Breast pumps can be crucial when it comes to raising your newborn. They help the mother prepare a backup of milk so that they won’t need to constantly breastfeed their baby and allow for others to handle the process when they are away. That is why it is important to make sure that your pump is in working condition. Let Lehan’s, a provider of women’s health equipment for more than 40 years, give you a bit of advice on when to replace parts in your pump.
The Cup Isn’t Clinging Properly
One of the most important aspects when it comes to the proper functioning of a breast pump is that the cups cling properly to the woman’s breast. This allows for proper and consistent pressure application that will lead to the same consistency in milk output. Some cups warp over time — so if your output seems inconsistent, look towards the cup for the issue.
The Tubes Are Clogged
Though generally fairly easy to maintain, the fact is that it can occasionally be difficult to deal with clogs in long tubes. With regular wear and tear or kinks posing problems in the lines over time, it might be best to replace the tubes. Leaving these issues unaddressed can lead to inconsistent pumping in addition to clogs.
There Isn’t Consistent Pressure
The whole purpose of a breast pump is to imitate the natural sucking of an infant in order to provide consistency and comfort to the new mother. If you begin feeling too much of a variety while pumping, it is potentially time to invest in a new unit to ensure that you are getting the most out of each pumping session.
The Valves and Membranes Are Aging
The valves in a pump allow for milk to pass through and are connected to membranes that are flexible and move alongside the pressure coming from the pump. Over time, they loosen and stretch out leading to a less efficient pump. These should generally be replaced once every two to four weeks.
For many mothers, the birth of their first child is also the first time that they will interact with a breast pump. It is important to understand how the pump functions so that you can address issues when they arise and make sure that your pump is operating properly.
Visit Lehan’s FAQ section for more information on how to deal with preventing and preparing for potential issues with your breast pump.