Pumping at the same time?

I currently work and I pump every 2-3 hours at work. However, I don't always pump at the same time. I do try to though. I guess my question is: should I pump at the same time everytime to be able to increase my milk. I currently pump about 5 oz a day but I am sure I have more milk and my baby gets more than I pump. I have a Medela duplbe breast one so my pump is pretty good. I just don't seem to see the increase as much. I was expecting after week or so to see at least 1 or 2 oz increase. Any suggestions?

[KATE535]

I would make sure to pump both sides at each pump session. It's important that you signal your body to produce more milk in both breasts. I think if you are religious about that, you will see an improvement in your supply. Try 15 mins a side every 3 hours. If your baby is around 5 months old you should be able to spread to 4 hour gaps. But the keys is to pump both breasts at a session :)

[karla78]

I guess I should have been more clear. I do pump both breast at the same time, I just don't due it at the same time all the time (hourly wise)...should I?

[KATE535]

Oh, I see, sorry :)

I would say it would be beneficial to try to do it around the same time each day because your body will get used to the routine of having a good supply of milk when you need it most.
I am expressing 4 times a day now, and my body has been getting used to having the milk I need right before I'm due to pump. It's really quite amazing, sometimes when I *think* about it being time to pump, I feel myself fill up!
So the answer really is yes, if you are able to pump around the same time each day, your milk supply will adapt soon enough. I can say so from my own experience :)
Oh also, if you want to increase the amount you're pumping at a session, try going a few minutes longer for a while at the end of your pump session. This will signal your breasts to make more (results will soon show in a few days after starting this)