Hey there, new mama! Congratulations on your little bundle of joy. We know breastfeeding can be a challenge, but don’t worry, we’ve got your back. One of the tools that can make your breastfeeding journey easier is the Hakaa. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to use a Hakaa in 20 easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: What is a Hakaa?
A Hakaa is a silicone breast pump that is used to collect breast milk from one breast while nursing on the other. It’s a simple and easy-to-use device that can help you collect the letdown from the breast not being used to feed your baby. Not only does it help you build up a stash of milk, but it also reduces the risk of engorgement.
Step 2: Choose the Right Size
Before we start, it’s important to choose the right size Hakaa. There are two sizes available, a 100ml and a 150ml. If you have a smaller bust, the 100ml should be enough. However, if you have a larger bust, we recommend going for the 150ml size.
Step 3: Sterilize the Hakaa
Before using the Hakaa, sterilize it by boiling it in water for 3-5 minutes. This ensures that it’s clean and free from any bacteria.
Step 4: Position the Hakaa
Once you’ve sterilized the Hakaa, position it on your breast opposite to the one your baby is nursing on. Make sure that the lip of the Hakaa is resting on your breast and that there is a good seal between the Hakaa and your skin.
Step 5: Squeeze the Hakaa
Squeeze the base of the Hakaa to create a suction. You’ll know if you’ve created a good suction if the Hakaa stays in place without any support.
Step 6: Wait for the Letdown
Now that the Hakaa is in place, wait for the letdown. This is the moment when your milk starts to flow. It usually happens a few minutes after your baby has started nursing.
Step 7: Adjust the Position
If the Hakaa isn’t collecting any milk, adjust the position. Make sure that it’s not too tight or too loose, and that there is a good seal between the Hakaa and your skin.
Step 8: Check the Hakaa
Check the Hakaa after a few minutes to see if it’s collecting any milk. If it’s not, adjust the position again.
Step 9: Empty the Hakaa
Once you’ve collected enough milk, empty the Hakaa by pouring the milk into a storage container. You can also pour it directly into a bottle to feed your baby.
Step 10: Repeat
If you’re still nursing, you can repeat the process on the other breast. Just make sure to sterilize the Hakaa before using it on the other breast.
Step 11: Store the Milk
If you’re not using the milk right away, store it in the fridge or freezer. Make sure to label the container with the date and time it was collected.
Step 12: Clean the Hakaa
After using the Hakaa, clean it thoroughly with hot, soapy water. You can also sterilize it again by boiling it in water for 3-5 minutes.
Step 13: Use the Hakaa for Engorgement
If you’re experiencing engorgement, you can use the Hakaa to relieve the pressure. Just position it on your breast and let it collect the excess milk.
Step 14: Use the Hakaa to Increase Milk Supply
If you’re trying to increase your milk supply, you can use the Hakaa after nursing to collect any remaining milk. This tells your body to produce more milk.
Step 15: Use the Hakaa for Leaking
If you’re leaking milk, you can use the Hakaa to collect the milk and prevent it from soaking through your clothes.
Step 16: Use the Hakaa for Traveling
The Hakaa is a great tool for traveling. It’s small and easy to pack, and it doesn’t require any electricity. You can use it on the go to collect milk for your baby.
Step 17: Use the Hakaa for Donating Milk
If you have excess milk, you can use the Hakaa to collect it and donate it to a milk bank. Just make sure to follow the guidelines for donating milk.
Step 18: Use the Hakaa for Working Moms
If you’re a working mom, you can use the Hakaa to collect milk while at work. It’s discreet and easy to use, and it can help you build up a stash of milk for when you’re away from your baby.
Step 19: Use the Hakaa for Night Feedings
The Hakaa is also great for night feedings. You can use it to collect milk from the breast that your baby isn’t nursing on, without having to get up and pump.
Step 20: Enjoy the Benefits of Using a Hakaa
Using a Hakaa can make your breastfeeding journey easier and more enjoyable. It can help you build up a stash of milk, relieve engorgement, increase milk supply, and more. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the benefits of using a Hakaa.
TIPS: Use a Nursing Pillow
Using a nursing pillow can help you get into a comfortable position while nursing and using the Hakaa. It can also help you support your baby’s head and neck.
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you understand how to use a Hakaa. Remember to sterilize the Hakaa before using it, position it correctly, and wait for the letdown. With a little practice, using a Hakaa will become second nature to you. Happy nursing!See you again in our next informative article!
