As a new mum, pumping is often described as a practical part of feeding a baby, but many mothers know it can feel like much more than that.
There is the planning, the schedules, the worry about milk supply, and the constant mental reminders of when the next pumping session should happen. Even when mums are not pumping, many are still thinking about pumping.
In a recent episode of AskMeDoctor! by Motherhood.com.my, we spoke to Dr JoAnn Rajah, Paediatrician from Firststep Child Specialist Clinic, about why pumping can sometimes feel overwhelming and how mothers can find a routine that feels more manageable and sustainable.
Q: Why does pumping feel so mentally exhausting?
Dr JoAnn Rajah: Many mothers focus on the physical aspect of pumping, but there is often a significant emotional and mental load involved as well.
During the early weeks after birth, mothers are still recovering physically while adjusting to life with a newborn. They are learning feeding patterns, managing sleep deprivation and adapting to a completely new routine.
Adding pumping into that already demanding period can make some mothers feel as though there is very little room left for rest.
The mental load often comes from the constant awareness that pumping requires. Mothers may find themselves thinking about schedules, milk supply and upcoming sessions throughout the day, which can make the experience feel overwhelming.
Q: Can stress affect pumping?
Dr JoAnn Rajah: Yes. Milk flow depends on the let-down reflex, which is influenced by how relaxed the body feels.
When mothers are stressed, rushing between tasks or feeling pressured to produce a certain amount of milk, the body may not respond as effectively. This can make pumping sessions feel less productive or take longer than expected.
Unfortunately, this can sometimes become a cycle. When pumping feels difficult, stress levels increase, which may make future sessions feel even more challenging.
Creating a more comfortable environment and reducing unnecessary pressure can help support a more positive pumping experience.
Q: Do Mothers Need to Follow a Perfect Pumping Schedule?
Dr JoAnn Rajah: Consistency is important, especially in the beginning.
Regular milk expression can help support milk supply and allow the body to establish a routine. However, real life rarely follows a perfect schedule.
Working mothers may have meetings. Some mothers may be caring for older children. Others may simply have days that do not go according to plan.
Rather than aiming for perfection, mothers should focus on creating a pumping routine that is realistic and sustainable for their own lifestyle.
Every family is different, and every mother’s routine will look slightly different too.
Q: What Can Make Pumping More Efficient?
Dr JoAnn Rajah: One helpful strategy is double pumping, which allows milk to be expressed from both breasts at the same time.
This can significantly reduce the amount of time spent pumping while helping mothers maintain consistency throughout the day.
Beyond technique, comfort also plays an important role.
When pumping feels easier, quieter and more comfortable, mothers may find it easier to stay consistent over time. Small improvements in convenience can make a meaningful difference to the overall experience.
Q: What Helps Mothers Stay Consistent in the Long Run?
Dr JoAnn Rajah: Comfort and flexibility are often key.
When pumping feels less restrictive and easier to fit into daily life, mothers are generally more likely to maintain their routine over time.
The goal is not to create a routine that feels difficult to sustain.
Instead, mothers should focus on finding an approach that works for their lifestyle and allows them to continue feeding their baby in a way that feels manageable and realistic.
How Philips Avent Supports a More Flexible Pumping Experience
For mothers who want more flexibility, the Philips Avent Hands-Free Double Breast Pump helps make pumping feel easier to manage throughout the day.
Its double pumping feature allows mums to express milk from both breasts at the same time, helping them pump up to 2x faster. The pump also follows a baby’s natural feeding rhythm, with up to 85 cycles per minute for a more natural pumping experience.
For added comfort, the SkinSense silicone shield gently moulds to the breast using natural body warmth, helping to create a secure and comfortable fit during each session.
Designed with busy mums in mind, the pump offers quiet operation, a comfortable fit and a hands-free design that makes it easier to fit pumping into everyday routines.
So, mummies, if you are looking for more support with expressing, bottle-feeding and caring for your little one, explore Philips Avent’s range of mother and baby care solutions.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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