Are You Pump Trapped? How Comfort Pumping Can Backfire

If you’ve ever finished breastfeeding, still felt full, and thought, “I’ll just pump a little to feel comfortable,” only to find yourself stuck in an endless cycle of pumping—welcome to the pump trap.

It’s easy to fall into, and it happens because milk production works on demand and supply (not the other way around). The more you remove, the more your body makes. Most babies only take 65-80% of what’s in the breast until supply regulates around 3-4 months. So breasts are supposed to still have milk and feel a little full for cluster feeding and growth spurts.

How It Happens

1. Baby nurses but your breasts still feel full.

2. You pump “just a little” to relieve discomfort

3. Your body sees that extra milk removal as a signal to make even more.

4. Next time, you feel just as full (or fuller), so you pump again.

5. The cycle continues, and suddenly, you’re stuck in an oversupply loop.

Breaking Free From the Pump Trap

• Resist the urge to fully empty your breasts after feeds. Your body will adjust if you let it.

• Hand express just enough for comfort instead of pumping. This sends a weaker signal for more milk.

• Gradually reduce pumping sessions if you’ve already been stuck in the cycle. Skipping suddenly can lead to clogged ducts or mastitis.

• Trust your baby to regulate your supply. If they are nursing effectively, they will take what they need, and your body will match their demand.

Some parents need to pump for various reasons, and that’s okay. But if you’re feeling trapped in an endless pump cycle, know that your body can find balance again. Less pumping now may mean fewer issues later.

Have you been caught in the pump trap? What helped you break free?