Attachment Parenting :: Articles :: What should I know about pumping before using a breast pump?

Many mothers find that when they try to pump their breastmilk, they aren't able to get as much as they think they should be able, or need to.

Some consider this to be an indicator of how much milk they have generally (which it isn't), and worry that their baby isn't getting enough milk (which they shouldn't).

The amount of milk one can pump is no indicator of how much milk is being produced, or how much milk a baby is getting. Babies are much more efficient at getting milk from the breast, and if your baby is having plenty of wet and dirty diapers, and is gaining weight, your baby is getting enough milk.

If you're not sure, please read the article on are you producing enough milk? before you proceed.

All that said, there are things you can do to help increase the amount of milk you are able to pump.

Below are articles and links containing helpful information about this topic.

Additional Resources:

• Laura deLeon's Excellent Pumping Page
• Pumping Mom's Information Exchange