Does my pump work?

ashybear · February 2014

I have been EBFing until this point (Jude is 3 weeks, 2 days), but would like to introduce a bottle this week to start getting him used to it, and DH and the grandparents involved, so the last few days I've been pumping to try to build up a stash.

This feels like a super dumb question, but how do I know if the pump is *really* working?

I am pumping once a day after a morning feeding. Sometimes I get 5 ounces quickly from one breast, and sometimes (like right now), I'm lucky to get 1oz. from both breasts after 30 minutes. If I remove the pump, I can hand express a strong stream, but even when I massage the breast while pumping, it's just a tiny drop at a time.

The pump doesn't really feel like it's pumping - nothing like when he's actually sucking from it - though I can see the nipple and areola moving.

I've read that altitude over 2,000 can render pumping less effective (I live at 4500 feet), but it seems so strange to me how well it can work sometimes if that's the case.

Is this normal? Any input is appreciated!

MindyBadger1 · February 2014

Are you sure your flanges are the right size??

https://www.medela.com/IW/en/breastfeeding/good-to-know/right-size-of-breastshield.html

If it's a close fit I've noticed sometimes the flow sucked if I was too empty/too full....

The other thing I've done is smell dirty Jack clothes (I know, weird), but helps with let down. If I'm stressed or thinking about slapping DH I've noticed nothing will come out so I shower and go to my happy place first and then it flows like a river.

ETA- I live higher than the mile high city... never heard of that! weird.

thegosiers · February 2014

Time of day can have an effect, as can your hydration. Drink lots of water!

wifetomrb101 · February 2014

Also, if your pump has the valves/membranes (pic below) make sure the white things aren't bent out a little, and are inserted properly. They do need to be replaced every week or so if you're constantly pumping. Drinking a cup of nursing mothers tea or a bowl of oatmeal about an hour or 2 before pumping will help too.

CopperT0p · February 2014

With DS1 I wouldn't get as much when I couldn't feel a good suction like when DS1 was nursing. If you aren't getting a similar vacuum, then you might need to turn up your pump if it has the option to. I have a Medela Freestyle and it is awesome because you can create a routine and it will remember your settings.

ashybear · February 2014

Thanks everyone. The pump is set as high pressure/speed as it'll go. I do feel like the flanges are the right size, but may order the next size up to see if that makes a difference. I 'll try pumping at night tomorrow too. And hydrating and mother's milk tea are great suggestions. I guess I'll just keep on keeping on!

ChuggingWater · February 2014

I didn't know the membranes needed replaced that often.

I almost wonder if I need smaller flanges. @mindybadger1 did you have to order new sizes?

MindyBadger1 · February 2014

@chuggingwater I had to order two sizes larger than the standard 24mm that comes with everything, now I'm just one size up. I got some for free from a LC, ordered others on amazon. It makes a huge difference. Try it for 7 $

mrsbeers · February 2014

Make sure all the pieces of your pump are very tight and secure! This was always the problem for me at first... One side would pump great but I'd notice my nipple wouldn't really pull as far on the other side. Your nipples should be pulled into the more narrow part of the flange and be as centered as possible. Sounds to me like whatever part of your pump that controls the suction isn't fully tight and secure..especially if the highest setting isn't bothersome!

ChuggingWater · February 2014

@mindybadger1 I think too much of my areola goes into the canal. again, *think*.

You ordered from amazon? I cant find them that cheap on there.

ashybear · February 2014

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I pumped this morning at a lower setting, an hour after having some Mother's Milk tea. I also pumped while watching DH give LO a bath, which I think helped with let down. The flanges definitely fit (DH and I both inspected), so at least there's that. It went much better this morning, and we'll see how it goes the next couple days!

MindyBadger1 · February 2014

@chuggingwater

I have this site saved on my wishlist.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000A88JYQ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2WSR24KMI87YB&coliid=I26ENK7UKDGBNU

smalls/mediums are more expensive, but around $10 it looks like.

MindyBadger1 · February 2014

My oversupply is corrected so much that for shits I inspected my flanges (not going anywhere near a pump for a week or 2) and it looks like now I'm the standard size. I guess atleast I have a wide assortment of sizes for future LO's or problems. heh

ChuggingWater · February 2014

thanks, @mindybadger1 ! Free shipping!

MindyBadger1 · February 2014

@chuggingwater

if you need it, I can find it on amazon. My new talent since becoming a mom.

ChuggingWater · February 2014

@mindybadger1

I'm pretty sure my husband is tired of me saying "I just need $X for free shipping."
Amazon. Target..crazy 8.

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