Vacuum strength is a crucial factor to consider when pumping breast milk, but it is important to understand that more suction does not necessarily mean more milk. Many new moms mistakenly believe that increasing the vacuum strength will result in a higher milk yield. However, this is not always the case and can actually have the opposite effect.
Pumping at a higher vacuum strength than necessary can be painful and uncomfortable. This discomfort can hinder the letdown reflex, which is the release of milk from the breast. When experiencing pain, the body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline, which can inhibit the letdown reflex and reduce milk flow. So, if you set the suction level too high and it becomes painful, it may actually decrease the amount of milk you are able to pump.
It is important to find the right balance when setting the vacuum strength on your breast pump. Every woman’s comfort level will vary, so what works for one person may not work for another. You should aim for a vacuum strength that is comfortable for you, where you can feel a gentle tug but not experience any pain or discomfort.
When starting a pumping session, it is recommended to begin with a lower vacuum strength and gradually increase it until you find the highest level that is comfortable for you. This way, you can ensure maximum milk extraction without causing unnecessary pain or discomfort. It may take some trial and error to find the ideal vacuum strength that works best for you.
Additionally, it is worth noting that pumping is not always an accurate indicator of milk supply. Some women may respond better to hand expression or different pump settings, such as massage mode or letdown mode. It is important to experiment with different techniques and settings to find what works best for you.
More suction does not necessarily mean more milk. Pumping at a higher vacuum strength than necessary can actually be counterproductive, as it can cause pain and inhibit letdowns. Finding the right balance with the vacuum strength, where you are comfortable and can achieve a gentle tug without pain, is key to maximizing milk yield. Remember that every woman is different, so it may take some experimentation to find the ideal vacuum strength that works best for you.