Harnessing the benefits of breast milk for your little one is a rewarding experience, and the Medela hand pump empowers you to do so effortlessly. Its ergonomic design and user-friendly interface make it an accessible and efficient tool for expressing milk. Whether you’re a first-time mother navigating the complexities of breastfeeding or a seasoned professional seeking a reliable and portable pump, the Medela hand pump offers an invaluable solution.
Operating the Medela hand pump is a straightforward process, empowering you to express milk with ease. Begin by ensuring the pump is assembled correctly, with all components firmly attached. Position yourself comfortably, supporting your breast with one hand while grasping the pump handle with the other. With a gentle squeeze and release motion, you’ll initiate the suction cycle that draws milk into the collection container. Adjust the suction strength as needed to find a comfortable level that effectively extracts milk without causing discomfort.
The Medela hand pump provides flexibility and convenience, making it an ideal companion for both occasional and regular pumping sessions. Its compact size allows you to express milk discreetly and conveniently, whether you’re at home, at work, or traveling. The hand-operated mechanism eliminates the need for batteries or electricity, ensuring you can express milk anytime and anywhere. As you progress through your breastfeeding journey, the Medela hand pump remains a valuable tool for maintaining milk supply and providing your baby with the nourishing benefits of breast milk.
Finding the Perfect Fit
Finding the right breast shield size is crucial for effective and comfortable pumping. Incorrect sizing can lead to pain, inefficiency, and reduced milk production.
To determine the correct flange size, follow these steps:
- Measure your nipple diameter: Use a soft ruler or digital caliper to measure the diameter of your nipple at its widest point, perpendicular to the base.
- Consult the sizing chart: Medela provides a breast shield sizing chart based on nipple diameter. Compare your measurement to the chart to determine the recommended flange size.
- Try different sizes: If the recommended size feels uncomfortable or inefficient, try a smaller or larger size. The ideal flange size should fit snugly around the nipple without feeling too tight or causing pain.
Remember to check the fit regularly, especially after changes in your anatomy or milk production.
| Nipple Diameter (mm) | Recommended Flange Size (mm) |
|---|---|
| 12-16 | 21 |
| 16-20 | 24 |
| 20-24 | 27 |
| 24-28 | 30 |
| 28-32 | 36 |
Sanitizing Your Pump
Proper sanitization is essential to prevent contamination and ensure your Medela hand pump is safe and hygienic to use. Follow these steps thoroughly to effectively sanitize your pump:
Gathering Materials
Before beginning, gather the necessary materials:
- Distilled water
- Mild dish soap
- Soft-bristled brush
- Clean towel or drying rack
Disassembling the Pump
Disassemble the following pump parts:
- Breast shield
- Valve
- Membrane
- Connector
- Tubing
Washing the Parts
Wash the disassembled parts in warm, soapy water using a soft-bristled brush. Gently remove any milk residue or debris from all surfaces, including the valve, which is particularly prone to milk buildup. Pay special attention to areas where milk can easily accumulate, such as the nooks and crannies of the breast shield.
| Part | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Breast shield | Wash with soapy water and brush. |
| Valve | Disassemble if possible and clean all components with soapy water and brush. |
| Membrane | Rinse thoroughly with soapy water. |
| Connector | Wash with soapy water and brush. |
| Tubing | Immerse in soapy water and gently squeeze to remove any trapped milk. |
After washing, rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Assembling the Pump
1. Clean Your Hands and Work Surface
Before handling pump components, wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer. Wipe down the work surface with a clean cloth.
2. Connect Pump Body to Collection Kit
Align the pump body with the neck of the collection bottle. Press down firmly to create a secure connection.
3. Attach Flange and PersonalFit Breast Shield
a. Choose the Correct Flange Size:
Use the Medela Flange Sizing Guide to determine the correct flange size for your nipple. If the nipple is too small or large for the flange, adjust the flange size accordingly.
b. Attach Flange to Pump Body:
Center the flange over the pump body and push down to secure it.
c. Attach PersonalFit Breast Shield:
Align the PersonalFit breast shield with the flange and press down to attach it. Ensure the breast shield fits snugly around the breast.
| Flange Size | Nipple Diameter |
|---|---|
| 21 mm | 16-19 mm |
| 24 mm | 20-25 mm |
| 27 mm | 26-32 mm |
Storing and Handling Expressed Milk
Storing Expressed Milk
To maintain the quality of your expressed milk, proper storage is essential. Here are the recommended guidelines:
- Room temperature: Up to 6 hours
- Refrigerator (39°F or 4°C): Up to 5 days
- Freezer compartment in refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks
- Free-standing freezer: Up to 6 months
Do not store expressed milk on the freezer door, as this area is subject to temperature fluctuations.
Handling and Using Expressed Milk
Thawing Frozen Milk
Thaw frozen milk gradually in the refrigerator or under running lukewarm water. Never microwave frozen milk, as it can create hot spots and destroy nutrients.
Reheating Milk
Warm refrigerated or thawed milk to room temperature by placing it in a warm water bath or bottle warmer. Do not boil or overheat milk, as this can compromise its nutritional value.
Feeding Baby
Once thawed or heated, feed your baby the expressed milk immediately. Discard any unused milk after 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour if the baby has started drinking from the bottle.
Table: Freezing Expressed Milk in Bottles and Containers
| Container Type | Amount | Freezing Time |
|—|—|—|
| Plastic bottles | 2-4 oz | 2-3 hours |
| Glass bottles | 2-4 oz | 3-4 hours |
| Plastic storage bags | 2-4 oz | 2-3 hours |
| Ice cube tray | 1 oz | 2-3 hours |
Note: Label all containers with the date and time the milk was expressed or frozen.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Pump Not Working
Ensure the batteries are inserted correctly or the power cord is connected properly. Check that the pump is turned on and assembled correctly.
Low Suction
Try adjusting the suction level, ensuring the flanges fit snugly against the breasts, and check for leaks in the tubing or connections.
Pain While Pumping
Use a larger flange size if the flanges are too small, adjust the suction level, and ensure the pump is not overused. Avoid pumping for extended periods.
Insufficient Milk Output
Try massaging the breasts before pumping, using warm compresses, and ensuring the flanges are the correct size. Consider increasing the pumping frequency or duration.
Leaking
Check for cracks or holes in the breast shields, ensure the bottles are tightly attached, and replace any worn-out parts. Adjust the suction level if necessary.
Pumping Time Too Long
Limit pumping sessions to 15-20 minutes per breast. Overuse can lead to breast sensitivity and reduced milk production. Allow ample time between pumping sessions to let milk replenish.
| Symptom | Solution |
|---|---|
| Pump is not working | – Check batteries or power cord – Ensure pump is turned on – Assemble pump correctly |
| Low suction | – Adjust suction level – Ensure flanges fit snugly – Check for leaks in tubing or connections |
| Pain while pumping | – Use larger flange size if needed – Adjust suction level – Avoid overusing pump |
| Insufficient milk output | – Massage breasts before pumping – Use warm compresses – Ensure flanges are correct size – Increase pumping frequency or duration |
| Leaking | – Check breast shields for cracks or holes – Ensure bottles are attached tightly – Replace worn parts – Adjust suction level |
| Pumping time too long | – Limit sessions to 15-20 minutes per breast – Allow ample time between sessions |
Maintaining Your Pump
Cleaning the Pump Parts
Regular cleaning of the pump parts is essential for hygiene and optimal function. Follow these steps:
• Disassemble the pump parts, including the breast shield, valves, and flanges.
• Soak the parts in a mild dish soap solution for 5-10 minutes.
• Brush away any residues or debris using a soft-bristled brush.
• Rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water.
• Allow the parts to air dry completely before reassembling.
Sanitizing the Pump Parts
To ensure sterility, sanitize the pump parts after each use:
• Prepare a sanitizing solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water.
• Submerge the pump parts in the solution for at least 5 minutes.
• Rinse the parts thoroughly with clean water.
• Allow the parts to air dry completely before storing or reassembling.
Storing the Pump
Proper storage protects the pump and its components:
• Store the pump in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the pump parts disassembled to allow air circulation.
• Avoid storing the pump in areas with excessive moisture or heat.
Replacing Pump Parts
Over time, the pump parts may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. Replace the following parts regularly:
• Breast shields: Every 3-6 months or as needed.
• Valves: Every 2-3 months or as needed.
• Flanges: Every 6-12 months or as needed.
Troubleshooting Pump Issues
If you encounter any issues with your Medela hand pump, refer to the following troubleshooting tips:
• Low suction: Check the valve and tubing for leaks or blockages. Tighten any loose connections.
• Pain during pumping: Adjust the flange to a comfortable size and position. Check for any cracks or tears in the breast shield.
• Leaking: Ensure all parts are securely assembled. Check the valves and tubing for damage or leaks.
How to Use Medela Hand Pump
Step 1: Assemble the pump. Before you start pumping, you need to assemble the pump. To do this, attach the breast shield to the pump body. Then, attach the tubing to the pump body and the breast shield. Finally, attach the bottle to the tubing.
Step 2: Position the breast shield. Once the pump is assembled, you need to position the breast shield on your breast. To do this, center the breast shield over your nipple and make sure that it is sealed against your skin. You should not feel any pain or discomfort when the breast shield is in place.
Step 3: Start pumping. Once the breast shield is in place, you can start pumping. To do this, squeeze the pump handle. The pump will create suction, which will draw milk from your breast. You should pump for about 10-15 minutes on each breast, or until the milk flow slows down.
Step 4: Store the milk. Once you have finished pumping, you need to store the milk. To do this, pour the milk into a clean container and store it in the refrigerator. You can store breast milk in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
