“Turn it up to maximum for more milk!” - This common misconception about breast pump suction levels can lead to unnecessary discomfort and potentially reduced milk output. Each mother’s preference and comfort level vary, so learning how to adjust suction appropriately can enhance the experience. Let’s explore how to find the right suction level that works best for you and your body.
1. Understanding Suction Levels: Comfort is Key
Contrary to popular belief, although pumping suction strength directly affects comfort, milk flow, and overall efficiency, stronger isn’t always better. Research shows that the most effective pumping happens at the highest comfortable suction level - not the highest possible level.
2. How to Adjust Suction Levels
Most pumps have adjustable suction settings. Maximum comfort vacuum is the highest comfortable suction level that a person can use while still feeling comfortable. It’s important to find the right level, because pumping at too high a suction can cause discomfort, and irritate breast tissue while too low can also cause ineffective milk removal and block milk ducts, etc.
- Start Low: Start on the lowest vacuum setting, but slowly increase until you find a level that is comfortable and effective for milk flow.
- Use Stimulation Mode First: Most pumps have a “stimulation” mode that mimics a baby’s natural suckling rhythm. Starting here can help stimulate let-down.
- Gradually Increase: After a minute or two, when you see your milk starting to flow, increase suction gradually to find a comfortable maximum level. Increase suction one level at a time. Stop when you feel mild tugging or discomfort but no pain. Turn the vacuum down one level. Avoid the highest settings if they cause pain.
- Listen to Your Body: If any suction level causes pain, reduce it immediately. ## 3. Practical Tips for Effective Suction
- Comfort Check: Discomfort or pain can indicate that the suction is too high or that the flange (breast shield) is not the right size.
- Your optimal level may change from day to day and even from one feeding session to another. Higher suction doesn’t equal more milk
- Hands-Free Pumping Bra: Using a hands-free bra can help with comfort and stability, particularly when adjusting suction levels.
- Warm compression can help milk flow at lower suction levels
- Regular pump maintenance ensures consistent suction
| Vacuum Level | Signs |
| Too Low | - Milk flow is slow or minimal |
| - Sessions are prolonged with little output | |
| - Breasts feel full or uncomfortable after pumping | |
| Optimal Level | - Comfortable suction with steady milk flow |
| - Efficient milk removal within 15-20 minutes | |
| - Breasts feel soft and less full after pumping | |
| Too High | - Pain or pinching sensation in the nipples |
| - Redness or soreness after pumping | |
| - Frequent milk sprays at start, then sudden decrease in flow |
4 . A second reminder for low or default suction level
While using a very high suction level can be uncomfortable or even harmful, sticking with the default setting after turning on the pump may not provide the best results either. The default suction is often just a starting point and may not be ideal for effective milk removal. Adjusting the suction to a level that feels comfortable and allows for a steady milk flow is key. Begin with low suction, then gradually increase as needed to find the optimal level for both comfort and efficiency. #### Conclusion
Finding the right suction level on a breast pump takes a little experimentation. Starting low and adjusting gradually can help you discover the optimal setting for comfort and efficiency. Remember, your comfort is essential for effective pumping, so always listen to your body.
Reference
- Kent JC, Mitoulas LR, Cregan MD, Geddes DT, Larsson M, Doherty DA, Hartmann PE. Importance of vacuum for breastmilk expression. Breastfeed Med. 2008 Mar;3(1):11-9.
- Eglash A, Malloy ML. Breastmilk Expression and Breast Pump Technology. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2015 Dec;58(4):855-67.
- Meier PP, Patel AL, Hoban R, Engstrom JL. Which breast pump for which mother: an evidence-based approach to individualizing breast pump technology. J Perinatol. 2016 Jul;36(7):493-9.
