When you’re figuring out how to maintain your milk supply while balancing all the demands of being a new mom, it can all feel like too much. And when there’s an issue with your supply or pumping, you might need a little help. Lactation specialists are the perfect go-to resource for getting the essential lactation support and pump guidance you need to figure out your equipment, deal with unexpected pumping issues, and make a schedule that matches your body’s needs.
Lactation Support, Pump Selection, and More
Lactation specialists bring a depth of knowledge that goes beyond the helpful, but very general, advice that you can get from other moms. Drawing from both their clinical training and practical experience, specialists know how to give advice that truly addresses the nuances of how your physiology interacts with mechanical devices designed for milk expression. When you talk to a specialist, expect:
Thorough assessment of your individual situation
Detailed info on pump mechanics and your body
Visual demonstrations
Help in crafting your own plan
Tips for troubleshooting your pump (and your supply issues)
Help for transitioning back to work
Advice for choosing pumps
Follow-up sessions and support
Assessing You as an Individual
A specialist’s involvement begins with a thorough assessment of your individual circumstances, including all relevant factors, such as your medical history, the frequency with which you plan to express milk, and any previous experiences you’ve had that might influence your comfort or efficiency. For instance, if you’ve had issues in previous pregnancies with engorgement or inconsistent let-down reflexes, a specialist can use those details to make specific recommendations to help you avoid that issue in the future.
This initial evaluation can often help you notice an aspect of pumping that you might have overlooked, such as how your nipple size and shape have affected flange compatibility, or how your work schedule requires you to get a pump with specific battery life and noise levels.
Learn About Pump Mechanics and Your Body
A specialist can help you grasp how a pump’s mechanics work in relation to your body’s signals. For instance, your specialist can help you figure out how to adjust your suction strength and cycle speeds to mimic your infant’s nursing patterns. That, in turn, stimulates prolactin release and helps you maintain your milk supply without causing undue strain on your breast tissue.
In these conversations, you gain insight into how different pump types will interact and work well (or not) with your lifestyle and how you can use the customizable settings to experiment with patterns that optimize your comfort and reduce the likelihood of nipple trauma or mastitis development from improper use.
Visual Demonstrations
Nothing helps like seeing for yourself, and your specialist may be able to show you a demonstration that will totally transform an abstract concept into a practical skill, like how to assemble and disassemble components. They can also watch your technique and help you correct any subtle errors that might otherwise go unnoticed and which could be needlessly causing you frustration or keeping you from getting the most out of your pump.
Troubleshooting Tips
A lactation specialist can help you troubleshoot both your pump and your own habits to get the results you’re looking for. For instance, when you know the proper areola compression and can adjust accordingly, you can stop the common issue of restricted milk flow that comes when parts don’t quite fit and you’re not emptying.
If you notice a decrease in expressed volume despite your consistent efforts, your specialist can analyze your pumping log and suggest modifications that might help, like breast compressions or changing the timing of your sessions to better match the peak production window of your own body.
They can also help you connect these technical elements to any broader emotional and psychological factors that could be an issue. Anxiety about supply, for instance, can actually inhibit oxytocin release, but if you learn how to engage in deliberate relaxation during your sessions, everything may feel more intuitive and less mechanical.
Transitioning to Work
Transitioning back to your professional obligations will always be a little tough, and a specialist can help you craft the right plan to incorporate pumping into your day without overwhelming your schedule, advise you on how to build up a freezer stash gradually while maintaining direct feeding, and explore options for discreet expression at work.
There are pumps with quiet motors and hands-free features that allow you to multitask, for instance, but it’s important to know how these might function differently from your primary, at-home pump. You can also get some guidance on milk storage and handling so you can get back to life with a schedule that works for you and confidence that your baby will have everything he or she needs.
Advice for Choosing Pumps
When it comes to the actual selection process, lactation specialists can help you practically weigh your preferences against issues like the pump’s efficacy, cost, insurance options, and more. They have a lot of familiarity with all the models that have proven reliable in real-world applications and also know how to warn you off any overhyped products that are all about aesthetics but don’t have the functionality you need. They can explain the differences among portable, battery-operated, stationary, double-electric, and hospital-grade pumps in very practical terms that make sense to your needs.
They’ll also be familiar with the integration of technology in modern pumps and can give you tips on which apps are best while also helping you remember to always listen to your body’s cues no matter what an app might say. And once you have your new pump, your specialist can help you get it into your preferred configuration right away.
Follow-Up Sessions and Support
The whole point of your sessions is empowerment. The goal is to equip you with the knowledge you need to self-assess and adjust independently and take full control of your schedule and life. Your lactation specialist can also help you access community resources like support groups or online forums where you can get insight from your peers to complement the expertise you get from a specialist.
Follow-up sessions with your specialist can also give you ongoing support to review your progress, adjust for baby growth spurts that might temporarily increase demand, or even help with things like addressing seasonal allergies that indirectly affect your supply through dehydration. Ultimately, your lactation specialist is someone on your side, committed to demystifying the technical side of milk expression, and giving you practical and evidence-based tips and information that help you make your equipment work for you instead of the other way around.
Armed with their information and advice, you’ll find yourself better and better able to handle changes, adapt to challenges and keep up your own well-being during one of the most demanding times of life.
Pump Guidance and More
At Breastpumps.com, we’re so much more than breast pumps. We help you buy the pump you need and deal with your insurance for you along the way, but we also have videos, a mommy blog, community forums, and lactation specialists all ready to help you succeed. Visit Breastpumps.com now to learn more and get help.
Has your breast pump stopped working properly? We get how frustrating and upsetting that is. It always happens at the worst possible moment, and figuring out the next steps can feel completely overwhelming, especially when you’re relying on that pump daily and now all your plans are thrown into chaos. We can give you the breast pump support you need and help you figure out your warranty claims.
First Steps When You Notice a Problem
Start by assessing what’s going on with your pump. Many issues aren’t actually a total malfunction but something that a simple fix will take care of.
Power?
Always start by checking if the power source is the culprit. If it’s a corded model, make sure the outlet works by plugging something else into it to check. Look to see that the cord isn’t damaged, either.
Battery?
For battery-operated pumps, replace the batteries or ensure the rechargeable unit is fully charged. Sometimes, a low battery can make the suction feel weak or inconsistent even if you’re not technically being told yet that it’s time to charge.
Connections?
Next, inspect the tubing and connections. Cracks, kinks, or loose fittings can disrupt the vacuum seal and give you poor performance. Gently clean these parts with warm soapy water, rinse them thoroughly, and let them air dry. Avoid boiling or microwaving any of these parts unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it, as that could warp the materials.
Flanges?
Examine the flanges, which are the parts that fit over your breasts. If they’re the wrong size, it might not be a malfunction at all but a fit issue that’s causing you discomfort or low output. Most pumps come with standard flange sizes, but you might need inserts or different ones altogether. Or, you might have simply picked up the wrong size by accident.
Document the Issue
If cleaning and basic checks don’t help, document the problem so you’ll be ready to talk on the phone about it. Write down exactly what is happening and take photos or a short video if possible, as this can be useful later. Keep your original packaging, receipt, and any registration details handy.
Check Out Manufacturer Troubleshooting Help
Troubleshooting resources are often available directly from the maker. For instance, Medela provides detailed guides in their user manuals and online, and they’ll suggest you go through a few steps like resetting the pump by unplugging it for a few minutes. Similarly, Spectra offers a support line where consultants can walk you through diagnostics over the phone.
Common Causes of Malfunctions and How to Troubleshoot Them
Breast pumps are like any machine and can have issues over time. Here are some of the most common:
Weak Suction: Worn-Out Parts
One frequent problem moms face is weakened suction, which is often due to worn-out valves or membranes. These small silicone parts create the pump’s rhythm and typically need to be replaced every few months, depending on how often you use the pump. If you’ve been pumping multiple times a day, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for replacement intervals on your model.
Motor Failure: Isolate the Issue
Another issue could be motor failure, where the pump turns on but doesn’t cycle properly. This might happen because of overuse, exposure to moisture, or a manufacturing defect. But before assuming it’s broken, try running the pump without the collection kit attached to isolate if the problem is in the motor or the accessories. If the motor hums normally on its own, the issue might be in the tubing or flanges.
No Charge: Battery Issues
For wearable pumps, battery life and charging ports are common trouble spots. If your pump isn’t holding a charge, test it with a different cable or charger to make sure it’s not the accessory that has the fault.
Accessing Breast Pump Support
When home troubleshooting doesn’t cut it, reaching out for help is your next move. Start with the company where you got your pump, which you can do via our team at Breastpumps.com. Our support team is equipped to handle questions about the models we provide, and we can connect you with lactation specialists who understand not just the tech but how it fits into your routine.
If the issue persists, we’ll guide you to contact the manufacturer directly. Each brand has its own support channels, but always be prepared to provide your pump’s model number, serial number, and purchase date. These are usually on the bottom of the unit or in your order confirmation.
Your Support Call
During the call, describe the problem clearly and mention what you’ve already tried. Support reps might ask you to perform additional tests, like checking for blockages in the system or verifying the pump’s settings. If they determine it’s a malfunction, they’ll guide you toward the next steps, which could include sending in the pump for inspection or just issuing you a replacement if it’s under warranty.
Filing Warranty Claims
Once you’ve confirmed the malfunction isn’t fixable through troubleshooting, it’s time to proceed with a claim. Most breast pumps come with a manufacturer’s warranty, and you’ll usually have coverage for one to two years from the purchase or shipment date, though this varies by brand. Accessories like flanges or valves usually have shorter coverage of around 90 days.
To start, you’ll need proof of purchase. For pumps sourced from us at Breastpumps.com, your order details can serve this purpose. Fill out the brand’s warranty form, and be honest and detailed in your description. Include the symptoms you’re seeing, all the troubleshooting attempts you’ve made, and any supporting media you have. If your pump is still under warranty, the manufacturer should repair or replace it at no cost, though you might cover shipping.
How Long Will It Take?
Processing times vary, so expect anywhere from a few days to weeks. In the meantime, ask about loaner pumps. Some companies or suppliers offer them to keep you going. If the claim is approved, you’ll receive instructions on returning the faulty unit. Be sure to pack it securely and follow all the guidelines they give for packaging to avoid any further damage to the pump.
When Does a Warranty Not Apply?
Warranties don’t cover problems that arise from misusing or accidentally damaging the pump. If you drop it, don’t clean it properly, or don’t replace the parts at the recommended intervals, your warranty will likely be voided.
Preventing Future Malfunctions
The best way to avoid issues is to maintain your pump properly. Clean it after each use, store it in a dry place, and follow the usage limits. Replace any wear parts on schedule, and register your pump upon receipt to fully activate the warranty.
If you’re pumping often or are totally dependent on your pump, consider getting an inexpensive backup manual pump just to have for emergencies. Also consider getting backup accessories so you can quickly get back to pumping if a faulty accessory is all it is.
New mothers frequently are often looking for help, and thankfully, these days there’s lots of support available from various community resources. These groups, hotlines, and online hubs deliver practical ideas but also emotional encouragement and reliable information that’s tried and tested by other moms. Breastfeeding support is just a few clicks away!
What Are the Benefits of Joining a Breastfeeding Support Group?
All kinds of issues can throw themselves at you as a new mom. Your newborn may take time to latch properly, cluster feeds can exhaust you, or you might be wondering whether the baby is getting enough milk. Without someone to ask, it’s easy to doubt yourself and get consumed by worry, and that’s not the best thing for a new mom dealing with hormonal swings as a natural aftermath of childbirth. Mothers who connect with others early, though, can benefit from shared experiences and concerns. Here’s some ways community resources help:
You Stop Feeling So Alone
One of the biggest changes you notice early on is that the feeling of isolation starts to lift. In those first weeks, you’re often at home feeding around the clock while everyone else sleeps or goes about their day. It’s easy to think you’re the only one dealing with cluster feeding or a baby who fusses at the breast, but when you join an online group or read through shared stories on a dedicated site, you realize almost every mom hits these same bumps.
You might come across a post from another mom describing how she worried about her supply during a growth spurt and dozens of replies assuring her it passes in a few days. Or, you could see someone share about leaking through shirts or dealing with engorgement and think, “That’s me right now.” Reading those experiences makes you feel seen. You don’t have to explain why you’re exhausted or why a bad latch brought you to tears because everyone on the forum just gets it.
This connection can really help you push through tough days because you know you’re not failing. Many moms say that simply knowing others have been there keeps them from giving up sooner than they wanted.
You Pick Up Tips That Make Daily Life Easier
You don’t have to figure out every challenge through trial and error. Reliable community spaces are where moms share straightforward advice that comes from both experts and moms who’ve tried it all. For instance, you might learn a new way to hold your baby that helps with a shallow latch or find out about using warm compresses before feeding to ease your discomfort.
If you’re dealing with oversupply or forceful letdown, you can read suggestions for feeding positions that slow the flow so your baby doesn’t choke or pull off crying. Moms often share how they handle plugged ducts with gentle massage or lecithin supplements, for instance.
You can also get ideas for building a better routine. There are lots of moms on the forums, in lots of situations: some just like yours. They’ll have tips for how to watch for hunger cues early, keep a simple log of wet diapers and feed times to reassure yourself about intake, and other ideas that work for you.
You Can Get Professional Breastfeeding Support
Sometimes you need more than peer advice. You want guidance from someone trained in lactation. At Breastpumpscom, we not only have a supportive community of new moms but also access to certified lactation consultants. You can describe what’s happening and get specific feedback that’s responding to your specific needs and concerns. This kind of targeted help saves you from guessing or trying things that don’t fit your situation.
You might also find explanations about medications or health conditions that affect you and your baby. If you’re on antibiotics or have thyroid issues, for instance, a quick check with an expert might help you if you’re concerned about safety. For moms with premature babies or multiples, specialists can help you come up with plans that account for these unique needs.
You Learn How to Choose the Right Breast Pump for You
Pumping could become part of your routine for many reasons, like going back to work, sharing nighttime feeds with your partner, or building up a stash. But choosing pumps isn’t always easy. What works with your insurance but has the suction strength, battery life, size, or features you need? Other moms can help you understand what you need.
If you want something discreet for work or errands, you can ask others about the wearable pumps that fit inside your bra and learn which ones stay secure during movement or hold enough milk for longer sessions. Guides, of course, will explain how to assemble parts correctly, adjust settings for comfort, and avoid common mistakes that reduce output, but nothing is as helpful as actually talking to someone who has used a pump.
You Can Prepare for Going Back to Work Without Losing Your Supply
Returning to work while still nursing is doable, but it takes some prep. Through access to communities of breastfeeding moms, you’ll get realistic schedules from moms who’ve done it, and they’ll share how their output adjusted over time and what they did if it dipped at first. You might also get practical advice about storage, labeling, transport, and other highly practical issues.
You’ll Find Help for Your Unique Situations
Every family is different. If you’re nursing twins, talking with a wide community of moms means you’ll likely find someone else facing that same issue who can give you tips for tandem feeding positions or alternating feeds. Moms of preemies might find advice on fortifying milk or pumping schedules for NICU stays. If you’re inducing lactation, other moms may have some proven, step-by-step protocols to guide you through how they used herbs, pumping routines, or medications and the success they had (or didn’t have!).
Mental health doesn’t get ignored, either. Other moms know what you’re going through, and they can tell you what to watch out for. You’ll learn to notice signs of postpartum mood changes and get links to additional help. Plus, you’ll have someone right there to confirm that you’re not “going crazy.” Tough feelings are real, but they also often have an explanation and are something that lots of moms go thought. Knowing what’s happening and the options for help that other moms have found can be the support you need in the hard times.
You Build Confidence That Lasts Beyond Breastfeeding
As weeks turn into months, all this support and your own experience add up. You trust your body more, you feel confident with your child, and you’re ready to give advice to other, newer moms in turn.
This confidence also spills over into your other parenting decisions, and you might also find you’re better able to advocate for yourself at doctor visits or set boundaries with family. Many moms keep participating in these groups for the long term, answering questions for newcomers and paying forward the help they received.
Whether you’re just starting or hitting a rough spot, take a moment to explore a trusted online hub or hotline. Visit our Resources section at Breastpumps.com now and connect with a lactation specialist, watch helpful videos, and talk with other moms on our forums.
If you are having a difficult time getting your baby to latch properly, a nurse or lactation consultant may recommend the use of a nipple shield.
A nipple shield is a flexible, soft silicone nipple that fits over your nipple and areola that can help your baby latch on properly as you both get used to breastfeeding.
Research has shown that premature infants who nurse with nipple shields intake more milk than infants who don’t use a nipple shield when nursing.
Nipple shields can also help transition babies from bottles to breastfeeding.
Because your baby may not be able to completely drain your breast with the nipple shield, it’s important to use a breast pump after nursing, keeping your milk supply up and reducing the risk of plugged milk ducts.
If you are having a difficult time getting your baby to latch properly, a nurse or lactation consultant may recommend the use of a nipple shield. A nipple shield is a flexible, soft silicone nipple that fits over your nipple and areola. Using a nipple shield can help your baby latch on properly as you both get used to breastfeeding.
When to Use a Nipple Shield
A nipple shield can be helpful for you to use in several situations. These situations include:
Breastfeeding a baby who is premature, small or ill – The nipple shield holds the nipple in an extended state, which will allow your baby to latch and nurse easier. Research has shown that premature infants who nurse with nipple shields intake more milk than infants who don’t use a nipple shield when nursing.
Flat or inverted nipples. The nipple shield can help hold inverted or flat nipples in the proper position for the baby to latch on properly.
Switching babies from bottle to breast – Silicone nipple shields have a similar texture to bottles, providing comfort for babies who refuse or are used to breastfeeding without the aid.
Cracked or bleeding nipples – An improper latch may traumatize your nipples, making it extremely painful to breastfeed. A nipple shield can help protect sensitive nipples while they heal.
Disadvantages to Using a Nipple Shield
Your milk supply may decrease as a result of your nipple not being directly stimulated.
You are at an increased risk of developing blocked milk ducts and mastitis because of decreased milk transfer.
It can be difficult to wean your baby off of the nipple shield.
Different Types of Shields
Nipple shields are either formed from silicone, latex or rubber. They come in different sizes ranging from small to large. It’s important to choose the proper size in order to fit both your baby’s mouth and your nipple. Some types of nipple shields have a cut out lower portion, which allows more skin-to-skin contact.
Using a Nipple Shield
How to Use a Nipple Shield
Place the shield onto your nipple with the brim of the shield upturned. Once the nipple is in place, smooth out the edges. The will help the shield to stick to your breast. If you still have difficulty in getting the shield to stay properly, try moistening the edges only with a little water. If your nipple doesn’t fit into the shield properly, try the next size up, ensuring that it isn’t too large for your baby’s mouth.
Remember to Pump
Your body will make breast milk based on “supply and demand.” The more milk that is removed from your breast, the more that your body will make. Because your baby may not be able to completely drain your breast with the nipple shield, it’s important to use a breast pump after nursing to express the milk as your body regulates itself. Without a breast pump, your milk supply may decrease if your baby can’t remove all of the milk he or she needs. Pumping can also reduce the risk of plugged milk ducts. Most insurance companies will provide you with a breast pump at no cost to you.
When Not to Use a Nipple Shield
If your baby isn’t having at least six wet diapers a day and isn’t gaining weight, you may need to discontinue using a nipple shield and try a different method (such as pumping) while you work on your latch. Talk with your doctor, lactation consultant or nurse for help.
Tips for Weaning Your Baby from the Nipple Shield
As your baby grows and you become more comfortable with nursing, you won’t need to continue to use your nipple shield. Because your little one will be used to using it, however, it may take some time to wean your baby from the nipple shield. Try these methods:
Pumping for a few minutes before breastfeeding until your milk has “let down.”
Applying cold water or ice to your nipple for a few seconds to harden it.
Breastfeeding without the nipple shield while your baby is very sleepy.
Breastfeeding more often than usual. If you wait until your baby gets too hungry, he or she will be more likely to reject your breast without the shield.
Try nursing in different positions.
How to Care for Your Nipple Shield
Because it’s coming into contact with your baby’s mouth and your breast, it’s important to clean your nipple shield after every feeding. Wash your nipple shield in hot, soapy water and allow it to air dry. Boil it once a day in a pot of water for 20 minutes to keep it sanitized.
Using a nipple shield can help you nurse successfully while your baby grows or while your nipples heal. Be sure to use a nipple shield with the help of a lactation consultant or nurse for the best results.
For more information or parenting support, visit our blog.
If your husband or partner claims that he, too, is experiencing pregnancy cravings or morning sickness, your first instinct may be to roll your eyes at him or suspect that he is in need of some serious attention. After all, you are the one expecting the baby. Surprisingly, he may not be exaggerating. Expectant dads can also experience pregnancy symptoms. Couvade syndrome, also known as “sympathetic pregnancy,” affects an estimated 80 to 90 percent of expectant dads.
What is Sympathetic Pregnancy?
The name “Couvade syndrome” is derived from the French word “couver,” which means “to hatch.” The condition has become more common in the past 30 years as fathers have taken a more prominent role in pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. Fathers who experience sympathetic pregnancy have many of the same physical and emotional symptoms as their pregnant counterparts.
Causes of Sympathetic Pregnancy
Though scientists aren’t completely sure of the reason that the syndrome occurs, it is believed to be caused by strong feelings of stress and empathy. Anxiety about the health of their partner and the new baby, as well as financial concerns and worries about becoming a new dad can cause a large amount of stress in expectant fathers. When this stress isn’t controlled in healthy ways, the body reacts by releasing a potent combination of the hormones cortisol, adrenaline and norepinephrine. These hormones, combined with empathy for the pregnancy symptoms of their expectant partners, are believed to cause the condition to occur.
Particularly stressful situations, such as experiencing infertility or pregnancy loss, make the condition more likely to occur in subsequent pregnancies. Additionally, some studies show that fathers who are adopted are more likely to experience sympathetic pregnancy.
Typical Symptoms of Couvade Syndrome
While most expectant dads will experience sympathetic pregnancy symptoms at some point, only a small percentage will experience dramatic symptoms. These common symptoms include:
Nausea
Weight gain
Insomnia
Mood swings
Heartburn
Food cravings
Fatigue
Mild swelling
In rare cases, expectant dads have reported breast growth, vomiting and experiencing cramping or abdominal pain as their wife or partner went into labor.
Treatment for Sympathetic Pregnancy
Unfortunately, there is no medication to alleviate the symptoms of a sympathetic pregnancy. Things that can help your husband or partner are many of the things that your doctor has probably recommended for you: eating healthy, getting exercise and practicing stress-relief techniques before going to sleep at night. You can help your husband or partner by trying these activities together. Work together to make a healthy dinner at night or go on evening walks together.
These activities can not only alleviate his symptoms but can help the two of you bond while you prepare to meet your new little one. Bonding can make him feel more secure of his role as your husband or partner and of his new role as a father. If your husband or partner is experiencing extreme sympathetic pregnancy symptoms, however, it’s a good idea for him to talk with a doctor or mental health professional to determine how to best help him.
The next time that your husband or partner complains of his swollen ankles, invite him to prop up his feet next to yours. His symptoms are springing up from the concern he has for you and your new little one and maybe (just a little) need for some extra attention. Go ahead and give him a little extra sympathy for what he is experiencing and know that relief is coming for both of your symptoms in the form of a brand-new baby. While you’re doing your own research about what to expect, it may be beneficial for your partner to do some studying up of their own. Ameda has a wide variety of resources that can help to put both mom and her partner at ease. The more you both know about what to expect before, during and after the birth of your new baby, the more comfortable you’ll both be as you wait for the arrival of your new bundle of joy.
Need help? Give us a call at 888-495-7491 Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday 9:00 a.m. -- 5 p.m.
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