Name of the Procedure:

Breast Pump, Manual, Any Type
Common name(s): Manual Breast Pump
Technical or medical term: E0602

Summary

A manual breast pump is a device used by breastfeeding mothers to extract milk from their breasts. Unlike electric pumps, it operates through manual hand pressure. It is portable, affordable, and convenient for occasional use.

Purpose

Manual breast pumps are used to help nursing mothers manage breastfeeding. They may be needed to:

• Relieve engorgement.
• Maintain or increase milk supply.
• Collect milk for feeding when the mother is away.
• Assist in feeding premature or ill babies who cannot nurse directly.

Indications

Specific symptoms or conditions that warrant the use of a manual breast pump include:

• Painful engorgement.
• The need for milk expression when away from the baby.
• To stimulate milk production when milk supply is low.
• Conditions like mastitis where direct breastfeeding is difficult.

Preparation

No extensive preparation is required for the use of a manual breast pump. However, it is good practice to:

• Wash hands thoroughly.
• Sterilize the pump components if using it for the first time, or clean it with warm, soapy water.

Procedure Description

1. Assemble the Pump: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembling the components of the manual breast pump.
2. Position the Pump: Place the flange over the nipple ensuring a good seal.
3. Begin Pumping: Compress the handle rhythmically to create suction and express milk.
4. Switch Breasts: After milk flow decreases, switch to the other breast if needed.
5. Collect and Store Milk: Collect the expressed milk in a clean container and store it as per guidelines.

Tools used include the manual breast pump consisting of a flange, handle, and collection container. No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The time required to express milk can vary. Typically, it takes about 15-30 minutes to pump both breasts.

Setting

Manual breast pumps can be used at home or any comfortable, clean environment. They are highly portable, allowing use in multiple settings.

Personnel

The procedure is self-administered by the nursing mother. No additional healthcare personnel are involved.

Risks and Complications

Risks associated with the use of manual breast pumps are minimal but can include:

• Nipple soreness or damage from improper use.
• Mastitis if the pump components are not cleaned properly.
• In rare cases, reduced milk supply with improper use.

Benefits

The benefits of using a manual breast pump are:

• Relief from engorgement.
• Maintenance of milk supply.
• Flexibility to feed the baby with expressed milk.
• Portability and ease of use. Benefits are often realized immediately as milk expression helps relieve symptoms.

Recovery

No significant recovery is required. However, follow these post-use care instructions:

• Clean the pump thoroughly after each use.
• Store expressed milk safely.
• Monitor for any breast or nipple discomfort and consult with a healthcare provider if issues arise.

Alternatives

Alternative options to a manual breast pump include:

• Electric breast pumps.
• Breastfeeding directly.
• Hand expression.
• Use of breast milk substitutes (formula). Electric pumps might be more efficient for frequent pumping, while hand expression requires no equipment.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel a gentle pulling sensation on the breast as milk is expressed. Proper flange fit and rhythmic pumping can enhance comfort. Post-procedure, the patient might feel relief from engorgement. Any soreness can generally be managed with nipple cream or cold compresses.