Medela Lactina Breastpump
Lactina Breastpumps have established themselves as a rugged and reliable workhorse in situations where the mother has to do frequent pumping, and that too, over a long period of time. Resistant to wear and tear, this product has been a favorite with hospitals for a long time. Lightweight and portable, the mother can carry the equipment to her workplace with ease.
Medela has introduced two models within the Lactina brand - one is called the "Lactina Select", and the other, "Lactina Plus". Both the models have their characteristic features, and the mother can select one that suits her needs.
A standard electric 110V outlet is all that is required to run the pump. While travelling in a vehicle, the Lactina can be powered using a Vehicle Lighter Adapter also. An optional PowerPak battery provides pumping time of up to one hour. The PowerPak should ideally be fully recharged overnight after every one hour of use.
However, if neither powersupply nor battery is available, Lactina can be operated manually, too! All that one has to do, is to simply remove the cylinder / piston assembly from the power supply and the pump connector. From the back of the breastshield, take away the tubing, and in its place, tightly screw the cylinder / piston assembly. Hey presto! A manual breastpump is ready!
The pumps come with the option of single-breast or simultaneous double-breast pumping. Research has proved that simultaneous double-breast pumping increases the lactation stimulation hormones in the mother's body, which leads to the breasts getting full with higher frequency.
Before assembling the kit for the first time, and before every usage, it is advisable to wash one's hands thoroughly, in order to prevent contamination. Before beginning pumping, the vacuum regulator should be set to minimum. The nipples should be placed exactly in the center of the breastshields. In case the nipples are smaller than the size expected by the breastshield, appropriate inserts may be placed in the shield. Once the pumping begins, the vacuum levels may be increased gradually, till such time that it is comfortable to do so.
Sometimes, after pumping is over, condensation appears in the tubing. To eliminate this condensation, let the pump run on its own, without any let down. This causes dry air to flow through the tubing and dries it up. At other times, milk appears in the tubing. When this happens, the pump should be turned off, and if it is connected to a powersupply, the plug should be removed. The tubing, pump connector, piston and cylinder should be disassembled. All these parts should be washed in soapy water and then rinsed in cold clear water. Let the parts dry in the air for some time.
The piston assembly of the kit is very crucial, and regular care of the same needs to be taken. The inside of the cylinder should be checked every now and then for any signs of mineral deposits having built up. These deposits, if left unchecked, may wear out the rubber seal over a period of time. Cleaning the cylinder with slightly warm water or a diluted vinegar-water solution eliminates these nasty chemicals. In order to evenly wear the rubber seal, the piston in the cylinder should be rotated often. The life of the rubber seal and the vacuum regulator ring is prolonged by washing them with warm soapy water.
In case of any discomfort while operating the Lactina, it is advisable to immediately stop the pump, and contact a lactation expert. It is quite possible that the breastshield does not fit correctly, or the inserts are proving inadequate. Whatever be the reason, consulting people who are in the know well in advance, ensures that your pumping experience is enjoyable for both you and the child!