Winnie writes:

"I have never understood this argument, other than the fact that it comes
from the competing manufacturer.  Since the pump "sucks" rather than "blows"
through the tubing, how can organisms be "blown" through the tubing into the
collection bottle?"

The argument that the Medela tubing can possibly transmit tiny milk droplets
into the tubing and down to the diaphragm has been discussed by many IBCLCs.
Including Barbara Wilson- Clay, who works for Medela. I personally have
talked to several IBCLCs who opened up the diaphragm cap on a very used PIS
and found mold, bacteria, etc.  From what I understand about the Medela
tubing, it circulates outside air into the bottle and flange area and tubing
as mom is using it. This may be why some IBCLCs are seeing condensation in
the Symphony tubing. Theoretically, it could recirculate on the next use
even down into the bottle, I don't know if there is "proof" of this. Yet,
many IBCLCs have had moms ask how to clean that brand of tubing because
there is "stuff" inside it.

The Ameda brand keeps only a certain amount of air inside the bottle and
flange from what was in it before mom begins to pump. Air can go out but not
in as mom is pumping. This is what the competition calls "the dead air."
That argument is one I have never understood, how does air "die"? Once she
removed the flange and bottle from her breast, I am sure new room air can
intermix inside it but nothing from the tubing can do so.

I was given this citation for bacteria being found in the tubing of breast
pumps (Moloney, A.C. et al. A bacteriological examination of breast pumps. J
Hosp Infect 1987; 9:169-74).

Ok, for the person who wanted to know about why sterilize new pump parts. If
the manufacturer says it needs to be sterilized before the first use, as
IBCLCs we take their word for it and give those recommendations. I would
guess it is a precaution.

I am not bashing nor promoting any product. I have no financial interests in 
either company.

Hope this clears up the muddy water a little bit! Kathy Eng, BSW, IBCLC

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