Hellobee Boards

I didn't know how to use my pump in the beginning, but once I started noticing my letdowns, I figured it out. So, I start with the rapid suction, and once I feel the letdown (or see the milk is coming out in a greater volume), I hit the button. I let it go until the milk slows, then hit it again to bring back the faster suction. I have very low supply though, so another full supply mom might be able to answer.

Have you changed your pump membranes lately? They should be changed every 6 weeks or so to ensure good suction. I also found that the Ameda duck bill ones worked so much better. They do fit on the Medela flanges (you use them instead of the whole yellow piece).

@Mrs. Jump Rope: Usually double pumping is better because it boosts prolactin. I couldn't EVER do it when trying to use a bra. When I awkwardly held both with my hands, it seemed to work.

@littlejoy: I figured, but then I can't massage... So what's a girl to do?!

Are you sure you are using the right flange size? I had to experiment until I got the right size and my output really got better. I also pumped for close to 30 min because I got a second letdown around 21 min. Was a pain.

@Mrs. Jump Rope: have you not had any luck doing massage with the pumping bra?

@regberadaisy: Yep. The whole yellow piece comes off and the duck bill piece fits onto the flange. Mamas in my low supply group have had much success with these, and they got me through my last 3 months of pumping.

@MamaG: I use two different flanges too. Much more comfortable

I use the let down button until I feel the letdown come. I usually only get 2-3 oz MAX out of each boob (I only pump one side at a time). But, like @Mrs. Jump Rope: said, distraction works best for me.

I use the letdown button first and once I have letdown I push the button to go slower. I never go back to the letdown mode.

I just let it pump until it starts to slow a bit and I start doing compressions. After I can't really get any more out I just let it run until about the 20min mark and then I readjust my nipples in the flange to get a "new" sensation and that usually causes my other letdowns.

It's like after a while I don't feel as good of suction or my nipples feel numb to it so changing their positioning brings enough stimulation for 2nd letdown. I also turn up the suction a little bit at this time. Once that letdown starts to slow I also do compressions. I need a 2nd letdown to get mine empty! I have to pump for up to 30 min BTW. I let it run at least a few minutes after milk stops to encourage mine to keep up production.

To me the letdown mode feels shallower and not enough strength as the regular mode so I don't get 2nd letdowns from going back to the letdown mode.