How can I pump my milk if my baby feeds every three hours?

Postnatal, Your questions

My 3-week-old baby feeds well every three hours, and I would like to store my milk so that my partner can give a bottle from time to time. How do I pump my milk if the baby drinks every three hours and he literally empties me each time? He’s a big drinker! Thanks in advance for your help! Marie-Hélène


Marie-Hélène, I understand why you are asking! Since your mammary gland produces on demand, you have to increase your demand so you can pump milk to store it, even if your baby feeds regularly. To do so, you can pump your two breasts three times a day for 5-6 minutes, 90 minutes after feeding the baby. Don’t worry if you don’t get a lot of milk at the start, as it might take a couple of days before your production increases to meet both your needs and your baby’s. It should increase gradually.

 

Si tu as un tire‑lait électrique double,

If you have a double electric breast pump, it will increase your production even more due to the fact you pump both breasts at the same time. Try it at the start, and if your production doesn’t increase after 3-4 days, you may not have the right pump for your needs. If it works, great! Good luck!

Marie

The Baby Expert 

Discover our videos

Subscribe to a monthly or quarterly package now to access full videos.

Childbirth in a Hospital with an Epidural

Childbirth in a Hospital with an Epidural

Marie accompanies Karine and Jocelyn to the hospital for the birth of their second baby. During this birth, the doctor
Prematurity

Prematurity

In this video, I am accompanied by Dr. Véronique G. Dorval, a neonatologist and director of the Neonatal Clinic at
Domestic Animals and Pregnancy

Domestic Animals and Pregnancy

Isabelle Dion, a veterinarian, explains how to prepare your cat and dog for the arrival of your baby. You can
Childbirth in a Birthing Center

Childbirth in a Birthing Center

Marie attends the birth of Amy and Greg’s 4th child. The couple chose to give birth in a birthing home.