When you start pumping, it sometimes seems like everyone knows exactly how it works. But in practice, many mothers encounter the same questions and challenges. Why does pumping hurt? Why is less milk coming out than expected? And how do you even know if you're doing it right?
As a mother and through my involvement with Youha, I regularly speak with women who become insecure when pumping doesn't go as smoothly as they had hoped. That is very understandable. Pumping is something you have to learn, just like breastfeeding. Fortunately, many challenges can be solved with the right knowledge and small adjustments.
In this blog, I discuss common pumping mistakes and provide practical tips for more comfortable and effective pumping.
Mistake 1: Thinking that more suction always works better
One of the most common misconceptions is that higher suction automatically leads to more milk. In reality, this often has the opposite effect.
If the suction is set too high, it can cause discomfort or even pain. If your body experiences tension, it can affect the let-down reflex, which can sometimes lead to less effective milk flow.
According to lactation consultants, it is important to choose a suction strength that is powerful enough to pump effectively, but at the same time remains comfortable.
My advice is therefore always: start slowly and only increase the setting if it feels comfortable. Pain should not be a standard part of pumping.
Mistake 2: Using the wrong size breast shield
Many mothers do not realize that the size of the breast shield has a big impact on comfort and output.
Often, the standard size provided is automatically assumed, while every woman has a different anatomy. A breast shield that is too small or too large can cause irritation, pain, or less effective milk release.
I notice that many mothers are surprised when they discover how much difference the right size can make. If you are unsure about the fit, it is wise to measure your nipple size and check if the breast shield fits well.
A comfortable fit not only contributes to a pleasant pumping session but can also help to empty the breast more effectively.
Mistake 3: Expecting a pump to work the same as a baby
This is perhaps one of the biggest causes of insecurity. Many mothers compare the amount of milk they pump with the amount of milk their baby drinks. When less milk appears in the bottle than expected, the thought quickly arises that something is wrong.
But a pump and a baby are not the same. A baby stimulates the breast in a natural way through scent, skin contact, and suckling behavior. A breast pump tries to imitate this process as well as possible, but it remains a tool.
Therefore, a lower pumping output does not automatically mean that you are producing insufficient milk. This nuance is sometimes forgotten, while this insight can actually alleviate a lot of insecurity.
Mistake 4: Focusing too much on the amount of milk
In line with that, I see that many mothers focus heavily on the numbers. On social media, you regularly see photos of full freezer drawers and large milk stashes. While that may seem impressive, it doesn't tell the whole story.
Every mother has a different milk production. Some women produce more than their baby needs, while others make exactly enough milk.
Both situations can be completely normal. Constantly checking how much is already in the cup while pumping can even cause extra tension. And relaxation plays an important role in a good let-down reflex.
Therefore, try not to just look at milliliters, but also at how you feel and how your baby is growing and developing.
Mistake 5: Irregular pumping
Breastfeeding works on the principle of supply and demand. If you don't feed or pump for a long time, your body receives fewer signals that milk is needed. Especially in the first few weeks after childbirth, regularity can therefore be important.
That doesn't mean you have to strictly adhere to a rigid schedule. Life with a baby rarely goes exactly according to plan, after all.
However, it often helps to find a rhythm that suits your situation. Consistency is usually more important than perfection.
Mistake 6: Using breast pump parts for too long
This is a mistake many mothers don't immediately think of. Parts such as membranes, valves and other wear-sensitive components lose their optimal function over time. This can reduce suction power, making it seem as if milk production is changing while the problem is actually with the pump.
Therefore, regularly check whether parts are still in good condition and replace them when necessary. A well-maintained pump often works more pleasantly and efficiently.
Mistake 7: Thinking that pain is part of it
Perhaps this is the most important mistake of all. I still regularly hear from mothers that they think pain during pumping is normal. Of course, it can take some getting used to at first, but persistent pain is usually a sign that something needs attention.
Possible causes include:
- an incorrect breast shield size;
- too high suction power;
- incorrect placement of the pump;
- damaged or worn parts.
When pumping hurts, it is wise to investigate where it comes from. Don't unnecessarily walk around with it.
Small adjustments often make a big difference
What strikes me in conversations with mothers is that many problems related to pumping can often be traced back to a few relatively small factors.
A better fit. More comfort. Less pressure. A more pleasant rhythm. Or simply more confidence in your own body. Pumping doesn't have to be perfect to be successful.
In fact, when you give yourself space and choose a way of pumping that fits your life, you often notice that it becomes easier to sustain.
That's why I think it's important for mothers to have access to reliable information, honest experiences, and tools that support comfort. Ultimately, pumping is not about achieving certain numbers, but about supporting your breastfeeding goals in a way that works for you.
Finally
Every mother makes mistakes when she starts pumping. That's part of it.
The most important thing is not that everything goes perfectly right away, but that you learn what works for your body, your baby, and your situation.
By paying attention to comfort, regularity, the right fit, and realistic expectations, you can prevent or solve many common problems.
And above all, remember: when something doesn't go as you had hoped, it doesn't mean you're failing. Often, the solution is closer than you think.
About the author
Elles is a mother and closely involved in the development of products within Youha. From her own experiences and conversations with mothers, she sees daily what questions and uncertainties exist around pumping and breastfeeding.
"What I always want to tell mothers is that pumping is something you have to learn. Many women expect it to come naturally, but that is not always the case. So don't be too hard on yourself. Often, small adjustments make a much bigger difference than you think."
Love,
Elles Jannink-Baak
Youha product expert
