Mellanie -

If the pump hurts while on low suction, make sure the speed of the pump is
not too slow.  The PNS pumps manufactured over the last few years have speed
adjustments.  The "5" speed for a standard PNS or Expression phase for an
Advance PNS should be most comfortable.

If there has been damage to the nipple/areola previously, the PNS might be
too Jerky and the smoother action of a larger motor might be a good
temporary fix.

Check flange size.  One that is too large or too small can cause trauma as
well.  The change in flange should be at or just behind the spot where you
can best hand express.  If you cannot hand express, position the change in
flange at about the same place baby's gums would go with the best milk
transfer.  Obviously this would be a "centered" latch with a pump rather
than the off-center that you would use for the baby.  Looking at the bottom
jaw placement should help.

I have recently had a mom with very dry skin that could only pump
comfortably if the flange was lubricated.  Olive oil worked best for her and
we tried everything else because she had a preemie and I did not want any
contaminants in the milk.  We were to the point of formula if we could not
get more milk though.

Linda Pohl, IBCLC & recovering engineer

P.S.  Re:  "Formula is just as good."  Best snide comment I can think of is
"Then why do you suppose the formula companies are trying to make it closer
to human milk?"

             ***********************************************

To temporarily stop your subscription: set lactnet nomail
To start it again: set lactnet mail (or digest)
To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
All commands go to [log in to unmask]

The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(R)
mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html