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For many moms dealing with breastfeeding, pumping is an important part of their journey. Unfortunately, too many new mothers have to deal with a number of challenges when it comes to their breast pumps, which is frustrating and worrisome. In this article, we consider some common reasons why pumping may not be working as one may want and provide simple solutions so that you get back on track as soon as possible.
How Does a Breast Pump Machine Work?
A breast pump is a helpful device for breastfeeding mothers to extract the milk from their breasts, either for immediate feeding or for storage. It usually has a motor (for electric pumps) or a hand-operated mechanism (for manual pumps), along with suction cups fitting over the nipples and containers to store the milk. When you use the pump, it creates a vacuum that mimics how a baby sucks, pulling the milk out.
Most pumps let you adjust the suction strength and speed to find what feels most comfortable for you. Electric breast pumps are generally quicker and easier, though manual pumps are great for when you need something portable. When you are done pumping, it's highly important to really clean all the parts well. This keeps things hygienic and your pump effective every time it is used.
5 Reasons Why Your Pumping Is Not Working
Though we understand how a breast pump works, not everything goes as we expect it to be. Let's discuss below five common reasons why your pumping not working, so you can get the issue resolved quicker.
Reason 1: Incorrect Use of the Breast Pump
Using a breast pump may be easy, but little things forgotten or done wrong can make all the difference. Here are some common mistakes:
- No Batteries: For a battery-operated pump, ensure its batteries are charged. Because when the battery life is finished, the pump fails to operate.
- Wrong Assembling: Sometimes while hurried to pump, parts may not assemble correctly. All items must be fixed firmly and placed properly; a missing single part can make the whole system unworkable.
- Wrong Settings: Each pump varies slightly in its setting for speed and suction. Pumping too frequently after delivery or having too short sessions might influence milk production. Take some time to learn your pump, and go through its manual to understand how to optimize the settings for your body.
- Applying the Pump Incorrectly: Ensure that there is no gap between your breast and the pump flange. A tight seal is quite important in creating suction, or you will find it hard to express milk.
Reason 2: Breast Pump Parts Need Adjustments
Even if you're operating your pump as it should be, worn or misaligned parts can seriously affect its performance. Common problems to watch for include the following:
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Wrong Size Flange: The flange (the part that fits over your nipple) being too big or too small, will never create a nice seal to create a better way of pulling out milk. For proper sizing, measure your nipples correctly.
- Old Pump Parts That Need Replacement: Also, your pump seals and gaskets wear with time, probably allowing air to leak in, thus reducing the suction power. These parts should be replaced right away to maintain good performance.
- Moisture or Dirty Breast Pump Parts: Milk can leave a residue in your pump and block its parts that impact suction. If you feel the suction isn't as good as it used to be, it could be due to blocked tubing. Check the tubing often. After each use, wash all the parts thoroughly and let them dry well.
Reason 3: Breast Pump Malfunction
Sometimes, the problem might be with the breast pump itself. Mechanical malfunction can result in ineffective pumping:
- Motor malfunction: In a breast pump, the motor produces the required suction. Observe it if it makes any kind of weird sounds or lack of response after being switched on.
- Damaged Accessories: With time, the valves or the membranes will get brittle. Make it a routine to inspect them for cracks or whatever other forms of damage that may reduce efficiency.
Reason 4: Improper Breast Pump
Successful pumping begins with choosing an appropriate breast pump. If you happen to pick a model that does not offer enough suction power, you may encounter issues like one side of the breast pump not working well. Here are some simple things to consider:
- Suction Strength: Get a pump that will allow you to adjust the suction strength. That way, you can find what feels comfortable for you and helps in extracting more milk. For example, Momcozy M9 breast pump is equipped with the 3rd-gen pump motor offers powerful suction up to -300mmHg to increase milk output, and 15 suction levels allowing you to choose the most suitable suction settings.
- Multi-Mode: Some pumps have different modes that mimic the sucking of the baby. A good pump would provide a let-down mode, which helps to get the milk quickly and then takes over with a steady pumping mode for better extraction.
- Flange Size & Structure: Make sure the pump offers different flange sizes or extra sizes can be bought. Taking a closer look at what size flange you are using is important for a good seal so you can get the most milk possible. Furthermore, the flange's structure and material significantly impact milk yield. For instance, the Momcozy M9 features the DoubleFit™ Flange, combining soft silicone for a comfortable breast seal and rigid silicone to minimize leaks. This design enhances pumping efficiency by 28.2% and leak-proof performance by 10%, according to Momcozy research.
Reason 5: Health and Emotional Factors
Sometimes, even if your breast pump is functioning well, health issues or emotional factors can contribute to why your breast pump is not suctioning effectively as you pump.
- Health Issues: Conditions like hormonal imbalances, stress, or other physical concerns may prevent you from producing enough milk.
- Anxiety When Pumping: Many mothers feel anxious or stressed while pumping, which can interfere with the let-down reflex and make it harder to express milk.
If you feel uncomfortable while pumping, try to create an environment that soothes your soul. You may listen to soft music or practice some relaxation techniques. This will make your pumping space more pleasant and may help improve the milk flow.
Troubleshooting and Solutions for Pumping Not Working
If you've noticed any of the issues mentioned above affecting your pumping experience, here we'll take Momcozy M9 as an example, to offer some practical steps you can take to troubleshoot.
Problem 1: Startup Issue
- Power Check: If your breast pump is not working at all, first ensure your breast pump is powered. Momcozy M9 is battery operated, so test the batteries or plug it in if applicable.
- Status of Indicator Lights: Observe if the indicator lights are functioning. If they don't light up, it could signal an electrical issue.
Problem 2: No Suction
If the breast pump is not suctioning, to test suction, first, turn the M9 on and switch it to the working mode. Momentarily cover the main unit air outlet with your finger. If no suction is felt, the motor may be damaged and in need of service.
Problem 3: Low Suction Power
For increasing suction power, follow these steps:
- Check Assembly: Go back to the user manual and ensure that all parts are assembled correctly.
- Wear the Breast Pumps Properly: The flange should fit snugly over your breast without any gaps. A proper fitting bra can keep the pump in the right place to realize better suction.
- Flange Fit: Use a nipple ruler to determine the correct flange size. The nipple should be centered in the flange for optimal results.
- Check Worn Accessories: Check silicone parts and replace when any signs of wear are evident. Normally these need to be changed every three months.
- Increase Suction Level: If your breast pump offers this option. You can raise the suction level from low to higher to see what works best for you.
- Confirm Milk Let-Down: If milk isn't flowing, try pumping for a longer period. Remember that let-down times vary from person to person, so it may take longer for some women than others.
Problem 4: The Pump Can't be Turned Off
To turn the breast pump off, press the On/Off/Pause button. If the device still stays on, you need to break the vacuum seal. You can do so by placing your finger between the pump flange and your breast tissue. Then, press the power button again.
Problem 5: The Pump Abruptly Stops
By design, the breast pump automatically turns off after 30 minutes of continuous use. This could be the reason why your pump stopped. Press the power button to turn the device on to continue pumping. Please note that the pump will turn off again after 30 minutes.
Problem 6: Wet Charger or Pump
- The Pump/Charger Got Wet: If the pump gets wet, wipe it down right away. Place it upright with the charging port facing downward and leave it to air out. Wait for a full day before using it again.
- The Pump Got Immersed in Water: Avoid plugging in or operating the pump or charger after water exposure. If this happens, reach out to customer support for help.
Problem 7: Charging Issues
Suppose your breast pump is not charging. The cause might be a connection problem. Check the USB Type-C cable. It should be plugged all the way into both the charger and the pump's charging port. Test to see if that has fixed the problem. If the pump is still not charging, the charger may be damaged and need a replacement.
Problem 8: No Milk Flow
Suppose the pump is working, but there is no milk flow. Like with a baby, who needs to latch properly, correct positioning is required to make the pump work. Turn the pump for a moment. Then, confirm that your nipple is in the middle of the flange tunnel. Furthermore, firmly press the pump against your breast. Turn the pump on again.
Problem 9: Pain or Discomfort While Pumping
Several factors could cause pain or discomfort while pumping. You can relieve it by:
- Correct positioning - Your nipple should be in the middle of the flange tunnel. Also, you must keep the breast pump close to your breast, so you need to secure your bra. Use a pumping bra if possible.
- Adjust the settings - Lower the suction strength if pumping causes pain. Continue adjusting until you find the configuration that feels comfortable.
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Stop pumping - Long pumping sessions can also cause pain or discomfort. If the pump shuts down suddenly, it means you have been doing it for 30 continuous minutes. Consider it a sign that you have to stop.
Mastering Your Breast Pump Experience
Although pumping can present certain difficulties, you can greatly enhance your experience by learning the causes of these problems along with how to resolve them. If issues persist even after attempting these solutions, speaking with a lactation consultant or healthcare professional for individualized guidance may be beneficial.
