Pumping Plan for First Month in NICU – How Much Breastmilk Do I Need?
Having a baby in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) is an experience that most parents don’t expect and it can feel overwhelming, isolating, and emotionally draining. Amid all the medical updates, monitors, and routines, one question often looms large for new NICU moms: How much breastmilk should I be pumping?
Whether your baby was born prematurely or needs special care, providing breastmilk is one of the most powerful ways to support their health and development. But how do you start? How much do you need? And how do you keep your supply going when you're not yet nursing at the breast?
Let’s break it down into a manageable plan for your first month in the NICU.
Understanding NICU Milk Needs: Why Pumping Matters
NICU babies, especially preemies, often can’t nurse directly at first. That means your breastmilk is delivered through bottles, cups, syringes, or feeding tubes, and your body needs to learn how to produce milk without the usual baby-to-breast cues. That’s where pumping comes in—and why having a clear plan is essential.
Breastmilk provides critical antibodies, nutrients, and digestive support that can help your baby thrive in the NICU. Establishing a strong milk supply early sets you and your baby up for long-term success.
First Month Pumping Goals
Here’s a general timeline and goals for the first few weeks:
Days 1–3: “Colostrum Phase”
Goal: Hand express or pump every 2–3 hours (8–10 times per day).
Expect small drops (teaspoons, not ounces)—this is normal!
Use hand expression along with a hospital-grade pump if possible.
Days 4–7: “Transitional Milk”
Milk volume begins to increase (often called your “milk coming in”).
Continue pumping at least 8 times a day, including overnight.
Aim for 500–600 mL/day (16–20 oz/day) by the end of the week.
Weeks 2–4: “Building Supply”
Maintain frequent pumping: every 2.5–3 hours around the clock.
Your goal by day 14: 750–900 mL/day (25–30 oz/day).
Track your output and note any changes.
Consistency is key. Pumping often signals your body to produce more, and your supply should stabilize around the 6 week mark.
Tips for Staying on Track in the NICU
Use a pumping log or schedule (keep reading for a downloadable version).
Double pump with a hands-free bra to save time and increase output.
Pump near your baby when possible—seeing or touching them can help stimulate let-down.
Use a breastmilk thermos for easy milk storage while away from the hospital—most NICUs provide storage containers and labeling protocols.
Get support! Support from a virtual doula can help you stay on track so you reach your goals.
Emotional Support Is Just as Important
The NICU journey can feel lonely, but you’re not alone. Connecting with others who understand your experience can provide incredible emotional relief.
I highly recommend checking out the free, professional-led groups from Perinatal Support Washington. They offer drop-in virtual options for flexibility. These spaces are warm, welcoming, and full of parents who get it.
Additionally, a birth processing session with a trained and compassionate doula (like me!) may be extremely supportive for moms during this vulnerable time.
Download Your Digital Pumping Schedule
Want a simple way to track your sessions and stay motivated? We’ve created a Digital Pumping Schedule specifically designed for NICU moms. It includes:
Hour-by-hour suggested pumping times
Recommendations on pumping gadgets and gear
Tips to get more output from pumping sessions
Resources to find inspiration and encouragement for NICU parents
Printable and phone-friendly formats
👉 Click here to download the pumping plan now
You don’t have to figure this all out on your own. A plan—and a little support—goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
You are doing something amazing by pumping for your baby. In a situation where so much is out of your control, this is one powerful, loving action you can take every day.
Take it one session at a time. And remember: you are not alone in this NICU journey.