the breast, becoming stiff during nursing sessions, or being fussier than usual, it’s a sign they are overwhelmed by the milk flow. This happens because the increased pumping has stimulated your body to produce more milk, creating a forceful letdown that your baby struggles to manage.

Adjusting Your Pumping Schedule

Evaluate the Frequency:
To address this, take a step back and look at how many pumping sessions you’re doing within a 24-hour period. Consider reducing the number of sessions by half. This helps moderate the milk flow and allows your baby to adapt to a more manageable breastfeeding routine.

Give it Time:
After adjusting your pumping schedule, it might take about three days to see any noticeable improvement in your baby’s behavior and feeding efficiency. Patience is key here; it’s important to give your body and your baby time to adjust to the new routine.

Additional Tips

Gas and Air Intake:
Excessive pumping can also lead to your baby swallowing too much air during feeding, causing gas and discomfort. By reducing the frequency of your pumping sessions, you can help alleviate this issue, allowing for a calmer and more content baby.

Seek Professional Guidance:
If you’re unsure how to adjust your pumping schedule or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to seek help. You can put your questions in the comments or schedule a virtual assessment. Professional guidance can provide you with specific strategies tailored to your needs, ensuring both you and your baby are comfortable and happy.

In conclusion, balancing breastfeeding and pumping takes some trial and error. By being mindful of the signs of mechanical oversupply and making necessary adjustments, you can ensure a smoother experience for both you and your baby. Remember, you don’t necessarily have to stop pumping—just find a balance that works best for your family.