Making on-the-go pumping more comfy! Your Milkdrop breast pump will allow you to express milk to feed your baby without the pain and discomfort.

1. Plug me in and charge me up, using only the charger that comes in this kit.
2. Wash all the plastic and silicone parts (nothing with electronics in it) in hot, soapy water. Then put all the parts that will come into contact with your breasts and milk into boiling water for about 5 minutes.
3. Check your instruction manual for how the bits fit together, including some nifty diagrams.

Before you get started, it can help to know that everyone is different, especially when it comes to pumping. We’ll give you a place to start, but if you’re just not feeling it, that’s okay too! You might be someone who gets a letdown in 3 seconds, or it might take 3 minutes (or longer), and if in doubt, reach out to your lactation professional or your doctor.

1. Wash your hands
2. Align your nipple in the centre of the silicone shield and press the silicone shield firmly against your breast with no gaps.
3. Press the power button, choose your mode, and away you go!
4. When you're done, carefully remove the pump from your breast and keep it upright so you don't spill any milk.

Here are some things you can do to make your next pump more comfy:

• Some studies have found that warmth can help with letdown and milk flow. Try warming your breast before pumping with a heat pack to encourage milk flow, or try warming your Milkdrop cushion to 39C (102F).
• Massage can also increase milk flow. You can try a lactation massager, making sure to to use the low setting and just vibrate the surface (no deep tissue massage) to avoid injury.
• Try a Milkdrop breast pump cushion. They’re made from ultra-soft silicone, 10x softer than the plastic breast shield and are designed to mimic a baby’s suck which can feel more natural.
• Looking to build you milk supply? Some studies show higher volumes are collected from “double pumping” both breasts at the same time, rather than one at a time. They also show that pumping for shorter durations (e.g. 10-20 minutes) more frequently (every 2-3 hours) produces more milk overall than longer pump sessions less frequently.
• If you’re able to, spending time with your baby suckling on your breast skin-to-skin has many benefits beyond “nutritional feeding”.

Make sure you follow the FDA guidelines on cleaning your pump and pump parts:

1. Rinse each piece that comes into contact with breast milk in cool water as soon as possible after pumping.
2. Wash each piece separately using liquid dishwashing soap and plenty of warm water.
3. Rinse each piece thoroughly with hot water for 10-15 seconds.
4. Place the pieces neatly on a clean paper towel or in a clean drying rack and allow them to air dry.

• Don’t share me. I’m a one-person gal (or guy).
• Water and I don’t mix. Don’t use me in the bath.
• Keep me away from kids.
• If you feel pain, stop! Check with your lactation consultant or healthcare professional.

Breastfeeding and pumping is a very personal thing, and everyone's body is different. Our advice? If you're struggling, have questions or just want to chat to someone, visit your lactation or health professional.

Read more about how to find a great lactation consultant here.