1.) Why is breastmilk important to my baby?

Breastmilk contains all the important nutrients and antibodies for a baby to thrive well. Breastmilk also helps the baby to build up his own immune system. There is no other nourishment which has the specific contents for a newborn. For this reason, the World Health Organization (WHO), midwives and lactation consultants as well as pediatricians all recommend that babies should be nourished exclusively with breastmilk during the first 6 months after they are born. Ideally, if possible, to their first year.

2.) What are the benefits of breastfeeding for mothers?

Breastfeeding provides close physical contact for an ideal relationship between mother and child. Research shows that breastfeeding benefits the health of mothers, like the quicker return of uterus to pre-pregnancy size with minimal bleeding etc. From 3 months to 12 months postpartum, breastfeeding increases the rate of weight loss in most nursing mothers. Breastfeeding also saves time, costs and waste.

3.) I’m worried of inadequate milk supply?

Concern over low milk supply is the number one reason mothers give for discontinuing breastfeeding. The first few weeks after giving birth are a critical time for establishing the milk supply. The milk supply will also be affected if engorgement is not relieved or if the baby is not breastfeeding often enough. Early and frequent breastfeeding/pumping helps to establish a good milk production.  Low milk supply generally improves with more rest, improved diet, reduction of stress, and improved management of lactation. Breastpump will be recommended as breast pumping is often suggested to re-stimulate the milk supply.

4.)Why should I be advised to use a breastpump instead of direct breastfeeding?

Although a breastpump is not intended to replace breastfeeding, it is a useful tool in some situations where breastfeeding problems exist, and can complement a mother’s breastfeeding experience. Breastpumping also helps to relieve engorgement or ensures that her breasts receive the stimulation needed to induce or increase milk production. Occasionally, when the mother is not with the baby, a breastpump allows her to express milk so that her breastfeeding pattern is not interrupted.

5.) My friend has passed her used breastpump to me, can I just purchase the necessary kit and use her breastpump instead?

A retail breastpump is a personal care item and it should never be shared with other mothers. Using or borrowing a used retail breastpump is unsafe and unhygienic even when using a new kit. Only hospital-grade breastpumps are designed in such a way that the milk never touches the working parts of the pump so it can be shared with other mothers. Hospital-grade breastpumps are used in hospitals and are available for use in home, usually on a rental basis.

6.) What is 2-Phase Expression®?

Studies have shown that babies change the way they suckle at a mother’s breast during breastfeeding by nursing in two phases: Initially, they suckle fast and light to stimulate the milk ejection reflex and induce milk . This phase is referred to as <>. Once the breast has been sufficiently stimulated, milk begins flowing and the baby settles into a slower, more relaxed sucking for the actual feeding phase. This phase is call <>.  It is an exclusive pumping program that more closely mimics a baby’s nursing rhythm by pumping in two distinct modes. It consists of a Stimulation mode and an Expression mode- just like real breastfeeding. The unique combination of a rapid stimulation and slower expression makes pumping especially gentle, comfortable and efficient. In this case, our rental model that comes with 2-Phase Expression Technology will be Symphony.

7.) What is Bisphenol-A (BPA)? Do Medela Breastmilk bottles or other products contain BPA?

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is an industrial chemical used in the production of polycarbonate plastics. Polycarbonate plastic is commonly used to make consumer products. This type of plastic is clear and shatter-proof.  Medela breastmilk bottles and all our products that come in contact with breastmilk are and always have been 100 percent BPA-Free. Medela breastmilk bottles, storage containers, feeding products and breast pump kits are made with polypropylene. All existing research maintains that polypropylene is safe. 

8.) How long would I need to take for the milk supply to be established?

Establishing good breastfeeding practices in the first days is critical to the health of the infant and to breastfeeding success. It is important to begin using a breast pump to provide stimulation as soon as possible after the birth of your baby especially when baby is asleep or mother is away from the baby. Frequent stimulation is crucial to establishing a good supply. Usually within the first week or two, you should see your milk supply start to increase. You may find that you become engorged frequently. Frequent pumping is the best way to combat this.

9.) Is it easy to use the breastpump?

Yes, our breastpumps are user friendly. However, before using a breastpump for the first time, please read and follow the instruction for use. Wash your hands before you start and find a comfortable place to express your milk.  The breastshield (the part of the pump that is shaped like a funnel) should closely surround your nipple but leave enough space so your nipple is not rubbing against the wall of the shield. Your nipple should be centered in the shield.  To find your maximum comfort level, always start from the minimum and gradually increase the strength and start pumping at the highest suction level you feel comfortable with. Massage your breasts before and occasionally during pumping to encourage your let-down and milk flow. Milk expression should never be painful. If you feel some pain, immediately interrupt the pump session and seek for advice. Remember, it is easier to express your milk if you are relaxed. For more information, please refer to the useful tips.