Sequential and simultaneous breast pumping: a comparison

Abstract

This study compared sequential single-breast pumping with simultaneous double-breast pumping using an interrupted time series design to determine if (a) milk volume differed by pumping regimen; (b) the time needed to pump the breasts differed by pumping regimen; and (c) the milk fat concentrations differed by pumping regimen. In both limited and unlimited pumping sessions, the simultaneous double pumping option obtained higher mean milk volumes, reaching statistical significance in three of the four comparisons. Differences in milk fat concentrations were not statistically significant, when simultaneous breast pumping occurred, as compared with sequential pumping. Mothers' preferences regarding pumping regimen influenced mean milk volumes obtained in the direction of the women's preferences.