Hand pump love

[Ashley&Scott]

You control the speed & suction. Don't pump so fast, especially if it hurts - long, slow pumps are just as effective as short, quick pumps. Also apply some nipple butter before you pjmp to reduce friction.

[Deleted]

There's a reason that most people use an electric pump most of the time. It's the exception that some women like it better for every day use, not the rule.

[shelbyann]

I squeeze and hold for a couple of seconds, which drains a lot of milk out. I've never had any pain though. I'm sure this is one of those things where everyone's nips are different.

[Ashley&Scott]

Jan 16, 2015 9:13:44 GMT -5 shelbyann said:

I squeeze and hold for a couple of seconds, which drains a lot of milk out. I've never had any pain though. I'm sure this is one of those things where everyone's nips are different.

Yep, this is what I meant by long, slow pumps vs. short, quick pumps. 

[Deleted]

Also, make sure the flange is the right size for you. I never had the right size with DS, and when I figured it out with DD it made a huge difference to comfort and output.

www.ameda.com/breast-pumping/getting-started/flange-fit

[Deleted]

Jan 16, 2015 9:15:10 GMT -5 Ashley&Scott said:

Jan 16, 2015 9:13:44 GMT -5 shelbyann said:

I squeeze and hold for a couple of seconds, which drains a lot of milk out. I've never had any pain though. I'm sure this is one of those things where everyone's nips are different.

Yep, this is what I meant by long, slow pumps vs. short, quick pumps. 

Ditto all this.

This is my third baby and I just 'found' the manual pump through reading some positive reviews on this board.

I'm one of the lucky ones that can get more faster with my manual Medela than I did with an electric. I even used the hospital grade pump and still responded better to the manual. Note: I'm a SAHM so don't pump regularly.

[catbus]

I also don't have, um, especially sensitive nipples, so I never had pain with it and just found it easier and more effective for quick sessions, usually to relieve fullness in one side. I didn't like using it for a regular pumping session, mostly because my letdown was very eager and if both sides were full, starting to pump one without pumping the other simultaneously caused quite a mess.

[VillainV]

When I use my hand pump, I do five pumps then rest a second, ten five more and pause, etc. helps with hand fatigue:-)