Wearable or Hands-free in-bra pumping is popular amongst women who seek flexibility and/or efficiency of milk removal.  However, this new modality of expression involves several design feature considerations that may have the potential to impact performance compared to traditional pumping systems, although to-date the efficiency and effectiveness of this modality has not been tested. In order to address this gap we have developed new protocols to explore hands-free in-bra pumping and used these methods to  investigate the impact on the efficacy of a hands-free in-bra double pumping system, including effectiveness (volume expressed, percentage available milk removed, how well the breast was drained), milk ejection characteristics (timing stimulation of milk ejection and milk flow), nipple changes (nipple temperature, and size) and comfort ratings. Furthermore, we will present data on the increased flexibility of maternal mobility, perceptions, and confidence of the pumping experience.

This program has been approved for 1.0 contact hours; provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, CEP 13692.

Presenter

Prof. Donna T. Geddes, DMU, PhD

Professor Geddes, from The University of Western Australia, is internationally renowned for her novel work with ultrasound imaging that has revolutionized the our understanding of the anatomy of the lactating breast, milk ejection and blood flow, as well as the infant’s sucking technique, suck-swallow-breathe co-ordination, gastric emptying and body composition of both the term and preterm infant.

She has since expanded her range of research interests to include the synthesis and removal of milk from the breast, the composition of human milk and its impact on the growth and body composition of breastfed infants, the investigation of human milk metabolites and the search for biomarkers that are indicative of breast dysfunction.