Keeping up with your pump maintenance and its importance.

Almost every mother I work with is utilizing a breast pump to some extent. Regardless if it is for the rare date night or exclusive use, it is important to maintain your pump in order to ensure optimal function and efficient milk removal. One key aspect of this maintenance is regularly replacing the duck bills or membranes. Each pump comes with its own type, for instance the spectra comes with duck bills and Medela comes with membranes.

You can also interchange these, meaning you can use duck bills in replacement of membranes. Generally, duck bills are easier and in my practice more preferred.

Duck bills are a single part while membranes are a plastic insert with a thin piece of often silicone that is the “membrane.”

These small parts play a significant role in the performance of your breast pump, and not replacing them can lead to reduced milk output and increased frustration.

Signs That It’s Time to Replace

It’s important to recognize the signs that your duck bills and membranes need replacing. Some common indicators include:

1. Decreased Suction: If you notice that your pump is not creating as much suction as it used to, this is often a sign that the duck bills or membranes are worn out.

2. Visible Wear and Tear: Inspect these parts regularly for any signs of stretching, tearing, or warping. Even small imperfections can affect performance.

3. Reduced Milk Output: If you find that you’re expressing less milk than usual, despite maintaining your pumping schedule and technique, worn out parts might be the culprit.

General replacement recommendations

The frequency with which you should replace duck bills and membranes depends on how often you use your breast pump.

Exclusively Pumping: If you are exclusively pumping, it’s recommended to replace duck bills and membranes every 2-3 weeks. The frequent use puts more strain on these components, causing them to wear out faster.

Occasional Pumpers: For mothers who pump only occasionally, replacing these parts every 2-3 months is typically sufficient. However, it’s still important to regularly inspect them for any signs of wear and replace them as needed.

Tips for Maintaining Pump Parts

To extend the life of your duck bills and membranes and ensure optimal pumping performance, consider the following:

• After each use, clean the parts thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using harsh detergents that can degrade the silicone.

• Make it a habit to visually inspect duck bills and membranes for any signs of wear each time you clean them.

• Keep spare parts on hand so that you can quickly replace them when needed without interrupting your pumping routine.

• Always refer to your pump’s user manual for specific cleaning and replacement recommendations.
  

Whether you’re exclusively pumping or only doing so occasionally, keeping these components in good working condition will help you maintain a healthy milk supply and reduce frustration.