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9. Using the One-Hand Breast Pump
The One-Hand Breast Pump allows a mother to comfortably control both cycling (rhythm or speed) and suction with a single hand.
Position your hand grip as high as possible on the pump handle.
Now, simply squeeze the handle with enough force to create a comfortable, effective suction level. You may not need to squeeze the handle all the way to start the milk flow, so
experiment. We recommend you start pumping with a series of short, rapid rhythmic squeezes.
Starting the Milk Flow
Position the breast flange against your breast so that the nipple is aligned to extend straight toward the nipple tunnel of the breast flange. Make sure the breast completely
fills the breast flange so that a vacuum is formed and no air escapes. Tilt the nipple tunnel slightly downward to allow the milk to flow naturally toward the bottle. Gently
squeeze and release the handle in a comfortable, rhythmic motion. We suggest squeezing at intervals of about 1 - 1/2 seconds until let-down occurs and the milk flows freely.
(Let-down is the release of milk into the milk ducts. When it occurs, some women experience a tingling or burning sensation.)
This phase is similar to that of a baby who begins nursing by suckling about 40 times a minute to start the milk flowing.
Squeeze and Hold Technique
Once the mild starts to flow, let the pump and your body work together. Continue to squeeze the handle at a comfortable level of pressure and hold it; try not to release it.
The pump will gradually release the suction over several seconds.
Occasionally when the milk flow is strongest, the pump neck will fill quickly with milk even before the pump has release the suction. Before the milk reaches the base of
the nipple tunnel, release the handle quickly and the milk will drip into the bottle.
The squeeze-and-hold method eventually will allow you to reduce the pumping action from about 40 times per minute to 10 times per minute.
As the pump automatically releases pressure during the hold phase, the nipple relaxes and the milk sinuses refill in readiness for the next squeeze. Release, squeeze and
hold again. The action of squeeze and hold is similar to your nursing baby. Once the milk begins to flow the suckling action is longer and more drawn out, not the rapid
pattern of the first few minutes.
To Restimulate Milk Flow
When milk flow begins to slow down, a minute or two of short, rapid squeezing motions will increase the milk flow.
Flexibility
The handle of the One-Hand pump swivels, allowing you to hold the pump at a comfortable angle and reposition it at any time while pumping, The pump's flexibility allows you to
hold the pump with either hand on either breast and even switch hands during pumping. There is no reason to stop the pumping process while making these adjustments.
Pumping Options
Pumping one breast while nursing the baby on the other allows you to learn while pumping. You're maximizing the pump's effectiveness by using the let-down reflex generated
by the baby's sucking action.
Pumping both breasts manually at the same time using two pumps allows you to pump in half the time. It stimulates and maintains the milk supply.
Pumping into any screw-top baby bottle or plastic nurser bag provides flexibility and time savings. See the section
Attaching the Ameda Freezer Bag.
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Troubleshooting the One-Hand Pump
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Problem:
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Milk does not drip into the collection bottle.
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Answer:
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Release the handle and the milk will begin to drip into the bottle.
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Problem:
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Milk flow is too rapid for the pump to handle.
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Answer:
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Release the handle a few extra times.
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Problem:
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The pump does not seem to have enough suction.
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Answer:
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Check the white valve. If it has a tear or hole, it needs to be replaced. Contact us to purchase additional spare valves.
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Problem:
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Suction has diminished.
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Answer:
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Remove the piston seal and stretch the outer lip using the fingers and thumbs, or place the seal open side down on a flat surface
and push down on it. Repeat twice. Reassemble the pump. Suction should be restored and you can continue pumping.
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