I'm feeling pain or discomfort while pumping

Try getting into a relaxed, mindful state before pumping to help your milk flow smoothly and lower your stress level for a more comfortable experience.

You can find a quiet location to pump, with comfortable seating that allows you to sit upright for easy milk expression.

Adding personal touches to the environment, such as mood lighting and playing relaxing music, is also great.

If you’re using our Philips Avent Hands-free Electric Breast Pump, you may feel like getting up and being more active at first. However, we still recommend sitting in a relaxing environment until you get used to pumping regularly for the best milk production.

It is also important to ensure that your breasts are properly stimulated before pumping. Try warming your breast with a hot towel and massaging it to stimulate the areola so it is completely unblocked and ready for expression.

Also, make sure you go through your pump’s full stimulation mode cycle when you start pumping help your milk flow freely.

Lower the suction level manually on the motor unit until you find the highest comfortable level at which you can pump without feeling pain or discomfort for more efficient milk production.

Also, check your breasts and nipples between nursing and pumping sessions and take time to care for them. After pumping and breastfeeding, try soothing your nipples with nipple cream. Use breast pads or shells between pumping and feedings to keep your nipples dry and avoid chaffing.

And always remember to listen to your body. If you’re still experiencing pain and discomfort, stop using the pump and talk to a healthcare professional.

Check whether you’re using the correct breast shield or insert size. Using a shield or insert that is too large or small can cause pain or discomfort.

If your shields or inserts don’t fit, stop using the pump and go to philips.com/support or contact the Philips Consumer Care Center in your country to purchase the correct size.

For more information on fit and sizing, search for our “How do I choose the correct breast shield/nipple insert size?” article on this website.