25/08/2026
Using an electric breast pump shouldn’t hurt — and the right set-up can make a big difference.
If you’re expressing regularly and experiencing pain, ni**le damage, poor milk removal, difficulty triggering a let-down, or you simply feel like your pump isn’t working well for you, an IBCLC can help.
Pumping isn’t always as simple as putting the pump on and pressing start. There are several things I assess when supporting a mum who is expressing:
• Flange/shield sizing — the fl**ge supplied with your pump may not be the right size for you. And importantly, each breast may need a different size.
• Ni**le movement while pumping — assessing how the ni**le and surrounding breast tissue are being drawn into the tunnel can help identify an inappropriate fit.
• Comfort — pumping should not cause ongoing pain, rubbing, blanching, swelling or ni**le trauma.
• Vacuum and cycle settings — stronger suction does not necessarily mean more milk. Finding settings that are both comfortable and effective is important.
• Milk removal — we can look at how effectively your breasts are being drained and whether changes to your pumping technique may help.
• Your pumping schedule — particularly if you are exclusively expressing, establishing supply, returning to work, combination feeding or trying to increase milk production.
• Hands-on pumping & breast compressions — simple techniques can sometimes improve milk removal and shorten pumping sessions.
• The pump itself — not every pump suits every situation. An IBCLC can help you work out whether your current pump is appropriate for how frequently and why you are expressing.
And remember — more suction, longer pumping and a tighter fl**ge are not necessarily better.
A good pumping assessment should look at the whole picture: your breasts, your ni**les, your milk supply, your baby, your pump and your individual feeding goals.
If expressing isn’t going as smoothly as you hoped, seek support early. Sometimes a few small adjustments can make pumping significantly more comfortable and effective.
Sarah
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