Mixed Mode Pumping - Why this Blessing can be a Curse
Mixed mode pumping isn’t new, but the increasing number of pumps we are seeing with this suction pattern has taught us a lot about the pros and cons of this suction style. So, let’s break it down for you now.
Breast pumps traditionally operate on two basic modes of suction:
Stimulation - this is a quick and light setting designed to simulate a baby suckling at the breast to stimulate and release milk.
Fast cycles. Low suction.
Expression - this is a stronger, longer setting designed to mimic the deep swallows of a baby during a letdown.
Slow cycles. High suction.
Mixed mode, however, is a suction pattern that combines these two modes of suction into one repeating pattern with several short bursts of fast, but low suction cycles, followed by a few longer, stronger cycles. This pattern repeats on a loop, and it is thought to better simulate how a baby nurses to maximize efficiency of the pump. The number of cycles of each pattern repeats in differs by pump.
Benefits of this suction style:
This combined suction pattern is exceptionally effective at emptying the breast quickly for many people.
There is a trend towards requiring less time to pump.
Reduced need to adjust to a particular pump.
Risks of this Suction Style:
The long pull on many of these pumps is in fact L-O-N-G with an extended hold of the pump at the higher suction. A quick pull at higher suction is going to place the tissue under significantly less stress than a longer sustained pull. Longer duration of the elevated suction comes with an increased risk of tissue damage or pain.
Which pumps use this suction pattern?
Baby Buddha***
Momcozy s9
Momcozy s12
Momcozy s9 pro
Zomee Z2***
Unimom Minuet***
NCVI pump***
Bella Baby
Bella Baby Wearable
Youha Gen2
Doopser Wearables
Tommee Tippee pumps
*** Recommended Brands
Should you try a pump with this type of suction?
Given this suction pattern has not been picked up by mainstream heavier duty more reliable pumps if you want to try this its available exclusively on smaller portable or wearable pumps.
Why is this a reason to think about the risks?
This suction pattern has a reputation of quickly causing your body to be dependent on it. This is fine as long as your pump is meeting your needs and remains in working order. If something changes, and you need a heavier duty pump, this could be an issue as it really just doesn’t exist. If your pump breaks (not uncommon when using a cheaper pump more heavily) you are either locked in to one of these limited options, or you may lose supply as you transition to a different suction style.
There is also an elevated risk of pain and nipple damage. Just imagine being dependent on the very suction pattern causing your nipples to ache. You can minimize this with good sizing and optimal inserts, but even that is not a guarantee that you won’t run into these issues.
Is there a way to minimize these risks?
It is possible to proactively manage these challenges to minimize (not eliminate) the risks to a large degree. But, it requires frequent attention to your pumping management and conscientious pumping habits to avoid using this suction pattern exclusively. If you create a solid plan and stick to your routine, you may be able to successfully take advantage of this desirable suction pattern without potentially jeopardizing your milk supply if the pump fails or wears out.
Will more reliable, heavier duty, pumps start offering this suction pattern?
Honestly, I’m surprised they haven’t picked up on it yet. This pattern is surprisingly effective, and when done within reasonable suction levels and appropriate flange sizing, is comfortable. Bigger companies are more likely to slowly adopt new technologies or features, so we may start to see this option in newer models of pumps. As long as they keep access to traditional suction patterns as well, I think this could be a huge step forward in getting more milk faster with a breast pump.
But, until such a time as we have widespread, high quality access, my professional recommendation will remain to use with caution. Even a great tool used without respecting the shortcomings and limitations places your success at risk - this doesn’t change the potential value of the tool. We just need to use it carefully to protect your long-term ability to meet your goals.
