Using a Lansinoh breast pump effectively focuses on proper setup and a precise pumping technique, particularly with flange placement, to ensure efficient and comfortable milk expression.
1. Getting Started with Your Lansinoh Breast Pump
Before you begin pumping, a few preparatory steps will help ensure a smooth and hygienic experience:
- Hygiene First: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling pump parts or your breasts.
- Assemble Your Pump: Refer to your specific Lansinoh pump's manual for detailed assembly instructions. Typically, this involves connecting the flange to the breast pump body, attaching the valve and membrane, and screwing on the milk collection bottle.
- Find Your Comfort Zone: Choose a quiet, comfortable, and private space where you can relax. Relaxation is key to milk let-down.
2. Pumping Technique for Optimal Milk Flow
The core of effective pumping with a Lansinoh breast pump lies in how you position the flange and manage the vacuum.
Proper Flange Placement is Key
For efficient and comfortable milk expression, the correct placement of the flange (the cone-like part that goes on your breast) is crucial:
- Center Your Nipple: When positioning the flange, center your nipple within the flange tunnel. It should move freely without rubbing against the sides.
- Achieve a Full Seal: It is essential that your breast completely fills the flange opening to form a proper vacuum seal. This vacuum is what gently draws milk from your breast.
- Optimize Milk Flow: Once the flange is securely in place and the pump is active, tilt the tunnel slightly downward. This angle allows the expressed milk to flow naturally and directly into the collection bottle below, preventing pooling or backflow.
Addressing Vacuum Issues
A strong and consistent vacuum is vital for effective pumping. If you experience difficulty achieving or maintaining suction:
- Check Flange Fit: A common reason for poor vacuum is an ill-fitting flange. If you cannot achieve or maintain a consistent vacuum, it's a strong indication that you may need a different size flange. Lansinoh offers various flange sizes to ensure a comfortable and effective fit for every mother. A correctly sized flange ensures your nipple moves freely and the breast tissue is gently drawn into the tunnel.
- Inspect Parts: Ensure all pump parts are correctly assembled, and there are no tears or damage to membranes or tubing that could compromise the vacuum.
3. Tips for a Successful Pumping Session
- Relaxation: Stress can inhibit milk flow. Try deep breathing, listening to music, or looking at a picture of your baby.
- Patience: It may take a few minutes for milk to start flowing. Don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results.
- Duration: Pump until your breasts feel empty or milk flow significantly slows. This typically takes 15-20 minutes per breast.
