When Do You Need to See a B...
content
At MomMed, we care about our breast pumping mothers. Sometimes we can't always get to the root of your breast pumping concerns. In our continuing effort to help you, we enlisted the expert help of Crystal Nelson, the founder of Save The Milk, a Breast Pumping Consultant, and inventor of several breast pumping products compatible with our MomMed wearable pumps.  
 

What are the most common issues pumping moms have?

Pain 

Many mothers may think the pump they selected is not best suited for them because they have pain when using it. Lowering the suction will likely result in not emptying properly. 

Not able to empty 

Other pumping mothers may think their pump is not best suited for them because they cannot empty their breasts. They may spend the money to purchase another pump and face the same issues.  
  

Blisters and cuts 

Mothers that still need to pump and have not found a solution for the causes listed may further irritate their nipples, causing friction blisters and minor cuts.   
If these situations sound like the ones you are in now, there is a solution: Flange sizing.  
Since 2002, Crystal has dealt with these experiences herself and knows she is not alone. She discovered that flange sizing was the solution to most breast pumping issues. In 2021, she created the Nipple Queen Ruler, an accurate way for moms to size themselves for their correct flange or insert products.
  

One size does not fit all

We understand the standard sizes of flanges and inserts provided may not work for every nipple. Flange sizing is one of the most important boxes to check if and when your nipples hurt or if you cannot empty your breasts. MomMed provides a 24mm flange size and optional insert sizes of 21mm, 19mm, and 17mm. Crystal offers compatible Pumping Pretty Inserts sizes 15mm and 13mm for those needing smaller.  
 

What if you sized down, purchased different products, and still had issues? 

As much as we wish breast pumping were as easy as 1-2-3, some moms may need extra help. Mothers could be dealing with other issues like elastic, flat, or inverted nipples, insufficient glandular tissue, and mastitis, to name a few. Speaking to a breast pumping consultant like Crystal from Save The Milk, who offers virtual appointments, and a breast pumping course, would be best.  
 
 

Can I see a Breast Pump Consultant before I start pumping? 

Yes. If you intend to breast pump at the hospital, Crystal recommends setting up a virtual appointment two weeks before your due date or sooner if you are at risk for preterm labor. If you don't feel comfortable seeing someone virtually, Save The Milk offers a convenient, at your own pace, breast pumping course that comes with the Nipple Queen Ruler.  
 

Conclusion 

If you don't have any breast pumping knowledge, are a new mom, or have started pumping and are having issues with comfort and being able to empty your breasts, we recommend you see a Breast Pumping Consultant. They will walk you through every possible breast pumping issue you may have. Mastering breast pumping takes time; it shouldn't take away the time spent with your baby; reach out to Crystal at Save The Milk for the solutions to your pumping problems.

Leave a comment

Please note: comments must be approved before they are published.