Why Stronger Suction On A Breast Pump Doesn’t Mean More Milk

Why Stronger Suction on a Breast Pump Doesn’t Mean More Milk

If you’re new to pumping, it’s easy to assume that turning up the suction on your breast pump will help you get more milk out. After all, stronger suction should mean better milk removal, right? Unfortunately, that’s not quite how it works. In fact, cranking up the suction too high can sometimes do the opposite—reduce your milk output and make pumping more uncomfortable.

Here’s why more suction doesn’t necessarily mean more milk and what actually helps with efficient milk removal.

1. Breastfeeding Is About Stimulation, Not Just Suction

A breast pump is designed to mimic the way a baby nurses. When babies breastfeed, they don’t just use brute force to extract milk—they use a combination of gentle suction and rhythmic sucking patterns that stimulate milk flow.

Most pumps have two phases:

• Stimulation Phase: Rapid, light suction to encourage letdown.

• Expression Phase: Slower, deeper suction to remove milk.

If the suction is too high, it can cause discomfort or even restrict milk flow because the breast tissue is compressed too tightly. This can interfere with milk ejection rather than enhancing it.

2. High Suction Can Lead to Pain and Nipple Trauma

If your pump suction is too strong, it can cause nipple pain, redness, or even damage over time. Pain signals stress to your body, which can trigger a release of adrenaline—this hormone actually inhibits your letdown reflex, making it harder to pump milk effectively.

Your body needs to feel safe and comfortable for optimal milk flow, which is why a lower, more natural suction level is often more effective.

3. Milk Supply Depends on Demand, Not Just Suction Strength

Milk production is a supply-and-demand process. The more frequently and effectively milk is removed, the more your body is signaled to produce milk. However, suction strength alone doesn’t determine how much milk you remove—proper fit, comfort, and stimulation matter more.

Using the correct flange size, ensuring a good seal, and setting your pump to a comfortable level all play a role in efficient milk removal. If your settings are too strong and cause discomfort, you might find yourself pumping less often or for shorter durations, which can negatively affect your supply over time.

4. Finding the Right Suction Level for You

Every mom’s comfort level and milk flow pattern are different. Instead of turning the suction up as high as possible, try this approach:

• Start with a lower suction level and gradually increase it until you find the highest comfortable setting.

• If you feel pain or notice your nipple turning white (a sign of restricted blood flow), lower the suction.

• Pay attention to how your breasts feel—fullness should gradually decrease as milk is removed.

Some moms find that medium suction with a good pumping rhythm is far more effective than high suction that causes discomfort.

The Bottom Line

More suction doesn’t mean more milk. In fact, using too much suction can lead to discomfort, reduced letdowns, and even lower milk output over time. Instead of focusing on power, aim for comfort and efficiency—a well-fitting flange, the right pump settings, and a relaxed environment will do far more to maximize your milk output than simply turning up the dial.

So if you’ve been struggling with your pump, consider adjusting your suction down, not up—you might be surprised at the results!

Do you have a go-to pump setting that works best for you? Share your experience in the comments! 💕