> ------------------------------
>
> Date:    Fri, 9 Mar 2001 17:19:00 -0500
> From:    Diane Wiessinger <[log in to unmask]>
> Subject: home-made hands-free bra
>
> >It's surely been mentioned before, but I know several employed mothers
> >who have found Medela's "hands-free" double-pumping adaptor to be very
> >useful.  These require a special bra, with an arrangement of hooks and
> >rubber-bands to hold the flange in place (it looks like a torture device
> >in the picture.)  I don't know if other manufacturers have similar
> >products, or if such a device works equally well on different sizes and
> >shapes of breasts.
>
> It may also work to buy a sports bra - if she wants to put it on over her
> other clothing she can buy one that zips up the front - and cut two holes
> for the flanges, using ordinary scissors.

I have found that the simplest, easiest way to pump 'hands-free' is to use two
small rubber bands, or better yet, elastic hairbands ('ponytail holders') looped
together in a 'figure of eight'.  One half of the figure of eight then loops
around the flange and the other hooks onto the hook for the nursing bra flap.
The mom can push her shirt down on top to help hold it all in place better.  It's
not as sturdy or stable as the Medela system, but it only costs about ten cents
and it really does work great.  I have pumped this way for four years and do all
sorts of office work, etc, while pumping.  I've told numerous patients and
friends about it and they too, have had good success.  I don't suppose you could
walk around pumping like with Diane's sports bra idea, but it is super handy, and
works great with no special purchases/clothing and negligible expense.  I would
suggest it to pumping moms.  Anything that makes their job easier is welcome.

-Catharine Decker, MD

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