A suction breast pump works by creating a vacuum that mimics a baby's sucking, drawing milk from the breast. This suction is typically generated manually or electrically.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Suction Creation: The user generates suction through various mechanisms, depending on the type of pump.
- Manual pumps: Often involve squeezing a lever or handle. This action creates a vacuum that draws the nipple into the pump flange and expresses milk. Another type involves pumping a cylinder-shaped tube within a larger cylinder, acting like a piston.
- Electric pumps: Utilize a motor to create the suction automatically. Users can typically adjust the suction strength and speed to suit their comfort levels and milk flow. Some electric pumps also mimic the natural sucking patterns of babies.
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Milk Collection: Once the suction is created and let-down occurs (milk starts to flow), the expressed milk is collected in an attached container, such as a bottle or collection bag.
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Foot-Pedal Pumps: Some less common breast pumps employ a foot pedal. The pumping action of the foot drives the mechanism that creates suction.
In summary, suction breast pumps utilize a vacuum created manually or electrically to draw milk from the breast and collect it in a container. The method of creating this suction is the key differentiating factor among the various pump types.
