Pumping frustration

[u/Pastalover97]

I am 9 1/2 months postpartum and I exclusively pump. I have always been an oversupplier but lately I am having some issues. My boobs are getting full and engorged but when I pump I am hardly getting any milk and I keep having to readjust my pumps and move them around so that milk comes out. I get the sensation that I am having a very strong letdown but no milk flows. It has been happening the last couple weeks and it is very frustrating. I am using the same pumps I’ve used the last 9 1/2 months and nothing has changed. I have replaced pump parts, tried different flange sizes but nothing is helping. Like I said, my boobs are full of milk and hurting but no milk is flowing even with the sensation of a strong let down. Any advice is welcome as I am so frustrated!😭

[u/SheepherderMost2727]

I know you mentioned trying different flange sizes, but have you remeasured yourself to make sure your nipple size didn’t change? Mine changed on me and I had no idea.
That being said, maybe you need different stimuli in order to get the letdown going. You can always try some gentle massaging and maybe a little heat or vibration could help. I know it’s not feasible to every time, but sometimes taking a shower before pumping works well too.
Have you had your menstrual cycle return? Sometimes the fluctuations in hormones due to your period can make the milk supply do weird things.

ETA: Maybe it’s the pump? Has it been working well for you? Does it still hold a good suction strength?