Single pumping lets a mother massage each breast as she pumps, which can increase milk flow. This may be more milk than your high-risk baby needs just now, but you will be glad to have extra milk in the freezer if milk production drops at some point, which is not unusual after several weeks. Occasionally a mother must take a medication or receive a treatment that affects her milk, so milk is pumped and dumped for a few days. Then any stored milk can be used. Do not be surprised if you obtain more milk at some pumping sessions than others.
Many mothers find they obtain more milk earlier in the day.
Do not be concerned if there is some variation in the schedule from day to day, however. If a session is delayed, pump a little earlier next time. Keep track of when and how long you pump and how much milk was obtained by using a simple checklist chart to note pumping sessions. A written record will help you pick up early any drop in number of sessions, time spent pumping, or volume of milk obtained, so you can make changes before a real problem develops. You are more likely to continue a routine if you pump in a comfortable, yet convenient, spot.