According
to researchers, babies’ instinctual sucking switches between a first and second
phase to optimize the milk output from a mother’s breast.[1]
The first
phase is termed the Stimulation Phase,
with the purpose of “stimulating” the breast for output. When a baby first
attaches to his mother’s breast he will suck with a faster pace and quicker
intensity to pull the nipple out and commence the milk flow.
Once this
stimulation is rewarded with milk flow, a baby switches to the second phase,
termed the Expression Phase. During
this phase, the “letdown” has occurred, milk is flowing to her (or more
precisely, being “expressed” by her) and she sucks with a slower but deeper
rhythm.
Pumps
designed with a 2-Phase system are generally programmed with a brief
preliminary “Stimulation Phase” (approximately two minutes) during which the
pull mimics a baby’s quicker, “stimulating” suckling, followed by a longer,
deeper second “Expression” phase.
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Byram
Healthcare offers a variety of breast pumps to suit the differing needs and
preferences of discerning mothers. Here’s a quick rundown of the models and
their respective “2-Phase” systems or accommodations.
Medela leads the
breast pumping industry in dual phase technology. The Medela Pump In Style Advanced provides “2-Phase Expression technology with one-touch let-down button” that is shown to
“produce more milk in less time when pumping at Maximum Comfort Vacuum in the
expression phase.”[2]
The
Spectra 9 Plus Advanced also features a 2-phase system, termed the “letdown” (or
massage) and “expression” modes.
The Ameda Purely Yours
Ultra does not feature
pre-programmed “Stimulation” and “Expression” phases. However, with two
separate controls for speed and suction you can determine and regulate these
different phases manually.
The Freemie Freedom Hands
Free pump does not feature
pre-programmed “Stimulation” and “Expression” phases. However, it provides a
sensitive power dial allowing the user to incrementally personalize the suction
power throughout a pumping session.
The Hygeia Q Model does not feature a
pre-programmed “Stimulation” and “Expression” phases. However, like the
previously mentioned Ameda model, this breast pump features separate dials for
speed and suction, allowing a mother to determine her two phases manually.
Every woman’s preferences vary hence the variation in the pumps we offer through Byram Healthcare. Whether you opt for a breast pump with a designated two-phase system or one with more manual control, it’s helpful to know the biology of the two phases and pump accordingly.
Always begin a pumping session with a faster pace and quicker intensity to “stimulate” “letdown.” At the end of a pumping session as you notice the milk expression has ceased, you might experiment from time to time by switching back to a “stimulation”-like phase. It’s quite common for moms to experience a second “letdown” and collect more milk, if properly “stimulated.”[3]
*This blog is informed by our resident moms-in-the-know and not by medical professionals. This blog is intended to share the wisdom of experienced moms but never to replace the advice and insight of your doctors. Always consult proper and licensed medical professionals when making any decisions about your health and the health of your children.
Sources
www.medelabreastfeedingus.com
www.thebreastfeedingcenter.com
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