10 Red Flags That Pumping Isn’t Working (And How to Fix It)

If you’re reading this, you’re probably pumping in some way—whether exclusively or alongside breastfeeding. But is it working as well as it should be? In this post, we’ll walk through 10 red flags that may indicate your pumping routine isn’t going as smoothly as it could be.

If you find that several of these red flags are true for you, and you want some personalized help, I offer a long-term coaching program specifically designed for career-driven moms balancing breastfeeding and pumping while working.

Let’s dive into the top red flags that pumping isn’t working, and how to address them!

(This post was originally a video. Check it out, here!)

1. Really Long Pumping Times

A typical pumping session should last 15 to 30 minutes on average. If you’re consistently taking longer than 30 minutes to get a full session in, this is a major red flag. Pumping shouldn’t take 40, 50, or even 60 minutes. While some moms can pump efficiently in 15 minutes, that’s not always the case. If it’s taking you longer than 30 minutes, it may be a sign that something’s wrong with your setup, technique, or pump.

2. Pumping Excessively

If you’re pumping more than 10 times per day, it’s a sign that something is off. While the typical range for pumping is around 7 to 9 times per day, exceeding 10 pumps could indicate inefficiency. Babies feed more often because they take smaller, more frequent meals at the breast, but with pumping, excessive sessions without sufficient output signal that something needs to be addressed.

3. Inadequate Output to Fill Bottles

If you’re not producing enough milk during pumping sessions to meet your baby’s needs when you’re away, it could indicate an issue with your pumping efficiency. It’s important to distinguish between low milk supply and low milk output. Sometimes, your supply is fine, but the pump isn’t effectively emptying your breasts. Make sure your baby isn’t being overfed from the bottle, and consider troubleshooting the pump settings or getting professional help.

4. Sudden Decrease in Output

A sudden, drastic drop in milk output, such as going from pumping 25 ounces one day to 12 ounces the next, is a red flag. While small dips in output are normal due to factors like your menstrual cycle, illness, or stress, a major decline suggests something is wrong. Often, the pump or its setup is the culprit, so check for malfunctions, flange issues, or suction problems.

5. Slow Decrease in Output Over Time

A gradual decline in milk output is another red flag. This often happens after 3 months postpartum, when your body’s milk production shifts from being hormone-driven to supply-and-demand-based. Unfortunately, this coincides with many moms returning to work, leading to a “perfect storm” of decreased output. If you notice your supply slowly dwindling, it could be a sign that your pumping routine isn’t working efficiently.

6. Pain or Discomfort While Pumping

Pumping should not be painful. If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain, something is wrong. This might be due to improper flange sizing, incorrect suction settings, or even an underlying condition like a yeast infection. Pain is a clear red flag that something is not right, and addressing it should be a priority.

7. Engorgement, Clogged Ducts, or Mastitis

If you’re frequently dealing with engorgement, clogged ducts, or mastitis, this is a sign that your pump isn’t efficiently emptying your breasts. Milk stasis (when milk sits in your breasts without being removed) can lead to these issues, and left untreated, they can develop into mastitis, which is a serious infection. Efficient and frequent milk removal is key.

8. Feeling Anxious or Frustrated Around Pumping

Pumping can be a chore, but it shouldn’t cause constant anxiety or frustration. If you dread pumping sessions, feel confused about your output, or constantly second-guess yourself, that’s a red flag. This could stem from unrealistic expectations (thanks, social media!) or a lack of understanding about your body and how pumping works. Gaining more knowledge and confidence in your pumping process can help ease these feelings.

9. Milk Supply Is Not Where You Want It to Be

Whether you’re dealing with an oversupply, undersupply, or trying to adjust your milk supply to your needs, if you feel like you don’t have control over your supply, it could be a sign of an issue with your pumping process. The breast pump is a tool, and if it’s not helping you meet your goals, something may need to change.

10. Pumping Has Taken Over Your Life

Pumping should not consume your entire day. If it feels like your life revolves around pumping, this is a huge red flag. It’s easy to obsess over milk output, especially when every ounce seems important, but it’s crucial to remember that your mental health matters too. Pumping should fit into your life, not take it over. If you’re approaching burnout from pumping, it’s time to reevaluate.

Burnout

Even if everything is technically working well, if you’re feeling mentally and physically exhausted, then pumping isn’t truly working. No one gets a gold star for pushing themselves to the brink of collapse. If pumping is affecting your mental health, it’s time to get help or reconsider your routine.

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What Should You Do If These Red Flags Apply to You?

If you’re dealing with any of these red flags, the first step is to get help. It can be hard to identify and address these issues on your own, and it’s important to reach out for professional guidance if needed. I offer a long-term coaching program specifically designed to help career-driven moms navigate pumping while maintaining a healthy balance with work and life.

Remember, you matter just as much as your milk supply, and there are solutions to make pumping easier and more sustainable for you.