Pumping help please

smilelari

My output is way down because I decreased the suction level.  I've had some issues with bleeding   I normally pump at like a 7 or 8 and have decreased to a 5.  I thought I had healed up and bumped it up to a 6, but started bleeding again.

Any suggestions how to heal up?  Or how to increase output at the lower level?

haleymay18

You're sure you have the right size shield? The only time I noticed the shield was an improper fit was on the higher settings.

browneyes_24b

I initially used lanolin when the nips were cracked and bleeding, but I switched to putting some BM on them and letting them air dry.  Made a huge difference.  HTH!

Regarding the suction level - I wish I could help.  I've still always been able to get the same amount regardless of the suction level - it just takes a longer.  

jb_uncp

have you tried nipple cream and compresses?

MommaMcG

Do you need a bigger flange?  If it hurts, then you probably do!

smilelari

jb_uncp:

have you tried nipple cream and compresses?

yep

Compresses gets some additional output but still not like on the higher level

smilelari

MommaMcG:

Do you need a bigger flange?  If it hurts, then you probably do!

I'm not sure.  Despite the bleeding, I've not had any pain, but maybe it's worth a shot?

MommaMcG

smilelari:

MommaMcG:

Do you need a bigger flange?  If it hurts, then you probably do!

I'm not sure.  Despite the bleeding, I've not had any pain, but maybe it's worth a shot?

Where are you bleeding?  Is it on the side where it would rub against the plastic?

A S-ski

I've heard, but I can't remember where, that the suction level isn't always correlated with the amount of milk you get or how fast it pumps.  I was pumping on level 5 but started to get slightly irritated.  I moved back down to 4 and I get the same amount I did at level 5 in the same amount of time. 

chelseymat

It will end up taking longer but if you massage/squeeze your breast on the lower setting you might me able to get more output....it worked for me. The only problem is you can only do one side at a time unless your pump is hands free

smilelari

MommaMcG:

smilelari:

MommaMcG:

Do you need a bigger flange?  If it hurts, then you probably do!

I'm not sure.  Despite the bleeding, I've not had any pain, but maybe it's worth a shot?

Where are you bleeding?  Is it on the side where it would rub against the plastic?

It is on the side where it would rub against the plastic.  There's just one spot where it's cracked and irritated