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What is the purpose of the Haakaa?

Understanding the Purpose of the Haakaa
The Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump has emerged as a revolutionary tool for breastfeeding mothers, designed to simplify the process of milk collection while promoting a more efficient nursing experience. This manual breast pump is particularly favored for its simplicity and effectiveness, making it an essential item for many nursing mothers.
How It Works
The Haakaa pump operates on a straightforward principle: it utilizes suction to collect breast milk. Mothers can attach the pump to one breast while nursing on the other, allowing for the collection of milk that would otherwise be lost. This hands-free approach not only maximizes milk yield but also encourages a more comfortable and relaxed breastfeeding experience. The design is user-friendly, requiring no batteries or complicated mechanisms, which appeals to many who prefer a more natural approach to breastfeeding.
Benefits for Nursing Mothers
One of the primary purposes of the Haakaa is to help mothers save more milk. This is particularly beneficial for those who may struggle with milk supply or wish to build a stash for later use. The ability to collect milk passively while nursing can lead to significant savings over time, allowing mothers to have a reserve for times when they may be away from their baby or unable to nurse directly.
Moreover, the Haakaa pump is made from food-grade silicone, ensuring safety and ease of cleaning. Its lightweight and portable design means that it can be easily carried in a diaper bag, making it convenient for on-the-go mothers.
A Supportive Tool in the Breastfeeding Journey
The Haakaa is not just a tool for milk collection; it also serves as a supportive companion in the breastfeeding journey. Many mothers report feeling empowered by the ability to manage their milk supply more effectively. The pump encourages mothers to embrace their breastfeeding experience, providing a sense of control and flexibility that can be particularly valuable in the early stages of motherhood.
In summary, the Haakaa Silicone Breast Pump is designed to enhance the breastfeeding experience by providing a simple, effective, and safe way to collect milk. Its purpose extends beyond mere functionality; it embodies a supportive approach to nursing that resonates with many mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding.

Why use a Haakaa instead of a pump?

The Haaka is a milk catcher, not a pump. It’s great for catching let-down from the side that baby doesn’t start on, or relieving some pressure if one side gets engorged.

Does Haakaa only catch letdown?

Absolutely not! Can you use your Haakaa in the same way you would any other breast pump? Definately. As long as there is milk in your breasts, the continuous suction of your Haakaa pump will draw it out – not JUST during your letdown.

Is Haakaa only for letdown?

Absolutely not! Can you use your Haakaa in the same way you would any other breast pump? Definately. As long as there is milk in your breasts, the continuous suction of your Haakaa pump will draw it out – not JUST during your letdown.

Does using Haakaa increase supply?

Haakaa USA acknowledges that “Haakaa’s suction does extract milk which may increase your supply” (Source). However, there is some debate as to whether the Haakaa is considered a ‘pump’ or just a ‘milk catcher’ (since it’s passive).

Will Haakaa cause oversupply?

A Haakaa is a type of manual breast pump that is often used to collect milk from the opposite breast/chest while breastfeeding or chestfeeding. While a Haakaa can be a useful tool for collecting extra milk or relieving engorgement, it can also contribute to an oversupply of milk if not used carefully.

What is the Haakaa controversy?

Many lactation consultants are concerned about the wide-spread use of silicone breast pumps, such as the Haakaa. They see issues like: oversupply. vasospasm/ pain (because it’s constant suction is left on too long) slow weight gain (because the Haakaa is taking the milk the baby needs)

What are the negatives of Haakaa?

The main downside of the Haakaa is the potential for oversupply (which makes you more likely to get blocked ducts and mastitis) and the risk of depriving your baby of the milk they need.

When should you use the Haakaa?

When should I use my Haakaa? You can use your Haakaa as much and as often as you wish. I used mine at least at the morning feed every morning because I tended to be very engorged and would leak often. If I was home, I generally always used it. No need to use it on the go.

Does Haakaa only catch Letdown?

Absolutely not! Can you use your Haakaa in the same way you would any other breast pump? Definately. As long as there is milk in your breasts, the continuous suction of your Haakaa pump will draw it out – not JUST during your letdown.

What is the point of a Haakaa?

For many, the biggest perk of the Haakaa pump is that it’s an easy way to collect excess milk. It’s quiet (unlike most electric pumps, which make a low, repetitive humming noise) and comes in just one piece, so you don’t have to hook up any parts before use—or clean all those parts when you’re done.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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