As mamas we are constantly worrying about the what if’s. What if our sole breastfeeding baby needs to be left with a caregiver during an emergency or a date night? This worry tends to lead new and seasoned mothers to pumping before 6 weeks, in order to build a “supply stash”. We have already covered the risks of pumping before your supply regulates, in Risks of Pumping Before 6 Weeks: Why Patience is Key and Feed The Baby, Not The Freezer: Your Worth Is Not Measured In Ounces.

So if we should refrain from pumping before 6 weeks, what’s the solution? How do we get a small emergency “stash”? The answer is a by using a milk catcher or a Haakaa. A milk catcher, not to be confused with a hand-pump, allows breastfeeding mothers to easily collect breast milk while their baby is nursing on the other side.

Milk catchers, like the Haakaa, are not pumps (although the name does insinuate it is). There is no stimulation to the breast and it does not require pressure or suction, like a pump does. It is designed to collect let-down milk, typically wasted during breastfeeding. Hence leaky breasts and breastmilk t-shirts.

Benefits of Using Milk Catchers

Convenience:

The milk catcher is a simple, breastfeeding accessory that helps capture any milk that leaks from the non-nursing breast during breastfeeding sessions. Unlike pumping, which requires setting up, cleaning parts, and dedicating specific time slots, the milk saver effortlessly collects your letdown milk while you focus solely on nursing your baby. It eliminates the need to worry about scheduling pumping sessions, finding a quiet location, or lugging around heavy pumping equipment. With the milk saver, you can build your just in case, emergency supply stash without any additional effort or time, and without disrupting milk supply regulation.

No Waste:

With a milk catcher, every drop of your precious milk is collected and preserved, leaving no room for waste. This ensures that all the milk you produce is used, maximizing the overall supply in your freezer stash.

No Discomfort:

Many moms experience discomfort or soreness while using a breast pump, especially if not fitted correctly or if used for extended periods. Pumping can also cause nipple injuries or trigger milk supply deficiencies due to poor latch stimulation. On the other hand, using a milk saver doesn’t involve any suction or pressure on the breast, making it a much more comfortable option. You can nurse your baby naturally, while the milk saver discreetly collects any drips without causing any discomfort.

Cost-Effective:

Breast pumps, especially high-quality electric ones, can be quite expensive, adding an additional financial burden to new parents. Moreover, they require ongoing maintenance, replacement parts, and storage containers. In contrast, milk catchers are relatively inexpensive and have no additional maintenance or accessory costs.

Portability:

The Haakaa is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go moms. Whether you’re running errands or traveling, this milk saver can easily fit into your diaper bag or purse.

So no more temptation to pump for that stash! We know breastmilk is liquid gold, and every drop is valuable. The milk savers ensure that not a single drop goes to waste. No more spills or leaks, just pure and precious breast milk saved for later use. Plus, since it’s made from high-quality, BPA-free silicone, you can trust that your baby will be protected from harmful chemicals.