Parts of a breastpump

The main parts of a breastpump typically include:

  • Flange (Breast Shield): The cone-shaped part that fits over your breast. It creates a seal around the nipple and helps draw out the milk during pumping.
  • Tunnel: The narrow part of the flange where the nipple is drawn into. Its size determines the flange size.
  • Connector/Valve Base: The part that connects the flange to the tubing and bottle, allowing milk to flow from the flange to the collection container.
  • Valves/Membranes: Small pieces that create suction and control milk flow. Valves help in creating the right vacuum pressure, and membranes keep the milk from flowing back into the tubing.
  • Tubing: Connects the pump motor to the flange, helping to create suction. Usually only found in electric pumps.
  • Pump Motor: The device that generates suction to draw milk out. In manual pumps, this is a hand-operated lever, while in electric pumps, it's powered by electricity or batteries.
  • Collection Bottle/Bag: The container where expressed milk is collected and stored. Some pumps allow for direct attachment of storage bags.
  • Backflow Protector: A component in some pumps that prevents milk from flowing back into the tubing, ensuring hygiene.
  • Power Adapter/Battery Pack: Electric pumps come with a power adapter to plug into an outlet, and some may also have a battery option for portability.
  • Control Panel/Buttons: Found on electric pumps, these allow you to adjust suction levels, speed, and other settings.
These components work together to create the vacuum needed for extracting breast milk efficiently and comfortably.