Milk collection cups

What to do with breast milk losses during feedings

While feeding your baby, you may notice that the other breast is losing milk. This type of breast milk loss affects many mothers, some more than others! However, milk leakage is normal, especially during the first six weeks;1 this doesn't necessarily mean you have too much milk. But if you think you may be oversupplied, read our expert advice for more information. Meanwhile, milk collection cups can help you.

What are breast milk collection cups?

Milk collection cups are placed over the nipple to collect breast milk losses, so that not a drop of your milk is lost during feedings. Medela milk collection cups are made with materials suitable for your skin and the shape of your body, which makes their use comfortable and discreet.

When should milk collection cups be used?

You can use the milk collection cups during feedings to collect milk losses as described above, and also between feedings to avoid moisture stains. You just have to remember to remove them every two to three hours and let your breasts air dry, as this prevents any excess moisture from damaging your nipples. And avoid using milk collection cups in bed at night, as this can cause skin sensitivity. Instead, you can use disposable nursing pads to absorb heavy milk leaks, or Ultra Thin disposable absorbent pads if your flow is smaller.

How to use Medela milk collection cups

You must assemble the two parts of the milk collection cups before use. It's a simple task:

The soft and flexible silicone membrane is designed to be gentle on the skin. Place it on the outside of the glass, securing it around it.

After assembly, place the milk collection cup inside the bra, with the membrane opening centered over the nipple. Its practical opening should be oriented upwards.

It is advisable to use a nursing bra with the milk collection cups. It usually has more space than a normal bra, which means that the cups put less pressure on the breasts.

How to use collected breast milk

You should only use breast milk collected during feedings to feed your baby. You must discard the milk collected between feedings. When removing the milk collection cup, lean forward slightly. Next, use the cup's special pouring hole to transfer the breast milk collected during feeding to a sanitized container, such as a breast milk bottle or storage bag. If you are not going to give this milk to your baby immediately, put the container directly in the refrigerator and use the milk within 24 hours.

How to clean Medela milk collection cups

It is important to keep breastfeeding accessories clean, and this includes breast milk collection cups. Before first use, and once a day thereafter, disinfect the milk collection cups as follows:

Separate the pieces and place them in a small saucepan with cold distilled water. If you don't have distilled water, add a teaspoon of citric acid to tap water to prevent lime deposits from forming.

Boil the water with the milk collection cups for five minutes.

Remove the water carefully and let the pieces dry on a clean cloth.

It is also important to clean the milk collection cups after each use. Separate the pieces and wash them with a mild detergent. Next, rinse them well with cold water and let them dry on a clean cloth. Both the outer cup and the inner membrane are dishwasher safe, so you can also use this cleaning method, or you can use a microwave-safe bag.

Features

• They adjust flexibly to the shape of the chest
• They prevent the appearance of wet spots, even with abundant milk flows
• Its soft silicone provides a feeling of comfort on the delicate skin of the chest
• Its practical opening makes emptying easier
• BPA (bisphenol A) free