Eufy vs Perifit Wearable Breast Pump

With the Eufy pump cost at a premium, which pump can rival it without spending $300?  

We tested the Perifit breast pump and really like what we saw.  First it actually does 300mmHg on it's highest level of suction which most wearable just do not reach.  Next we liked that it was high quality designed in France as you can note on the flanges as they are high quality silicone and you can choose your flange size on the double pump from 18mm, 21mm or 24mm instead of using an insert which can interfere with suction and also is another part to clean.  I also really like the suction and speed levels.  You can choose up to 12 levels of suction and the speed can be used at a fast pace, slow pace, massage pace and a unique intermittent pace that alternates 8 stimulation cycles and one expression cycle that helps milk to flow more quickly.

Below is a chart with features that may help you decide on the pump for me.  Some models of the Eufy do offer heat, but if there are issues with clogged ducts or mastitis, heat is no longer recommended due to increased inflammation. If heat is used on healthy breasts, it should be used short term at the beginning for let-down, not during the entire pumping session.

Feature	Perifit	Eufy
Milk Capacity	160 ml (5.4 oz)	150 ml (5 oz)
Suction Strength	300 mmHg	Up to 300 mmHg
Vacuum Levels	12 levels	7 levels
Speed Levels	3 speeds + Alternating	3 speeds
Noise Level	~35 dB	~45 dB
Battery Life	6–7 sessions	4–6 sessions
Special Features	App coaching, app           control, tracking	Heat (S1), timer, app control
Discreet Wear	Sits close to body;           natural shape	Rounded shape; bulkier
Parts Assembly	Easy, fewer parts	More parts to assemble
Cost	$249-$299	$309-$379

So should you spend over $200 on a wearable breast pump?  If you are using an electric pump like the Spectra S1 most of the time and just use a wearable on occasion, a less-expensive pump such as the Lansinoh Discreet Duo might be a good option.  If you have low milk supply or are going to use a wearable most of the time, then yes, these high quality pumps are going to be better for your milk supply and in the long-term easier on your wallet than buying formula.  I've tested a number of other wearables popular because of their price point including TSRETE and Imani, but for daily use there is no comparison in quality and consistent suction to Perifit and Eufy.

Here's to a great hands-free pumping experience,

Tanya

Love or Hate Pumpin Pals? Spectra OEM Flanges vs Pumpin' Pal Flanges

We get this question a lot.  Are Pumpin' Pal flanges worth it? Moms tend to either love or hate their Pumpin' Pals.  While there can be a variety of reasons, the most common reason is fit that can cause irritation. loss of suction and less milk output rather than a higher milk yield enjoyed by the moms who love them.  If you want to try Pumpin' Pals you will need to pack a little patience and expect that there is a learning curve because unlike any others I have seen they are angled like the baby's mouth which when used correctly does often result in more comfort and higher breast milk yield. 

Let's compare to Spectra which is a top choice with mothers today.

Difference in Sizing

Spectra OEM Size	OEM Inner Diameter	Pumpin’ Pals Size	Angled Inner Diameter	Practical Fit/Feel
16 mm	~16 mm	2XS	~17–18 mm	Slightly looser than Spectra 16mm — good fit if 16mm OEM is snug
20 mm	~20 mm	XS	~21–22 mm	Looser than Spectra 20mm — size may feel loose on many moms who use 20mm
24 mm	~24 mm	Small	~25–26 mm	Noticeably looser than Spectra 24mm  — may feel loose on moms who use 24mm
28 mm	~28 mm	Medium	~29–30 mm	Slightly larger than Spectra 28mm — good if comfort over vacuum strength is the goal
32 mm	~32 mm	Large	~33–34 mm	Larger than Spectra 32mm — extra comfort, less suction seal than OEM 32mm

                                      

Difference in Design

The Spectra OEM BPA-free plastic will feel and react differently than some of the Pumpin' Pal flange sizes.  XXS, XS and Small are made from silicone which is optimal for moms who have elastic nipples that get pulled too far into a normal flange tunnel.  Size medium, large and x-large are made from the same type of BPA-free plastic but the angle of the flange is often more comfortable especially when you learn how to use them.  Since they use a connector to attach to your pump, you can change the angle of the flange so moms who have nipples that face upward or even downward, can adjust the flange to meet the needs of their anatomy.

Difference in Price

A standard OEM flange is around $14.99, while the Pumpin Pal bpa-free flange is around $19.99.  Extra cost is for the silicone since it is more expensive to make which is $24.99 and the adapter to use with OEM valves and backflows is an extra $10 if you add it on to your purchase.

Moms who love the Pumpin' Pal flanges often have a more comfortable pumping experience and higher milk yield.  Moms who don't often don't give themselves enough time to learn to use them properly.  Pumpin' Pal offers an IBCLC to help with sizing and Lactation Connection offers a flange size credit to moms to help them get another size if that end up being the issue.  

Are they right for you?  Now that you know more about the sizing, you might try purchasing one size.  Know that these are hygienic non-returnable items but as long as you know your size, it is less expensive than buying a three size set.  If you are not sure about your size, purchase a nipple ruler to help you decide.

Here's to a more comfortable and prolific pumping experience,

Tanya

Power Pumping vs Cluster Pumping - Which is Better for Increasing Milk Supply?

As a retired IBCLC with 30+ years experience in breastfeeding support, I am not sure that power pumping is the best method for increasing milk supply for every mom.  The method has limited scientific research and can cause moms quite a bit of frustration with such ridged and lengthy pumping sessions. Not to mention friction when dry pumping. While nipple stimulation does sustain hormone signals, research supports that regular extraction is the source of increasing milk supply.  Apart from moms who are relactating or inducing lactation, cluster pumping is a better method than power pumping because there is more milk to extract every 2 hours than there is when pumping again in 10 minutes. For clarity, I have outlined the power pumping method and cluster pumping methods below for moms with babies under six months below. While we are listing these times as pumping, nursing sessions can and should be used in place of these when possible.

Power Pumping 

60 minutes session once per day as below; pump an additional 7 x daily for 20 min. 

• Pump 20 minutes

• Rest 10 minutes

• Pump 10 minutes

• Rest 10 minutes

• Pump 10 minutes

Cluster Pumping 

Pump every 2 hours with one 4 hour stretch. The schedule below includes cluster pumping during the midnight to 5am window that prolactin milk producing hormone is the highest.

• Pump @ 12am

• Pump @ 2am

• Pump @ 4am

• Pump @ 8am

• Pump @10am

• Pump @ 12pm

• Pump @ 2pm

• Pump @ 4pm

• Pump @ 6pm

• Pump @ 8pm

• Pump @10pm

Power pumping is normally used for one week daily and a second week every other day.  Cluster pumping is meant to closely imitate an infant's growth spurt and results should be evident after 7 days of the outlined schedule.

No matter how many years go by, research has never found the principle of supply and demand to be refuted.  Better extraction through waiting long enough for milk to build and simulating a natural way baby's cluster nurse is my recommendation.  And remember, better extraction with a breast pump means a double electric breast pump with properly sized flanges and optimally not a wearable breast pump. If you own a wearable, it is for convenience.  Your electric breast pump should always be your main breast pump. But having said that, the best breast pump is the one you will actually use.

Here's to demand for supply!

Tanya

Hospital Grade Breast Pump Comparison for Corporate Lactation & Clinical Lactation

Hospital grade breast pumps also know as multi-user breast pumps are often used for corporate lactation and clinical settings. There are three we most often recommend.  

	Ameda Pearl	Ameda Platinum	Spectra S3 Pro
Pump Type	Hospital-grade, multi-user	Hospital-grade, multi-user	Hospital-grade, multi-user
Power Source	AC + rechargeable battery	AC only (plug-in)	AC + rechargeable battery
Suction Range	Up to ~250 mmHg	Up to ~250 mmHg	Up to ~270 mmHg
Cycle Speed	Stimulation: ~80–120 CPM Expression: ~30–48 CPM	Adjustable speed, ~30–80 CPM	Adjustable, up to ~70 CPM
Modes/ Adjustability	Stimulation & expression; customizable settings	Fully adjustable vacuum & speed	Adjustable suction & cycles
Closed System	Yes	Yes	Yes
Portability	Portable due to internal battery	Least portable; plug in	Portable due to internal battery
Noise Level	Moderate	Moderate	Relatively quiet
Durability/Use Intensity	For frequent clinical and rental use	Heavy-duty clinical workhorse	For hospital and high-use settings
Typical Use Settings	Hospital, clinic, rental, home use	Hospital, NICU, rental	Hospital, clinic, rental, transitional home use
Available Flange Sizes	25mm, 28.5mm, 30.5mm Inserts: 11mm–21mm	25mm, 28.5mm, 30.5mm Inserts: 11mm–21mm	16mm, 20mm, 24mm, 28mm, 32mm

---

An important detail to consider is the availability of flange sizes for these pumps.  Ameda has very few flange sizes, but does offer flange inserts to help reduce the flange size as needed.  Spectra offers flange sizes 16mm-32mm without having to use an insert. Warranty is another consideration. The Ameda Pearl and Ameda Platinum carry a 3 year warranty on pump mechanism while the Spectra S3 Pro offers a 2 year warranty.

Summary

Ameda Platinum

• The most traditional hospital/NICU workhorse

• Plug-in only (no battery)

• Excellent for continuous, high-volume clinical use

• Often chosen for NICUs and long-term rentals

• 3 year limited warranty

Ameda Pearl

• Hospital-grade performance with added portability

• Internal rechargeable battery

• Good balance between clinical strength and flexibility

• Suitable for clinics or parents needing occasional portability

• 3 year limited warranty

Spectra S3 Pro

• Strong hospital-grade suction with Spectra’s comfort-focused design

• Internal rechargeable battery

• Closed system with intuitive controls

• Often preferred for comfort-oriented users transitioning between hospital and home

• More flange sizes available without using inserts

• 2 year limited warranty

Depending on your needs, any of these three pumps are exceptional choices for your corporate lactation or clinical needs.   Available at Lactation Connection.

Here's to productive purchasing,

Tanya

Relactation Protocols for Bringing Back Milk Supply

If you are considering relactation, your foundation for success is frequent, effective milk removal.  And the good news is that your breasts have made milk previously and mammary tissue and prolactin (milk producing hormone) receptors are established. It can take time to re-establish milk supply so be ready to put the effort in for the length of time that it has been since you last nursed.  For example if it has been two weeks, you may be able to relactate in as little as two weeks.  If it has been two months, it may take that long.  However, the protocols below may help expedite this process.

Protocols

• Frequent pumping or nursing (8–12x/day, including overnight when prolactin levels are highest)

• Latch your baby on if possible.  Feeding tubes allow you to supplement your baby at breast until milk comes in.

• Get skin to skin with your baby often as it increases oxytocin (milk ejection hormone)

Lactation Aids

• A high quality electric breast pump such as a Spectra S1 or S2; wearable are not as effective

• Lactation Aid Feeding Tubes can help keep baby to the breast for assistance with keeping the baby at breast to boost oxytocin for better let-down

• Supplements can be used to help, but will not work without adequate stimulation and extraction

Medications & Supplements

• Motherlove More Milk Plus - Tried and true herbal supplement containing goat's rue and fenugreek. Fenugreek is not recommended if you have diabetes, hypoglycemia, or PCOS subtypes sensitive to glucose shifts.

• Legendairy Milk Liquid Gold - Combination herbal supplement with goat's rue, milk thistle, shatavari, fennel, alfalfa and anise. Not recommended for mothers with SLE disease, plant allergies associated with ingredients listed.  May lower blood sugar.

• Metoclopramide (Reglan):
  Prescription only. Used occasionally, short-term, and cautiously. Evidence for meaningful volume increase is mixed, and side-effect risk limits routine use.

Manage Expectations

Frequent, effective removal of milk by baby or high quality double electric breast pump is essential.  Pack your tenacity as you will need to keep this up 8-12 times per day and include night feeding or pumping until milk supply is well established. Be prepared that volume increases gradually over weeks and manage your expectations. While a comprehensive study* shows that 79% of moms were successful at being able to resume breastfeeding, full milk supply may not always be reached. Some moms were only able to produce 25-50% milk supply, but every ounce counts for the health of your baby.

Hang in there mama!

Tanya

References:

*Matern Child Nutr. 2022 Oct 12;19(1):e13440. doi: 10.1111/mcn.13440

J Trop Pediatr. 1997 Aug;43(4):213-6. doi: 10.1093/tropej/43.4.21

PCOS - PMOS Breastfeeding Protocols

If you have been diagnosed with PCOS aka Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in the past, it is now been renamed to PMOS to encompass the endocrine and metabolic system.  As you may have experienced maintaining milk supply requires intensive milk extraction due to risks of delayed milk "coming in" and potential hormonal interference from insulin resistance and/or high androgens. To endeavor to get milk to come in and keep your milk supply, below are some protocols that may help.

Immediate Postpartum Protocols

Colostrum Collection: With the permission of your doctor or midwife, collect colostrum after 36-37 weeks.  Especially in high risk pregnancies, it is essential to be cleared prior to expression.

Early Initiation: Start nursing or hand expression within the first hour of birth.

Frequent Removal: Breastfeed on demand or use a hospital-grade pump at least 8–12 times every 24 hours (roughly every 2–3 hours).

Night Feedings:  Pitocin levels are the highest between 12pm-5am, so don't take advantage of nursing or pumping twice during those hours..

Antenatal Expression: Begin expressing colostrum at 38 weeks (with medical approval as it may cause contractions) to "wake up" breast tissue and build a supply before birth.

Avoid Early Supplementation: Unless medically necessary, avoid formula in the first few days to maximize biological stimulation of the breast. 

Skin to Skin Contact: Even if pumping, use skin to skin contact with baby to boost oxytocin which aids with let-down. 

 Advanced Extraction Techniques

Breast Pump & Flange Selection: Make sure to use a good double electric breast pump, not a wearable and measure for correct flange size to use.  A wearable breast pump should only be used on occasion.

Triple Feeding: If the baby cannot latch effectively, nursing is followed by 10–15 minutes of pumping on each breast to ensure thorough drainage.

Hands-On Pumping: Use a hands-free bra and perform breast massage while pumping to increase milk output by as much as 48%.

Power Pumping: Simulate cluster feeding once a day for several days by pumping for 20 minutes, resting for 10, pumping for 10, resting for 10, and pumping for 10.

Night Pumping: Prolactin levels are highest between midnight and 5 a.m.; ensure at least one extraction session occurs during this window. 

Metabolic & Hormonal Management

Insulin Sensitivity: High insulin can block milk synthesis. Manage this through a low-glycemic index diet and, if prescribed, continuing Metformin, which is considered safe during lactation.

Galactagogues: Certain herbs like Goat’s Rue (which supports insulin sensitivity) and Moringa may be more effective for PCOS-related supply issues than traditional herbs like Fenugreek.

Stress Management: High cortisol from stress can trigger androgen spikes that inhibit milk flow. Use skin-to-skin contact (Kangaroo care) to boost oxytocin and lower cortisol. 

Non-insulin Resistant PCOS

Following the immediate post-partum protocols and advanced extraction techniques is essential.  Poor prolactin response could be the culprit of low milk supply additional pumping especially between 12pm-1am and switch nursing (moving baby back and forth between breasts every 5 minutes) may be helpful.

Lifestyle, diet and weight management can help regulate hormones.  

Some find Myo-inositol and Vitamin D supplements helpful. Vitamin D dosage in prenatal vitamins is often 400-600IU/day which is insufficient.  Recommended dosage is 1000-2000IU/day to begin with upper level dosage at 4000IU/day.

Recommended Support

Prenatal Consultation: Meet with an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) before birth to assess breast development (checking for Insufficient Glandular Tissue) and create a custom plan.

Weight Monitoring: Frequent weight checks for the infant in the first two weeks are critical to ensure they are transferring enough milk despite potential PCOS-related delays. 

Having PCOS does not mean you are unable to breastfeed, but it does pose challenges and milk supply may wain even with your best efforts.  The initial colostrum is your baby's first immunization and any breastmilk is liquid gold for you baby's health. Don't be discouraged if your milk supply is not like the next moms.  Your tenacity and effort to give your baby the best is what counts.

Every ounce counts,

Tanya

Are Lansinoh Glass Bottles Lead-Free?

Lansinoh glass bottles are a great option when needing a larger than 5-6 oz wide mouth bottle in glass for your infant.  There was some question about three years ago as to whether the paint on the logo was lead-free.  This type of information stays on the internet forever, so we wanted to clear things up.  

Lansinoh changed their logo in 2023 and sources from Lansinoh recently stated to Lactation Connection in writing that the bottles contain no lead so you can be assured that they are now lead-free aka Pb-free if you are purchasing the Lansinoh 8oz Glass Bottles with the new logo.

We would not recommend buying older bottles with the older oval logo shown above out of an abundance of caution.  Above is an image of the older logos along with the dates of use by Lansinoh.  Below are images of the new glass bottles and where you can purchase to be assured you are receiving only the new style. 

Lactation Connection as a company prides itself on sending you what is pictured so as another example if you are buying Spectra bottles two-pack you will see pictured the new beige cap style which is what you are being sent or the Spectra pink logo bottle singles which are also always sent as pictured.  The pink logo bottles are being discontinued so the pink Spectra bottles will only be available while supplies last.

Here's to finding the feeding supplies you need,

Tanya

How to Express More Milk with your Spectra Breast Pump

At Lactation Connection, we are frequently asked which setting mom should use on the popular Spectra S1 and S2 breast pump to get the most milk.  While settings are important, flange size is equally important.

Your goal with your Spectra flange size is to engage the milk sinuses which are located an inch behind the nipple.  So it is really important that the flange allows the nipple to move freely without drawing in too much tissue.  You can use the guide below or a silicone nipple measuring tool.

What about the settings?  Cycle pumping is recommended by Spectra when using the S1 or S2. Below is the procedure to start using the Spectra pump effectively.

      Cycle 70 (Massage Mode) for 5 minutes 

      Cycle 54 (Expression Mode) for 5 minutes 

      Cycle 70 (Massage Mode) for 5 minutes 

      Cycle 38 (Expression Mode) for 5 minutes 

Some moms leave their pump on higher setting, but know that the Expression Mode (38 cycles per minute) is very effective at draining the breast and relieving clogged milk ducts.

In addition, relaxed pumping is best. You first need realistic expectations of how much you should be getting when you pump.  After the initial week postpartum, you should only expect what your baby needs.  To determine this amount, take your baby's weight and multiply by 2.5.  Then divide by 8 feedings.  This is the amount you are looking to pump in total from both breasts.  For example, a 10lb baby x 2/5 + 25oz ÷ 8 is 2.5 oz.  So you may get one once on one breast and perhaps an ounce and a half on the other.

Effective tools for relaxation to aid with let-down include the following:

1.  Once you position the breast shields, don't watch the bottles!

2.  Look at your baby or baby's picture.

3.  Wrap a swaddling blanket around your neck so you can smell the baby.  

4.  Relax your shoulders.  Hold the breast flanges in a c-hold at the flanges instead of by the bottles so you can drop your elbows and relax your shoulders.

5.  Make sure you are comfortable.  Use a short stool if needed to bring your lap up and keep you from leaning too far forward and straining your back.  Pumpin' Pal angled flanges are excellent for keeping you from leaning forward and are a real back-saver!

Best wishes for an abundant pumping session!

Tanya

Ninni Co Breast-like Pacifier Review

While I did not dissuade the use of pacifiers for breastfed babies in the past, I had never found one that I could fully endorse.  Now, after 32 years serving nursing mothers, I feel confident in giving the Ninni Co pacifier my full endorsement.  As a retired International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, I love the graduated shape, the breast-like soft feel, the breathable shield and the view into the baby’s mouth for suck assessment.  This pacifier is not only recommended by lactation consultants for nursing babies to transition between breast and bottle more easily, but it has also been recommended for use in suck training and oral motor development in pediatric feeding therapy. 

Why is the Ninni pacifier so highly recommended?

1. This breast-like super soft medical grade silicone pacifier mimics the tissue of the breast which encourages baby to create strong suction and a vacuum effect similar to breastfeeding.

2. For proper use, baby’s mouth needs to open wide and remain open while using their tongue to suck in a natural peristaltic wave unlike other pacier styles which encourage a pursed mouth and chomping.

3. This breast-like pacifier can be used as a training tool to help babies with oral dysfunction develop a more effective suck technique. It’s great for post-op rehab for tongue ties and cheek ties or a disorganized suck.

Here's to more natural suckling,

Tanya

Spectra Replacement Parts Best Practices

Below are the top 5 questions I get from moms about their breast pump parts so I thought I would share the answers with you.

1.  How often do I replace my breast pump parts?

While most parts are replaced as needed when they age or if you need a new size flange, some parts are essential to replace on a regular basis.  For example, if you are pumping for work three times a day, replace your valves every 4-6 weeks and diaphragms or backflow protectors every 8-12 weeks to prevent your aging breast pump parts to reduce your suction and your milk supply. Valves should be checked to make sure that they close properly.  This is not just a visual check when they are at rest since new valves can have a slight openin. To check them properly, squeeze the sides of the tip between your thumb and index finger and the end should close for a moment when you release it.  

2.  Is it ok to buy off-brand breast pump parts? 

Absolutely not.  Each pump manufacturer tests their pumps for optimal suction with the parts they design and manufacture.  If you change anything from the valve to the backflow or even the tubing, it will change the mmHg (miligrams of mercury) which is how suction is measured.  Anything less than optimal suction can affect your milk supply. To give you an example, below are images of the Spectra valves  and "valves for Spectra pumps" created by after-market companies.  You can see by the underside that they are in no way the same and therefore the suction can in no way be the same!

Even the length of the tubing can change the suction on your breast pump so we encourage moms to only purchase original manufacturer's parts.  They can be expensive on the manufacturer's website, but Lactation Connection offers discounted prices on premium brand name parts. And you certainly don't want to buy from Amazon whose "free shipping" is actually tacked onto the price and if you read the reviews you will see where moms have received used items that have been returned and resold.

The one caviat to the rule of only using original parts is when it comes to flanges.  If Spectra does not make the flange size you need or you prefer a silicone flange for small nipples or an angled flange for larger nipples, it is acceptible to buy Pumpin' Pal with MayMom adapter as they fits exactly with the parts that create the suction including the tubing (without adding an aftermarket adapter), the valves and the backflow protectors or diaphragms so your suction will not be affected.

3.  How do I clean my breast pump parts?

Use the manufacture's instructions but as a general rule, you only sterilize the parts that come into contact with the milk. Using a steam sterilizer is the best way.  The microwave steam sterilizer bags are really convenient and unlike boiling water, it is unlikely you will overheat and warp or cloud your pump parts.

4.  Is it ok to use pre-owned breast pump parts?

Again, absolutely not. Yeast naturally occurrs in our bodies, but overgrowth of yeast can cause nipple pain, pass an oral yeast infection called thrush to babies and even be the reason moms terminate breastfeeding early.  Yeast cannnot be killed by sterilization and it harbors in microscopic scratches on plastic pump parts so it is imperative that you do not share breast pump parts just as you would not want to share a toothbrush.

5.  How do I find the parts I need?

Below is a Spectra replacement parts diagram.  I will list the item numbers for genuine Spectra parts and links for your convenience.

1. Spectra bottle

MM011909 Spectra Bottles - 2 Pack

2. Spectra valve

MM012388 Spectra Duckbill Valves - 2 Pack

3.  Spectra flange available in sizes 16mm, 20mm, 24mm, 28mm and 32mm

MM012716-S Spectra 16mm Flange - Single

MM012753-S Spectra 20mm Flange - Single

MM012302-S Spectra 24mm Flange - Single

MM012319-S Spectra 28mm Flange - Single

MM012326-S Spectra 32mm Flange - Single

4. Spectra backflow protector

MM011992 Spectra Backflow Protector - Single

5. Spectra tubing

MM012401 Spectra Tubing - Single

Best wishes for keeping the milk flowing!

Tanya

Preventing Breastfeeding Roadblocks: Finding a Pro Breastfeeding Pediatrician

 

There are some roadblocks to breastfeeding than come up often when moms are in the hospital or at their first pediatrician visits.  Depending on a mom's personality some are good advocates for themselves, but a lot of moms just go along with what they are told without questioning.  Often even if the pediatrician is pro-breastfeeding, a staff member will give you a biased opinion of what needs to be done in a certain situation.  While there are times supplementing with formula is helpful, often it is not necessary and depending on how the supplementation is done can hinder breastfeeding success.  

Common scenarios that present barriers to breastfeeding are listed here including science-based evidence for this information in case you need to pass it along to any health professionals who may disagree so that you be your baby’s advocate. 

1. The baby has low blood sugar.

The high protein content of colostrum helps with glucose stabilization and promotion of ketogenesis which is as effective as formula supplementation.

https://www.jognn.org/article/S0884-2175(15)31316-2/fulltext

2. The baby has jaundice.

There is a difference between breastfeeding jaundice and physiological jaundice.  Physiological jaundice appears within the first few days and can be a normal result of an immature liver which is not removing bilirubin quickly enough.  Colostrum is an effective treatment because it helps the baby pass meconium, the first stool, which removes excess bilirubin from their body.

The cause of breastfeeding jaundice is unknown, but it is most likely related to infrequent feedings. It does not usually present itself until after the first week of life.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537334/ 

Phototherapy is common protocol to treat jaundice.

3. The baby is big and “needs” supplemental formula.

Birth weight can increase the stomach capacity,  but supplementation, especially without expression hinders the mature milk from coming in on time.

The defense is a good offense.  Initiate the first feeding within 30 minutes of birth because after the first 1-2 hours baby goes into rest mode and is difficult to feed well for the next 8-12 hours, but any attempts at suckling will help stimulate milk production.  Approximately 5ml to 10ml is the typical colostrum feeding in the first 24 hours of life so if the baby is larger, it is important to feed more frequently than 2-3 hours as normally recommended.  Studies show that babies can metabolize up to 20ml per hour and since colostrum comes in approximately 5ml teaspoons, feeding every hour is beneficial. Mature milk normally comes in between the 3-5 day postpartum so frequent feedings can help the mature milk to come in on the earlier end of this range and help offset the big baby syndrome.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23662739/

4. The baby has lost too much weight and “needs” supplementation.

Typically, the baby’s first pediatrician’s appointment is on day 5-6.  It is normal for breastfed babies to lose 7-10% of their birthweight as the mature milk does not come in until day 3-5 and moms and babies are learning how to breastfeed.  Formula babies only typically lose 3-5% of weight since larger amounts than are necessary are often fed and bottle nipples drip formula into the baby’s mouth without effort. Not putting formula standards on breastfed babies can prevent unnecessary supplementation which can interfere with breastfeeding success.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536449/

  

It is beneficial when interviewing a pediatrician to tactfully get a feel for how quickly they recommend supplementation. 

Here are some sample questions:

 

I understand some jaundice is common, do you recommend pumping and feeding the baby colostrum or formula?

 

Is low blood sugar a reason I would have to supplement formula instead of colostrum?

 

When is the follow up visit scheduled after birth?

 

How much weight is ok for my baby to lose the first week while I am breastfeeding?

 

How the pediatrician answers these questions may help you determine how pro-breastfeeding they are.  It is more difficult to determine how pro-breastfeeding their staff is without being a patience, but if at any time you get advice from a doctor’s staff that seems contradictory to the doctor’s values, don’t hesitate to ask for a phone call from the pediatrician in person.

 

That being said, sometimes supplementation is necessary but sometimes moms are bullied into supplementing even when not necessary.  If either is the case, it is important to stand firm on not using a bottle nipple to supplement.  A 10cc slip tip syringe can be used to finger feed the baby easily and this method keeps the baby’s tongue in a good position for breastfeeding.  In addition, it is easier to slow the pace of the feeding with a syringe which keeps baby on track with moms increasing milk production instead of exceeding her production where she is always playing catch-up.

Here's to all the pro-breastfeeding pediatricians and nurses out there!  They do exist!

Tanya

Getting the Most Out of Your Spectra Breast Pump: Massage Mode vs Expression Mode:

Spectra is an industry leader in breast pumps and if you have the option to getting a Spectra breast pump, whether it is through insurance or private pay, it is a great investment.  These pumps are high quality, offer high output, exceptional warranty service and offer a wide variety of accessories to make your pumping life easier.

One of the best things you can do when you get your breast pump is to familliarize yourself with the control panel.  The one pictured below is for the Spectra S1, but the only difference between the control panel on the blue  Spectra S1 and the pink Spectra S2 is that on the S2 you will not see the battery life indicator in the top right section of the LED display since the S1 offers a rechargeable battery whereas the S2 is powered only by electricity. The green S3 Pro intented for hospitals, clinics or corporate lactation offers the same control panel as well.

 

 Of course, you will want to start with the on button located in the middle bottom of the panel.  After that, I will take you from left to right explaining the function and features of each button.  On the far left is your cycle control with plus and minus buttons to go up or down in speed.  The speed in the breast pump industry is often referred to as CPM (cycles per minute).  The Spectra S1 and S2 have 5 speed levels.  Level one will be 38pm and level 5 will be 54 cpm.  The average baby does about 48 sucks per minute when they are in an effective nursing rhythm.  In addition, babies nurse at a faster speed of about 70 sucks per minute when they are initiating a let-down which bring us to the top middle button that looks like it is a wave or as I like to refer to it as a white river.  This is the massage mode which automatically sets your pump to 70 cpm to help initiate let-down.  This button should be turned on after you are sure your flanges are centered on the nipples at the beginning of the pumping and used again anytime the milk slows and you would like to initiate another let-down.  Press the button again to go back to expression mode.  This is the best course of use rather than using the massage mode all the time.  You will want to simulate a typical nursing experience with your breast pump as a baby will not sustain 70 cpm the entire nursing and you want the massage mode to be effective when you choose to use it.

To the right of the massage buttom, you will find the plus and minus buttons to use for vacuum.  The strength of vacuum is measure in millimeters of mercury which you will see written as mmHg. There are 12 levels of vacuum pressure for the Spectra S1 and S2 breast pump in expression mode ranging from 50 mmHg to 270 mmHg.  In massage or let-down mode, there are 5 ranging from 50 mmHg to 200mmHg.

As an additional feature, there is a light button on the control panel for night pumping.  This button has two settings which when pushed once is on high and when pushed a second time, it is a lower light setting.

As a side note, the front of the pump has two ports where the tubing is to be attached, but if you would like to empty on breast, the Spectra air cap port cover which is also connected there can be used to close off one port for single pumping.

Get ready for pumping success by getting to know your Spectra breast pump! Make sure to sterilize your breast shields, valves, and bottles; the tubing and backflow protectors are for air and backflow protection so do not come into contact with the breastmilk and do not need to be sterilized.

Plan for your breast pump maintenance by having in stock replacement valves and backflow protectors.  These two parts affect your breast pump suction so if you want to get accurate vacuum and effective milk extraction, take care of your breast pump parts.  

Pro Pumping Tip:  Don't use bristle bottle brushes as these can scratch, damage and harbor yeast.  Instead use a silicone bottle brush when cleaning these parts.   

Expressly yours,

Tanya

Lactation Consultant: Tips on Locating, Hiring and Getting the Most from your Breastfeeding Consultation

One of the questions we are often asked is how do I find a lactation consultant near me?  And does insurance cover the consultation?

Those are two great questions and we have answers for you as well as tips on how to hire your IBCLC and what questions you should ask in the process.

1.  Use an up-to-date lactation consultant locator.  The ones on the international board of lactation consultant examiners is often outdated as many lactation consultants aren't in private practice and don't do home visits.  Lactation Connection hosts a free locator on their website and it is up to date for 2024 with lactation consulants who have personally provided their current contact information and service areas.

2.  Speaking of information, that should be your first question when you speak to a lactation consultant. Below are some examples of what to ask.

    What are your credentials?  There is a vast difference between an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) who is board certified and required to have 90 hours of lactation education and 1000 hours of clinical experience with mothers and babies and a CLE (certified lactation educator) which is a breastfeeding specialist with a 20 hour training course. And most often the cost of your visit will vary by credentials and experience of the consultant or educator.

    How long have you been practicing? This question can be followed by a specific concern you may have if it is a unique issue such as a baby with downs syndrome, etc.  I would not ask if your consultant can help you with latch or other common issues because if she could not, she would not be in the profession.

    Do you take insurance?  Be specific with your insurance company when asking this question.  And if the answer is no, follow up with how much the home or office visit is per hour and if there is a minimum hourly requirement for their services.

3.  Other things you will want to confirm are listed below:

    Home or office visit? Some lactation consultants come to your home, while other prefer an office visit.  Office visits are usually less expensive but home visits can be more beneficial especially if the issue is one of latch as you want to get positioned correctly on your own furniture.  The height of the arm rests of your chair or footstool can be a factor in being comfortable while breastfeeding which reduces stress and can fascility a calm environment while acheiving a proper latch.

    What about a virtual visit? If you are in an area that does not have a lactation consultant near you, this can be somewhat helpful but you will want to make sure that your consultant has visual tools that can help you during your video call such as breast and baby anotomically correct models.  It is also helpful to let her know in advance if you have a specific breast pump or specific nursing pillow.

    Language barriers? Many consultants who offer virtual visits will state that they ofter them nationwide or even worldwide.  The worldwide statement is a red flag because they need to be multi-lingual to be able to offer worldwide service.  If your first language is Spanish for example, you may want to hire an IBCLC who is truly bilingual in Spanish to get the most out of your visit. 

4.  What should you expect during a consult? You should expect a very professional visit.  A board certified lactation consultant is there to help you get the most out of your breastfeeding journey.  She will wear gloves and ask permission before touching you or your baby.  If you can, the tips below will help you get the most out of your visit:

    Ask questions! No question you might have is unimportant.

    Include a person you trust at the visit.  Your partner, mother or friend can be instrumental in helping you take notes or offering a helping hand with things they also learned at the visit.

    Get instruction on nursing and pumping. A quality breast pump can be a very effective tool with drawing out inverted nipples, increasing milk supply and reliveing engorgement when used properly.

Here's to hoping for the best start to a long and healthy breastfeeding journey,

Tanya

Pack Your Hospital Bag

 

 

Packing your hospital back should be quick and easy with this list.  

We have curated most of what you need in just one place!  Shop for your dual purpose hospital bag, nursing bras, nursing covers, nursing pad and breast cream here. 

Another thing you might want to do is to put your breast pump in your vehicle in case you need it!

Best wishes for a safe and healthy birth!

Tanya

Spectra Bottles: Spectra Pink & Gold Bottles + New Ivory Design

Big news: Spectra is making changes to their bottles!  

As inventory rolls over, all Spectra products will begin featuring a new bottle to replace the pink and gold ones.  The new bottle features an easier to grip and easier to read design as well as a gender neutral ivory colored collar, sealing disc and cap.  So if you have a boy, and you are using the bottles for feeding, going from pink to ivory is a bonus!  

The wider base is very helpful to prevent tipping and crying over spilled milk, but they will not fit in the bottle holder; if you were unsure, that is what the round hole on the S1 and S2 was for.  Since it only held a single bottle, most moms weren't using it anyway.  Lactation Connection offers a Dual Dock Double Bottle Holder that is specifically designed to hold all Spectra bottles including the new ivory design!

The new ivory bottle design is compatible with all Spectra breast shield flanges!

The bad news is that if you love the Spectra gold logo bottles with the white collar, they are being discontinued which means if you want those, you need to buy them up fast.  You can always see what bottles are currently available for breast milk storage and feeding here.

Beware, because unlike Lactation Connection, most companies do not update their product images like we do.  When you buy from us, we pride ourselves on keeping our images up to date.  And if we have a change that we could not predict, we contact you before we ship! Breastmilk Bandit's Dual Dock Bottle Holder acommodates two Spectra bottles and tames your tubing as well!  Unique design will securely hold the new ivory bottles as well as the pink and white gold bottles. The new double bottle holder is available in blue and white. Pink is coming soon!

So far, the Spectra pink bottles can still purchased separately for breastmilk storage and feeding separately.  But again, if you are purchasing a premium accessory kit from anyone other than Lactation Connection, you may not receive the bottles you think you are getting in the kit or even if you are purchasing a new Spectra breast pump.  View our selection of breast pumps for up to date images.

If you have questions about any of our products, there is a link to click on each product detail page like the one pictured here: 

Just go the product on our website that you have a question about, and you will find the option to ask a question on the product page!  We are happy to help!

Here's to storing your breast milk your way!

Tanya