Ameda PY pump problem

Lferr417

So lately when I am pumping the silicone diaphram will get stuck in the sucked in position and will not release unless i pop the white cap at the top and put it back on- but it continues to do this the entire time i pump- resulting in barely any milk coming out. I've even tried replacing the silicone diaphrams and yet it still does it. I really have tried to pin point the problem with no luck. I keep meaning to call Ameda- but you all know how it is! (working mom or not- life is BUSY with an infant) . I am also having huge suction issues (NO suction) using the handpump piece too.... this is leading me to believe it may be the clear shield piece... I noticed  the difference since i sterilized everything when i came home from a work trip.. I forget if i steamed or boiled them to be honest.

Has this happened to any one else?

aylafsu88

My silicone cups will stick like that when there is any wetness in that part of the flange. Are you making sure everything is dry in there?  Sometimes I have milk spray up in there and I have to stop and dry the silicone cups off and that part of the flange before pumping again.  You could also try replacing the white caps and tubing to see how that works.  as for the suction you may need to replace the white valves on the bottom of the flange.  They are really important for suction and if they get a small tear it can mess with pumping.  I have found that the white valves are the most important thing to replace consistently as they usually are what is causing an issue with pumping.
I steam my flanges almost every day and have not had any issues with them.  Are you setting up the hand pump correctly?  I know I had to look at the Ameda manual to figure it out the first time.

Lferr417

Yes I notice milk spraying as well - so I will try that next time!

And as for the hand pump i havent changed what I did when i used it when i was away - so i am 99% sure i set it up correctly- but will re-read to double check. I feel like the white silicone piece on it "shrunk" (not literally) and it just doesnt make a suction with the top of the flange.

amberdt03

I haven't had any problems with the silicone piece even after milk sprays up there. I lost suction in one side, but I realized the white piece had a tear in it. After I replaced it, it worked good as new.

chesnutridge

I have had the same problem as OP. I have changed some parts out, and continue to habe the problem. I have noticed it happening when it gets wet inside, but it is also happening without it being wet. I ordered new diaphragms. I was wondering if it had to do with the seal of th cap. We'll see. Honestly, I really hate this pump. I wish I had a medela. I consistently have had problems with it.