What Is a Haakaa Breast Pump & How To Use it

By Taya Griffin, IBCLC.  Taya Griffin is a Lactation Consultant in the Toronto area with 14 years of experience helping parents achieve their own unique nursing goals.  She adores teaching Oona’s Prenatal Breastfeeding Class and supporting breast / chestfeeding parents along their journey.  

What Is a Haakaa Breastfeeding Pump?

There are many silicone pumps on the market but the Haakaa was one of the first.  This type of pump is a single piece of silicone that attaches to the breast with suction and may be a useful tool along your nursing journey.  Here is a little of what I’ve seen as beneficial in my practice as a lactation consultant and also something to be careful of.

First, I do want to mention that some breastfeeding parents may never need to pump.  You may feel pressured to purchase a fancy electric pump or may have received one of those handy dandies (and strange-looking – if this is your first baby!) silicone contraptions at your baby shower but neither are truly necessary.   Mothers can breastfeed for years without ever pumping.  However, there are many situations when pumping is necessary or desired and using a silicone pump can be a convenient and inexpensive way to do so.  

How To Use A Haakaa Breast Pump

Silicone Pumps

When not to use the Silicone Pump

In my practice, I see many nursing parents using the silicone pump incorrectly.  While it is marketed to place on one side as you are nursing from the other we want to avoid this practice.  Most babies tend to need to feed from both sides (and sometimes from many more).  When we place the silicone pump on the second side, while we are nursing from the first,  we are essentially taking milk AWAY from the baby that they would like when they need to move to that second side (which again – most babies need).   When using the silicone pump, or any pump, always remember to only pump right after a feed.

The advantages of a silicone pump

Silicone pumps are inexpensive.  They can be a wonderful way to collect milk without having to invest in a pricey electric or manual pump.

Silicone pumps may be more comfortable.  In my practice, I have had some mothers who find electric pumps irritate their already painful and damaged nipples.  Using the silicone pump some mothers can yield as much milk as an electric pump with zero pain!

Silicone pumps are easy to use on the go.  Some mothers can suction the pump to their breasts creating a completely hands-free experience.  They are also very easy to transport and require no batteries or electrical outlets!  Washing them is also a breeze.

Silicone pumps can help remove a stubborn blocked duct

Filling the pump full of warm water and a cup of Epsom salts and placing it on the blocked breast may help better remove a blocked duct.  Don’t forget that ultrasound treatment is also very effective in removing a block.

Happy nursing (and happy pumping) and don’t forget to reach out if you are having any concerns!