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Which Spectra Pump is Right for Me?

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Jacque Ordner BSN, RN, IBCLC 

With so many breast pump options, it can be overwhelming to make a final choice.  We’re known for our innovative closed system pumps that make pumping more hygienic while also preventing milk from making its way to the pump motor. While all of our spectra pumps offer high quality and amazing comfort, we’ve put together a guide for choosing the best Spectra pump for your specific needs. 

Handy Manual Breast Pump

This manual breast pump is a convenient, no fuss option for moms who only need to pump occasionally.  It is also a fantastic backup to carry in your diaper bag for those oh-so-inconvenient pump emergencies! No outlets, no problem!  Stuck away from your pump unexpectedly, the Handy Pump has you covered!  Many women are surprised at how much milk they can express with a manual pump.  This BPA free pump holds up to 150ml and provides up to 350mmHg of suction all controlled by the user!  This affordable and versatile pump also makes a great baby shower gift! 

Spectra S2 Plus Electric Breast Pump

If you’re looking for a workhorse of a pump that is often covered by insurance, the Spectra S2 Plus is it!  This hospital strength, closed system pump allows for single or double pumping, along with loads of additional features, all in a pump unit that weighs in at under 3lbs.  Boasting up to 270mmHg of suction via 12 vacuum levels and 5 Expression Cycles, this pump is perfect for moms who regularly express their milk.  This pump has strength and customization suitable for Exclusive Pumping as well! The multi-phase “suckle” makes pumping with the S2 feel comfortable and natural. The Massage Mode is also customizable with up to 5 levels of suction to help effectively elicit let-down.  The BPA free accessories, LCD screen display, built-in night light, timer, and 2-year warranty make this pump a top choice for many moms! 

Spectra S1 Plus Electric Breast Pump

A favorite among Exclusive Pumpers, the Spectra S1 Plus includes all the features and functions of the S2 Plus in addition to a rechargeable battery!  The freedom of outlet-free pumping is often offered as an “upgrade” through health insurance plans.  Countless moms have reported the additional cost of the S1 as being “worth every penny”.  It’s no doubt that the 3-hour battery life delivers convenience that can make a pumping mom’s life easier, and when you’re already juggling a thousand things CONVENIENCE MATTERS!  Unplugging this pump doesn’t compromise suction like some other battery powered pumps……. say what?! You still get up to 270mmHg of suction whether plugged or unplugged! And let’s not forget that this amazing pump comes with Spectra’s generous 2-year warranty as well. If a rechargeable pump with the customization of 12 vacuum levels, 5 Expression Cycles, and an adjustable Massage Mode sounds like a dream, then the S1 is for you! 

Spectra S9 Plus Electric Breast Pump

The S9 Plus is Spectra’s smallest pump, weighing in at only ½ a pound!  This tiny, but mighty pump offers the ultimate in on-the-go single or double pumping.  The rechargeable battery allows for convenient pumping in almost any location.  Though this pump is small, it isn’t lacking in features!  It provides up to 260mmHg of suction and is still considered hospital strength…. wow!!!  The S9 Plus also offers an adjustable Massage Mode along with 10 levels of vacuum in Expression Mode and a convenient timer. The backlit LCD screen is an added feature that moms love as well. Pair this little powerhouse with the hands-free CaraCups and you have a convenient hands-free pumping setup without sacrificing effectiveness! This pocket-sized pump also comes with a 2-year warranty. 

Spectra Synergy Gold (SG) Dual Powered Electric Breast Pump

The Spectra Synergy Gold is a game changer in the pumping world!  Never before have we seen a pump with so many features and customizable options!  The dual controls allow for independent vacuum settings at 0-270mmHg PER BREAST!  It also offers a mute mode for even more discreet pumping. The convenient night light has 3 levels for easy middle of the night pumping, and the touch screen LCD makes selecting your cycle and vacuum a breeze! With 5 cycles in both Massage and Expression Modes, this pump has something for everyone.  Where the S1 and S2 have 12 vacuum levels, the SG has 15 and each breast can be independently adjusted! The possibilities really are endless with this incredible dual pump.  The SG maintains the same high standards as other Spectra models with its closed system and 2-year warranty. 

Remember that no matter which pump you choose, flange size, settings, pumping environment and several other factors can make a huge difference in your pumping experience.  Our specially trained International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) can optimize pumping!  Schedule your FREE CONSULTATION today or email us at ibclc@spectrababyusa.com for more help.

Exclusively Pumping: Why and How

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By Jennifer Gaskill

As a first-time mother, I experienced both the demanding and rewarding sides of providing breast milk for my child. My breastfeeding journey was unique and challenging. Like many moms today, my expressed breast milk saved the day. Nowadays, exclusively pumping, once the territory of mostly NICU moms, has become the chosen feeding option for more women.

Some women turn to pumping after dealing with latch and supply issues and/or lack of support at the start of their breastfeeding journey.  For these women, pumping is the one way to supply breast milk to their child. Moreover, working mothers must build up a milk bank before going back to work, helping make the transition easier for both mom and baby.  It is essential that moms considering pumping choose an efficient pump.

Choose the right tool

Most experts state that quality, closed-valve, hospital-strength pumps work best.  Exclusive pumpers must choose a pump that can endure five or more sessions per day throughout the breastfeeding experience. Here are some tips for choosing a pump:

  • Choose a pump with 250 mmHg or higher vacuum strength (also known as a hospital strength). Spectra’s single-user pumps are among the hospital-strength pumps recommended to exclusive pumpers. Moms can customize their settings to personalize vacuum pressure and cycle speed.  
  • If you cannot purchase a pump, you can rent one or buy a used one. When using these options, always choose a pump labeled as ‘multi-user’. Otherwise, the motor may not be designed to endure multiple users and an exclusive pumping regiment. Always purchase new accessories/parts; rentals and second-hand pumps include pump and motor only.  
  • Most insurance companies provide coverage for hospital-strength pumps. You can call your insurance plan or go online to determine your breast pump coverage. Breast pumps are issued by “DMEs” (durable medical equipment) and you can find one that works with your insurance plan here.

Timing is everything

Initially, exclusive pumpers should pump as often as the average newborn baby nurses (about 8-12 times per day). Experts recommend pumping every two to three hours. The timing starts from the beginning of one session to the beginning of the next.  To protect your supply, avoid going longer than three hours between pumping sessions.

Maintaining breast milk supply

When starting out, it’s normal to see as little as 2 oz. combined per sessions. As supply builds, average daily output peaks at 19-30 oz.  Around four to six months, supply naturally starts to self-regulate and milk composition changes often to a higher fat content. A similar shift occurs around 8-12 months. Keeping pace with baby’s feeding schedule will ensure your supply continues to meet baby’s needs.   To keep the pump performing at its optimum, you must replace the accessories/parts periodically.

Maintenance and back-ups are essential

Be sure to regularly inspect and replace parts, especially valves and membranes. Exclusively pumping mothers should look to replace these parts every 2 months and part-time pumping mothers every 3 months. Worn, damaged, or incorrect parts are often to blame for supply fluctuations.   Furthermore, have at least one backup set of replacement parts/accessories available in case of emergency.

Support for exclusive pumping moms is out there.  Whether it comes from a close-knit group of friends, a lactation consultant, or an internet community of like-minded moms. We all know providing breast milk for baby is a labor of love, and having the appropriate supplies and resources makes the journey so much easier.  You can join our support community on Facebook here.

What’s Lowering Your Milk Supply?

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By Jacquelyn Ordner BSN, RN, IBCLC, RLC

A breath mint, candy cane, or peppermint patty all seem pretty harmless, right?  Did you know that peppermint is often the sneaky culprit of reduced milk supply? Most moms don’t!  So, to make it easier for nursing moms, we’ve compiled a list of some little-known milk supply suppressors. 

The following are usually harmless to milk production in typical quantities used for cooking as long as they aren’t consumed in large amounts or very frequently.

– Parsley

-Oregano

-Caffeine

-Thyme

-Vitamin B6 – Watch out for large amounts in common breakfast cereals! (stay well below the 100mg daily limit and you should be fine)

These foods/products/behaviors should be AVOIDED if you are breastfeeding  and want to keep your supply:

-Peppermint: Peppermint Essential Oil is often used when a mother wants to dry up her milk supply!  It is effective at doing so and should be avoided. Most people don’t realize that peppermint oil is in mint-flavored candies, gums, and even menthol cough drops!  A cup of peppermint tea here or there will likely be fine, but that’s the limit. 

-Sage: Sage Tea is another remedy often used when a woman wants to wean or dry up her milk supply.  Sage is powerful and even too much in a turkey and dressing recipe can have negative effects. 

-Smoking: Studies tell us that mothers who smoke produce less breastmilk and their infants typically weigh less.  Studies also reveal that breastfed infants of mothers who smoke sleep less. Coupled with the increased risk of SIDs, it’s clear that quitting is best. Still, smoking and breastfeeding has far more benefits than formula feeding and breastfeeding!

-Dehydration:  You’ve probably seen one of those posts in a social media breastfeeding group where someone swears by red Gatorade, Body Armour, or drinking 200 oz of water a day.  The truth is that you need to be adequately hydrated to make milk, but you don’t need special drinks or excessive amounts of water. In fact, excessive fluids can actually have a negative impact on your supply! So, shoot for your 8 glasses of water a day, plus drinking to thirst, and that’s all you need.

-Dieting:  Don’t get me wrong, eating a healthy and balanced diet is fantastic!  However, heavily restricting your calories can definitely reduce your milk production.  Talk with your doctor about a healthy calorie range for you. Make sure they know you’re breastfeeding, and keep in mind that some women are more sensitive to calorie restrictions than others.

-Decongestants: Think Sudafed.  If it’s meant to dry up mucus, it can also dry up breastmilk.

-Many forms of Birth Control:  The biggest culprits are birth controls that contain estrogen.  Beware, even birth controls that are supposed to be “ok for breastfeeding” can still cause major supply issues for sensitive women.  The best bet for your supply is a barrier method (like condoms). The next best choice is a non-hormonal method (like an IUD). The third choice would be something like the mini pill.  Just be aware that any birth control that contains or affects hormones CAN negatively impact your milk supply. Always talk with an IBCLC if you have questions about medications and breastfeeding.

-Stress: Yep, we know…..this one’s a doozy!  Stress is everywhere when you’re a mom!  Still, if there’s anything you can do to reduce stress, it will benefit your milk supply.  Incorporating light exercise, like walking can help reduce stress. Eating well, trying to incorporate more sleep, and even just getting 30 minutes of “alone” time can be huge for stress reduction. Are there little things you can do to help?  Maybe prepping a few meals on the weekends, or packing your pump bag and baby’s diaper bag the night before? Even seemingly small reductions in stress can have a big payoff!

BONUS:

-Alcohol:  Maybe you’ve heard you should “have a beer so you can relax and make more milk”.  Well, there’s more to it than that! While alcohol consumption isn’t prohibited for breastfeeding mothers, it can have a negative impact on their breastfeeding relationship and breastmilk production.  Alcohol can inhibit your Milk Ejection Reflex or MER. The MER is what causes your milk to let-down. If your milk won’t let down, or if it lets-down very slowly, baby won’t drink as much, or you won’t pump as much.  In the long run, this can lead to less milk being produced. 

Looking for breastfeeding support? Schedule a complimentary consultation with a Spectra Baby USA IBCLC here. 

 

How can you help your partner breastfeed?

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By Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

Congrats! You and your partner just welcomed a new bundle of joy earthside! But between mommy recovering and spending most of her time getting the hang of breastfeeding, where does that leave you? How can you help in all the chaos? The support you provide can determine whether or not your partner accomplishes her breastfeeding goals. That makes your job in all this, pretty important.

Here are 5 practical tips for those who want to help their partner be successful at breastfeeding.

Find her support and get educated

Research tells us mothers who have breastfeeding support from their partners are more likely to meet their breastfeeding goals. So that makes YOU pretty important! The support you give is vital in making breastfeeding work for her and your baby. Educate yourself on breastfeeding. If you were not able to attend a class prenatally, contact your local hospital. Take the time to learn about how the human body makes breast milk and what is typical newborn behavior. The more you know about breastfeeding the more you will be able to support her and encourage her when the going gets tough.

Compliment her and mean it

If seeing your partner carry your child for 9 months and spend brutal hours in labor didn’t change you, check your pulse because you might be dead. I mean seriously! This woman just created life inside of her belly and is now making food from her body to feed your growing child! She deserves the world. Buy her flowers. Kiss her gently on the forehead and tell her you are proud of her. Tell her you love her. Tell her what a great job she’s doing. Make sure you do it in front of others too, so everyone can know how amazing she is! Put your phone down, close your laptop and be present.

Give her some “me” time

Even a hot shower can feel like a vacation to the Galápagos Islands during this journey. Take the baby and give her some alone time to soak out all the stress of being a new mama. For an added bonus, prepare the shower or bath in advance and sprinkle a few drops of lavender essential oil in the corners of the tub for an even more rejuvenating experience. Take the opportunity to do skin to skin and bond with baby. Research tells us that skin to skin with dad is not only important for baby’s development but promotes the bonding process between them. Mommy gets to relax and you get to bond with your baby. Perfect combo!

Screen visitors

Listen, learning to breastfeed can be messy! Newborns are messy. Spit ups, poop explosions, and wet stains on everything from leaking and dripping breastmilk are just a few to name. Go to your partner first and ask if it’s OK to have visitors over the house. It’s OK to say no to visitors. Always ask her first. If an unexpected visitor comes by don’t expect her to have to entertain them. Right now her only worry in the world should be learning to breastfeed and bond with baby. It can all be so overwhelming dealing with cluster feeding and a fussy baby. Throw in your long-lost cousin and her runny nose toddler to the mix and you will have one grumpy postpartum mama. Have a plan in place to dodge visitors. Papa Bear to the rescue!

Keep her fed and hydrated

Provide her with cool water on all her typical nursing stations – night table, living room, coffee table, maybe even a balcony or porch. Did she have lunch? Does she need a snack? Keep the fridge stocked with healthy high protein / healthy fat options to keep mommy producing that super milk to power your little superhero! Keeping mommy fed and hydrated won’t necessarily make her produce more milk but it will help with her feeling relaxed and her milk will flow more easily. Join in and share a glass of water with your partner! Cheers to your health!

Breastfeeding is a family commitment. It takes a village to support a new mom and baby. Arm yourself with the right tools and you will be ready to walk through any breastfeeding obstacle your partner will face. She needs you and so does your baby. Breastfeeding is the best nutrition for your baby and you can help make this journey even more beautiful. Need help finding local breastfeeding support? Email us ibclc@spectrababyusa.com.

We’re here for you and we support you!

Top Breastfeeding Challenges and How to Overcome Them

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By Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

You had envisioned yourself latching your beautiful new baby to your breast, and it would instantly be magical. Pure bliss! But breastfeeding didn’t come as easy as you thought it would, and it feels far from magical. Instead, you feel frustrated, disappointed, and feel like giving up. The truth is, for most of us, breastfeeding is not what we thought it would be like at all. Just like with anything worthwhile in life, breastfeeding takes hard work and commitment. Let us help you get past those pesky common challenges so you can begin to truly bond with your baby.

Here are the Top 10 most common breastfeeding challenges and solutions to get you through those tough times and into a happy place with breastfeeding. 

#1 Painful Latch

Every time you know feeding time is coming around, your toes curl, and you start to get major anxiety because it hurts to latch your baby to your breast! Most likely, it’s because your nipple is rubbing on the roof of your baby’s mouth, causing discomfort. So how can you work on perfecting the latch to get rid of this dreadful feeling? Adjust your body, adjust your baby, and adjust your breast to what feels comfortable and relieves tension. Do this by practicing  “natural breastfeeding,” or also called “laid-back breastfeeding.” If you are using a traditional hold like the cradle or football hold, start the feeding with your nipple above baby’s nose, wait for baby to open wide, and then bring baby quickly (chin first) towards you. This technique can help aim your nipple deeper into your baby’s mouth. When done correctly, you should instantly feel a difference. Phew!

#2 Sleepy Baby at Breast

You changed baby’s diaper, tickled their toes, got them all undressed, and still can’t seem to wake baby from dreamland. A newborn baby should be nursing a minimum of 8 to 12 times per day. If baby is still not at their birth weight, they most definitely need to be woken up to feed throughout the night. For the first six weeks, try NOT to swaddle baby or offer a pacifier. This can interfere with nursing cues and cause baby to feel full and cozy and not want to nurse. Hand express for a few minutes before offering the breast to soften the breast, allowing for baby to latch easier. Sometimes, just a few drops of breastmilk on a sleepy baby’s lips will get them to want to nurse. Use breast compressions while you nurse. This can help keep your baby stay awake because of the steady flow of milk.

If your chubster is already back up at their birth weight, talk to your pediatrician. It’s most likely OK to hit the snooze button on that alarm. Finally rest!

#3 Cluster Feeding 

You feel your baby is practically attached to you morning, noon, and night. You can’t catch a break and you’re tapped out! Cluster feeding is when baby bunches nursing sessions close together about every 45-60 minutes. This feeding pattern is typical for young babies and coincides with growth development, but cluster feeding can be exhausting. Wearing your baby in a wrap or sling will allow you to be hands-free and get work done around the house or on the go! Check out more tips on our baby-wearing blog post here. 

We promise, there is hope! These marathon feedings will increase your milk supply and are typically followed by long sleeping stretches for baby. Sit back, relax, and scroll through your favorite newsfeed. Sleep is on the horizon. 

#4 Baby Refusing the Breast

If your baby was nursing and suddenly refuses the breast, you could be experiencing a nursing strike. Nursing strikes will typically last from just a few short days to over a week. They can be caused by various factors like an illness, teething, significant changes in routine, or long periods of separation from your baby.

Take it back to the basics! Dim the lights and do skin to skin with baby on your bare chest with only a diaper. Offer the breast frequently but, don’t ever force baby! It should be a gentle “wooing” back. You can even have baby gently wake up next to your bare breast. Often, babies will be more willing to nurse when just waking up. Limit bottles as much as possible and offer the breast first. Don’t wait until baby is too hungry. Try to have someone else give the bottle besides mommy.

#5 Sore Nipples

Your nipple is elastic, and as it begins to stretch, you can experience soreness. Soreness in the first few weeks is normal but should subside after about two weeks. Continued soreness, pain, cracking, and bleeding are not normal. It’s best to work closely with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant to ensure baby is latched on properly. The best way to treat sore nipples is with your very own breast milk! Yep, pretty incredible, huh? Studies show the antibacterial properties in breastmilk make it the perfect substance to heal nipples and keep them healthy. Hand express breast milk on your nipples after every feeding and apply a cool hydrogel. Make sure you are changing your breast pads frequently. This will help prevent any infection and allow your nipples to heal faster. Your nipples will be feeling better in no time! 

#6 Engorgement

It’s been a few days, and your milk has officially made its grand entrance. HELLO! Engorgement can make it difficult for baby to latch. To help, you can apply a warm cloth and softly massage your breasts a few minutes before nursing. It’s crucial during this time to nurse frequently! Offer the breast often and use Reverse Pressure Softening, a technique that moves swelling upward and into the breast, providing relief from engorgement. If after nursing or pumping you still feel engorged, fill up a large basin with warm water and lean over it to let gravity naturally drain any excess milk from your breasts. After you’re done, you can ice or use a cold compress for 10 min to help bring down any swelling.

Call your healthcare practitioner if you have redness on your breasts; they feel hot to the touch; you have a fever or chills because it could sign an infection.

#7 Clogged Ducts

Ouch! Clogged ducts can be extremely painful but completely treatable. How did you even get them in the first place? A blocked duct can be caused by various reasons, from prolonged time without milk removal, shallow latch, restrictive clothing, or even stress. The fastest way to treat clogged ducts is by frequently nursing or pumping. Try nursing in the “dangling feed” position or “dangle pumping.” Practice massaging your breasts while nursing or pumping, no matter what position you use each time. You want to start massaging above where you feel the clog and gently move towards the nipple. You can use a warm compress before you nurse or pump to help with milk removal.

Alternate heat and cold on the area affected. If you find you have a milk blister or bleb, avoid trying to squeeze because it can make things worse. The milk blister or bleb will naturally draw out as the clog subsides.

The most important thing to remember with clogged ducts is that they should progressively get better, not worse. Most clogged ducts subside within 48 hours. If pain continues or other symptoms appear, give your doctor a call.

#8 Tongue Tie

You’ve spent countless hours looking under your baby’s tongue and upper lip, comparing it to pictures you found on the internet to try and assess. A tongue-tie is when the connective tissue under your baby’s tongue is too tight, too thick, or both. A tongue-tie is commonly accompanied by a lip tie – the upper lip tissue connecting to the gum can be tight or too thick. Both tongue and lip ties can restrict mobility in oral function, causing issues with breastfeeding.

Unfortunately, ties often go undiagnosed. Signs of a tongue or lip tie can include loud clicking when baby is nursing, baby is not gaining weight, has reflux, or you continue to experience nipple soreness. A specialist such as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant or a Pediatric Dentist can evaluate your baby and provide effective treatment to ensure the breastfeeding relationship can continue. 

#9 Thrush

Stabbing nipple pain, itchiness, and shiny or flaky skin on the nipple or areola can all be signs of thrush. Thrush is a common fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of yeast or “candida.” Candida can be found in its natural environment pretty much all over the human body, but when it starts to multiply, it can cause an infection. Thrush can be a side effect of antibiotics too!  Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and suspect you have thrush. Both you and the baby will need to be treated. Ask about starting probiotics for the both of you, which can help replenish the healthy bacteria in the gut for a quicker recovery and, most importantly, prevent thrush from recurring. 

Rinsing your nipples with a vinegar and water solution (1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar preferred to 1 cup water) or baking soda in water (1 tablespoon per cup) can help stop the spread. Use a fresh cotton ball for each application and mix a new solution every day. Limiting sugar can also help! Make sure you wash and sanitize your pumping parts after every use. 

#10 Mastitis

Last but not least, you think you might have the most dreaded condition in the whole breastfeeding universe; Mastitis. Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue. Symptoms of mastitis include redness of the breast, hard lumps, hot to the touch, and feeling like you’re catching a nasty flu bug. If symptoms persist or get worse after a few days, call your doctor to ensure infection is not brewing. 

There are many causes of mastitis, including lack of breastmilk removal, worsening clogged ducts, change in breastfeeding patterns, and even a tight bra! It’s essential to continue to breastfeed during this time and keep your milk flowing. Make sure you REST and get plenty of fluids, as this often can occur due to a suppressed immune system. You need to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your little one!

Tips for relief are the same as when treating a clogged duct. See tip #7.

If you are experiencing any one of these common breastfeeding issues and still can’t seem to find relief, trust your mommy instincts and seek professional help from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Never quit on your worst day! Always remember why you wanted to breastfeed in the first place. Surrounding yourself with breastfeeding support will make a world of difference. Join our online community on Facebook and connect yourself with other moms who will meet you exactly where you are on your breastfeeding journey. You’re not alone in your struggles, and you’re doing the very best you can!

 

Sources:

Colson, S. D., Meek, J. H., & Hawdon, J. M. (2008). Optimal positions for the release of primitive neonatal reflexes stimulating breastfeeding. Early Human Development, 84(7), 441-449.

Newman, J., & Newman, J. (n.d.). Are you worried your baby’s not getting enough breastmilk? International BreastFeeding Centre. https://ibconline.ca/breastcompression/. 

Thrush. La Leche League International. (2020, August 6). https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/thrush/#:~:text=Rinsing%20your%20nipples%20with%20a,Wash%20your%20hands%20thoroughly. 

 

 

Single Pumping vs Double Pumping

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Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

All Spectra baby USA electric breast pumps have the functionality to be used for single or double breast pumping. Research shows using double pumping will help drain the breasts better and make you more efficient. Yet, there could be times you might want to temporarily incorporate single pumping into your daily routine. Ultimately, the more frequently you express your milk, the more milk your body will make. The options are endless with the Spectra Baby USA pumps, and it’s nice to have a new trick in your back pocket to try. Read on to learn more about single pumping vs. double pumping. 

Why Double Pump?

✔ Exclusively Pumping
Mothers may choose to exclusively pump for various reasons such as latching difficulties or concerns about baby’s weight gain. During the first 12 weeks postpartum, your body is establishing your milk supply. Research tells us that new mothers need at least 120 minutes of quality nipple/breast stimulation per day to establish and maintain a full milk supply. Dual pumping both breasts 8-12 times per day for 15-20 minutes will encourage healthy breastmilk production. Studies reveal when double pumping, moms see about 20% more milk. Double it up when exclusively pumping! 

✔ While at Work 
At work, time is limited and pumping often requires adding in some multitasking. Double pumping with a well-fitted pumping bra will free up both hands to type, take calls, or scroll through social media. It also allows for “Hands-on Pumping.” Moms that use their hands before, during, and after pumping see more milk too! 

✔ On the Go 
Even if you are at home with your newborn and other kiddos, you’re still working! Cooking, laundry, virtual school, or running errands, you are busy and often on the go. Double pumping saves you time! Combine double breast pumping sessions with our portable Spectra 9 Plus and you will never skip a beat during your busy day. 

Why Single Pump?

✔ Slacker Boob
It’s normal for milk supply to fluctuate and to pump more milk on one side. If you are looking to increase milk from one breast, try temporarily adding a few quick single pumping sessions in addition to your regular double pumping sessions. Incorporating short single pumping sessions throughout your day can give your milk supply a boost. Even if you don’t see much milk at first, the increased stimulation will send a signal to your body to make more milk. Try it for three days and then stop to give your body a rest. It can take about a week to see an uptick. 

✔ Clogged duct 
Ouch! Clogged ducts can be painful! And though they may appear on both breasts, there’s typically one breast where they occur most often or more stubborn. Have you heard of “dangle pumping?” Just like the name indicates, dangle the breast into the flange to let gravity help drain the breast more effectively. Combine warm compresses with massage and compression while single “dangle pumping” to resolve clogged ducts fast. 

✔ Skin to Skin when Pumping 
Breastfeeding parents often get into the vicious “triple feeding” cycle – nursing, pumping, and bottle feeding. This routine can get old quickly and overwhelm the already exhausted breastfeeding dyad. If you feel exhausted from double pumping while watching your baby nearby, try single pumping while doing skin to skin! Single pumping with baby on your bare chest can help you relax and bond with your baby. It can also help increase milk-making hormones! Take a break and single pump while skin to skin with your baby. Try single pumping for 15 min on each breast while keeping your little one comfy on your bare chest. Enjoy those newborn snuggles! 

✔ Building a small freezer stash
The general rule is to hold off on pumping for the first 6-8 weeks, depending on when you will start to be away from your baby. If you are nursing your baby and want to start storing breastmilk, add single pumping in between nursing sessions a few times a day for 15-20 min. You can expect to see about .25 – 1ounce. This strategy can help build a small freezer stash to help you prepare for your return to work or school. Planning can ease worry and make the transition easier for both you and your baby. The average milk stash is about a day’s worth of breastmilk 20-25 ounces. Remember, you will always be bringing home breastmilk for the next day too! Read more tips on returning to work here. 

Breastfeeding is a journey! Families will often face obstacles, barriers, and challenges along the way. If your wish is to continue to breastfeed, don’t ever lose hope! With the right support, you can continue to meet your breastfeeding goals. We are here for you! Schedule a consultation with the Spectra IBCLC team or email us at IBCLC@spectrababyusa.com 

Sources:

Bonyata, K. (2018, January 02). Exclusive Pumping • KellyMom.com. Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://kellymom.com/mother2mother/exclusive-pumping/ 

Research on skin-to-skin contact. (2021, February 17). Retrieved March 10, 2021, from https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/news-and-research/baby-friendly-research/research-supporting-breastfeeding/skin-to-skin-contact/#:~:text=Researchers%20found%20that%20holding%20babies,with%20obesity%20than%20other%20mothers.

Nipple Shields: Yay or Nay?

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Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

Are your nipples sore from nursing your newborn? Are you thinking of purchasing a nipple shield to prepare for your breastfeeding journey? Wait! Don’t grab that nipple shield just yet! Temporary use of a nipple shield combined with proper guidance can salvage a breastfeeding relationship at times, but nipples shields can be widely misused too! Read on to find the answers to everything you need to know about nipple shields. 

Do I really need a nipple shield? 
Far too often, nipple shields are used to mask breastfeeding issues without getting to the root cause.Truth is, most moms do not need them at all. Nipple shields essentially create a barrier between you and your baby. They are infamous for low weight gain, clogged ducts, low milk supply and a ton of other breastfeeding issues, even Mastitis. Some newer research tells us temporary use of nipple shields could possibly salvage a breastfeeding relationship if it’s combined with skilled lactation support early on. 

What are some instances a nursing mom might benefit from the temporary use of a nipple shield?
It’s surprising for most to learn flat or inverted nipples begin to naturally draw out with breastfeeding. Even with inverted nipples that don’t protrude with stimulation, nursing or pumping will draw them out and a nipple shield is not even needed. There may be instances, where the nipple does not protrude and a nipple shield can be beneficial. 

Other special circumstances include premature babies (born earlier than 36 weeks) and transitioning from bottle to breast. The supervised use of a nipple shield has been linked to temporarily improving or prolonging the breastfeeding relationship in some studies. 

How do I use a nipple shield?
If you decide to use a nipple shield, make sure it’s the right size and made of thin silicone material. The shield should fit securely over the nipple and areola. When a baby is latched and actively nursing at the breast there should be visible movement on and around the breast. Also, there should be breastmilk on the tip of the shield. These are all indicators the nipple shield placement is correct. Working closely with a local International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, IBCLC is critical to ensure your baby is nutritively sucking at the breast and transferring adequate milk to grow and thrive. 

Weaning off the shield
Nipple shields are intended for temporary use which means the goal should always be to wean off them. Switch and bait can be an effective technique when weaning a baby off a nipple shield. Start nursing with the shield, slip it off and then quickly re- latch baby directly at the breast. This approach can take patience and practice. Start feeding sessions skin to skin and offer the breast at early feeding cues. Crying is a late sign of hunger and a “hangry” baby will be much harder to latch. 

Protect your milk supply if your baby is not latching by dual pumping using a Spectra Baby USA hospital strength pump. In addition, introducing a supplemental nursing system can aid at keeping baby nursing at the breast while trying to wean off a nipple shield. 

Getting skilled lactation support early can prevent the use of nipple shields all together! Nipple shields are not intended for long-term use and should be approached with caution. If you decide to use a nipple shield work closely with a local International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, IBCLC who has experience with using niplpe shields. 

Do you have breastfeeding questions? Schedule a free Spectra Baby USA virtual consultation with one of our experts to help you on your breastfeeding journey! 

We are here for you and we support you! 

Sources:

Chertok, I. Reexamination of ultra-thin nipple shield use, infant growth and maternal satisfaction. J Clin Nurs 2009;18(21):2949-2955.

Meier, P. et al. Nipple shields for preterm infants: effect on milk transfer and duration of breastfeeding. J Hum Lact 2000; 16(2):106-114.

Kronborg H, Foverskov E, Nilsson I, Maastrup R. Why do mothers use nipple shields and how does this influence duration of exclusive breastfeeding?. Matern Child Nutr. 2017;13(1):e12251. doi:10.1111/mcn.12251

Summertime With Your New Baby

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Summertime With Your New Baby
Melissa Portunato MPH, IBCLC, RLC

Summer is finally here! Time to hit the road, spark up the grill or hit the beach with the family for some fun in the sun. Check out our best advice on keeping baby happy and healthy while enjoying the outdoors this summer. 

Will I need to bring along drinking water to give my baby?
Did you know that breastmilk is 80% water? Yep! It’s not necessary to give an exclusively breastfed baby water as long as mama is hydrated and they have free access to the breast or breast milk. Your baby will get all the hydration they need just from your breast milk! Infants less than 6 months should receive their nutrition exclusively from breastmilk, which means no other fluids should be given even in hot climates. 

Can I put sunblock on my baby? 
Your best defense will be to keep your baby in the shade and covered up. The general recommendation is to wait until your baby is 6 months before lathering them up in sunscreen. There are some sunscreens that are safe for younger babies. Check with your pediatrician before you’re ready to be in the summer sun with your baby. The majority of sunscreens on the market have toxic chemicals that are harmful to your baby and the environment. Look for a baby sunscreen with the active mineral ingredients of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, these are ingredients the FDA recognizes as safe. 

What about bug repellent? Is it safe for my baby? 
The skin of a baby is so tender. It can be scary spraying it with bug spray and wondering if the ingredients are safe or will cause an allergic reaction. Most insect repellents are safe for babies over 2 months old. The American of Pediatrics recommends not to use DEET (N, N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) on babies less than 2 months old and not to use more than 10% DEET on a child of any age. It’s best to spray first on your hand and then on your baby. Natural repellents that contain essential oils from plants like citronella and lemongrass can be quite effective and will be the safest route to keep your little one bite free. You might want to consider mosquito netting around your baby’s stroller or bassinet to help keep those blood suckers out too! 

Keep You and Your Breastmilk Cool
You will get extra thirsty breastfeeding, caring for your baby, and lugging around all the outdoor props. Remember to stay hydrated mama! Carry a refillable water bottle with you and drink to thirst. If you are pumping on the go, keep your milk cool up to 24 hours with our pretty pink cooler. Check out the CDC guidelines for milk storage guidelines here. 

Hitting the road this summer with your baby? Do you have questions about pumping on the road? Schedule a one on one consultation with a Spectra IBCLC today. We can help you better plan! Less stress means more summer fun with your baby. 

Sources:

Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Clinical Protocol #3: Supplementary Feedings in the Healthy Term Breastfed Neonate, Revised 2017. Breastfeed Med. 2017;12(3). DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2017.29038.ajk

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI0JO4l7KY6gIVCbSzCh17DgLzEAAYASAAEgJJhfD_BwE

American Academy of Pediatrics: Choosing an Insect Repellent for Your Child, July 2018.

I Think I Want to Use a Breast Pump. Now What?

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by Bonne Dunham. IBCLC

Ok, you are making milk and you want to pump…now what?  What kind of pump do I use? How often should I be pumping and when? How much milk should I expect to see come out? These are just a few of the many questions that new mothers often ask when taking their first journey down Pumping Lane. You are not alone!  Here are some tidbits that should help with this journey.

What kind of pump should I use?  Not all pumps are created equally.  When selecting a pump, you need to ask yourself what kind of use you will want from it; will you be an occasional user or a daily user?  For the occasional-use-mother, who plans on pumping once or twice a week, a manual pump, also called a hand pump, might be a reasonable and affordable choice.  For the regular-use-mother who is planning to use the pump daily while away at work or school, an efficient, electric double pump will likely be the best pump choice.

A hospital strength pump is a more powerful machine; it’s the Cadillac of pumps! It is oftentimes issued by a Lactation Consultant as a multi-user pump or obtained through insurance as a personal use pump.  This pump is used to help mothers build a milk supply when separated from their babies, as in, preterm deliveries or when baby needs to spend some time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).  There are a handful of other maternal health conditions that make it more difficult for a woman to make milk. A hospital grade pump might be a good option if you fall into this category. Speaking with an IBCLC for specific guidance in these scenarios would be the best option.

How often should I be pumping and when?  If you are planning on exclusively pumping, then you will want to pump at least 8-12 times a day to keep your milk supply up, especially until your baby starts on solids.  If you are breastfeeding and hoping to create a milk stash, here are some tips for you:

The bottom line is, you can pump whenever you have a free, and often hard to come by, moment. If you want to maximize your pumping output, pumping in the morning hours when  milk supply is at its highest is the best time. Waiting about 30-60 minutes after a breastfeeding session is ideal. Pumping once or twice a day is often enough if you are looking to make your storage stash, but if you are separated from your baby for whatever reason, you will want to try to pump as often as your baby may have fed during that time. This often looks like every 3 hours or so.

How long should I pump each time?  Most moms need to pump for at least 10 minutes, but no longer than 20-30 minutes is the simple answer. It’s always a good idea to pump 5-7 minutes past the last drop of milk.

How much milk will I be able to pump?  A good thing to know is that if you are pumping between breastfeeding sessions, the average mom will express between 1-3 ounces per session combined breasts  (not per breast).  If you are pumping in lieu of a missed feeding, expect to pump around 3-4 ounces. Keep in mind that this amount can vary based on your breast storage capacity.  If your pumping output is less than this and you are concerned, please reach out to a qualified lactation consultant to help you troubleshoot your concern.

Try not to compare yourself to your friends or co-workers, as some mothers may be able to express far more than the average bear. Every ounce is precious and pumping output is not a good indication of milk supply. So, always seek professional guidance from a trained specialist in the area of lactation (IBCLC).  You can find a Spectra Certified IBCLC near you here.