Skip to the beginning of the images gallery. When you are troubleshooting, its much easier to see if a duckbill valve is working compared to the membrane style. You know why you should replace your breast pump parts, but how often? Each duckbill is made from silicone for a sturdy grip on the breast shields and flanges. DUCKBILL VALVES ARE AVAILABLE AT OUR STORE. However, it can be very hard to see a small tear in a lip valve, so if you experience a loss of suction try a new valve to see if theres an improvement. I admit to pumping for an entire year without changing my duckbill valves on my spectra. I have a spectra. Title says it all -recently began following an EP info account on Instagram and they posted something about EPers replacing valves regularly. Rinse, repeat, over and over. Is 6 weeks about the going rate of how long the duckbills last? Such a relief to know its not just my supply tanking, but lost suction from old parts as I suspected. The frequency you replace your breast pump parts depends on how often you pump. TeamTuff Compares Membrane and Lip/Duckbill Valves for Breast Pumps. If youre not sure what breastshield size you need, you should start by measuring your nipple. A lot of times you can find replacement valves in both styles for most major breast pump brands and some brands like Spectra sell both. Two valves and two membranes are included in each set. Replace them every 1-2 months to ensure optimal performance. any suggestions beyond replacing the duckbill Do you really have to replace yellow Medela valves regularly? unique waveform that holds your nipple in the drop zone. Two valves and two membranes are included in each set. This is the 3rd time(!) Some users report the pump feeling different with different styles of valves as well. The set comes with two duckbill valves designed to prevent backflow contamination. The slower the pump cycle the more time your nipple spends in the drop zone and generally the more efficiently milk is removed. wow! Some users say that they think the duckbill style makes more noise. If you are using a membrane valve, there is a correct installation position. We recommend changing your valves as often as once a month. Thats why Rumble Tuff makes our membrane valves with an extra long handle. 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Prices, promotions, styles and availability may vary by store & online. Can be used as spare parts whether your on-the-go or needing to maintain an extra supply at home or work. I use the duckbill valves from Amazon on my Medela Pump instead of the yellow with the membrane and I am surprised with how much better they work for me! I fought through my low supply harder than any one I know!. Please call us at 888-303-9354, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. There membranes look so much better than the Medela ones! The membrane opens and releases during pump cycles allowing proper connection to the breast. Does anyone know? All Rumble Tuff users qualify for free breastfeeding support via Zoom. A properly fitted breastshield should leave 2-3mm of space around the nipple while youre pumping. Spectra Valve & Membrane Sets are specifically designed and authentic for Spectra Baby USA Breast Pumps. I even noticed changing out the duckbills frequently makes a difference too! the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information. Make sure the valve is pushed tightly on to the pump body. I typically changed my medela membranes monthly. Getting frustrated with my pisa pump. I purchased the me. We understand how crucial breast feeding and pumping is to motherhood so weve made it easier with theZomee Double Breast Pump. They are the traditional, older style of valve. TeamTuff Tip: If you feel like your pump is losing suction, or you notice a drop in output, check your valves. Generic valves can fit the opening but can be different than what the manufacturer intends. We gladly provide our services but they should only be used in addition to regular communication with your health care provider. I replaced the membranes and valves on my pump with duckbill valves and doubled my output! One question we get a lot is which is better: the white silicone duck valves (like the ones that come with the Milk Genie), or the valve and membrane set (like the ones that come with the Pumpables All-in-One Breastshield set)? I just change them when I see/feel that they are sucking as powerfully as before. Same question -- how do I know when to change membranes for the Med. :). When putting your pieces together before using your pump be sure to push down on the membrane well to make sure its seated/shut well. I actually just replaced mine yesterday and didnt notice a difference like when I change the duck bill thingies. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. Dont brush them or abrade them, but make sure they are clean by running hot soapy water through them or boiling then checking for residue. I'm renting a Symphony right now, but might switch to the PISA (which I got through insurance) later to save some money. If there is a slight gap in a duckbill when it arrives, please be rest assured that it is NOT defective. Do they lay flush with the valve when held parallel with the floor (membrane facing down)? The valve and membrane set provide the same functionality as the Duckbill Valve but with an alternative two piece design. The Spectra Valve & Membrane Set is used to create suction to draw out Breast milk while pumping. Can be used as spare parts whether your on-the-go or needing to maintain an extra supply at home or work. Can you post a link? I have 3 sets in rotation though, so it usually ends up being every 2-3 months for me changing mine. A few years ago membrane valves became more standard but you can find both styles on Amazon, typically. Generally speaking, the major difference between the two styles of valves is that duckbill valves need to be replaced less frequently, but lots of mums find that valve membranes are easier to clean because they come apart. Not only do these new valves provide better suction to your breast shield kit, but thanks to its one-piece design, they are easier to install and clean. Lip valves do produce slightly more suction. To install the duckbill valve into your Zomee breast shield kit, just insert the valve into the valve opening in the breast shield body. Yes!, Zomee valves are very safe and provide a safe environment for breast milk extraction. Please select a reason for escalating this post to the WTE moderators: The educational health content on What To Expect is reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff. How do I know when to . If you need help finding your breastshield size, get in touch with the Pumpables Fitting Room for a free breastshield sizing consultation. Group Leaders arent expected to spend any additional time in the community, and are not held to a set schedule. Yes! Or what are your expierences with the duck bill valves? As the vacuum is applied (either the motor creates the suck or if you are hand pumping you move the lever) the valve needs to close completely. Both valves provide excellent back-flow protection. If you have a breast pump that will take either style of valve, its worth trying them both out to see which you prefer and if it makes a difference with output. We strive to provide you with a high quality community experience. But if you are using an open-system pump be aware of this if you decide to experiment, especially if you already struggle with milk/moisture in the tubing and pump. You can find duckbill valves inside the box of your new Zomee Double Electric Breast Pump. Our pink duckbill valves come with a convenient pull tab so they're easy to remove from your breast shield without risk of tearing. What is this you speak of? All Rumble Tuff pumps are closed-system so this is not an issue. Milk drops out because of gravity and your nipple returns to home base. Thats so your nipple can be the only moving piece in the system and get pulled into the shield. Choking Hazard - keep away from infants and small children. This can be used as a replacement for the Spectra Duckbill Valve. wss^^ Any time you feel suction isnt good anymore or your output drops. lol I'm in need of increasing my supply for my twins. Get your FREE Rumble Tuff Breast Pump through insurance! My goal is to make it to a year and go from there! Highly recommend replacing parts! Especially when coated with fatty newborn milk, those things are slippery! Most change it monthly as part of routine. This was HUGE since I only produced drops with my first child and I only made about 1 to 2 oz max per day with that one. They are nice and thick and seem to lay flush with the membrane much better than Medelas. That is a key sign that the membrane is bad. I just got my Spectra S2 on saturday. That said, do you know what the valves look like? how often do you all change your duck bill valves? The membrane opens and releases during pump cycles allowing proper connection to the breast. The pumping journey encompasses a great deal of medical/postpartum territory and that doesn't mean everything stays equal. This action cannot be undone. We made the change to the new valves because we think they are easier to use and are more durable due to their one-piece construction. They tear easily. Monique, a mum with hyoplasia (insufficient breast duct tissue) pumped exclusively for 6 months with her second baby and says that her supply massively increased after getting fitted with the right breastshield size. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. I have been using my spectra 2 for 2 weeks now. Many moms report that the duckbill-style valves are easier to remove. Another pump cycle starts and the valve closes again. Pay attention to slow but gradual decreases in milk output as a sign that these parts need to be replaced. I struggled with low supply twice due to hypoplasia. Another way to know if your duckbills need to be replaced is by doing this test: When all your pump parts are properly assembled and your breast pump is turned on, the duckbill will pull closed at the tip. Spectra Valve & Membrane Sets are specifically designed and authentic for Spectra Baby USA Breast Pumps. As valves wear, your suction suffers which you might have learned the hard way. This may be one reason for the global switch in styles a few years ago. If the item details above arent accurate or complete, we want to know about it. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. Yes! I know I can purchase them off amazon just dont know the quality. Warning! Create an account or log in to participate. If using a different style causes noises like squeaking or honking, your pump might not be compatible with the valve. Please specify a reason for deleting this reply from the community. Only use genuine manufacturer parts in your breast pump. Thats because a good lip valve will pucker up and tighten up every time vacuum is applied and its easy to see valve wear. Thanks! The flap doesnt close as efficiently in other install positions and can get hung open, reducing your total suction. Here are some things to think about: If you havent yet, you should measure your nipple for your breastshield size. Not finding what you are looking for? The pump cycle ends and without the vacuum being applied, the valve relaxes. The Spectra Valve & Membrane Set is used to create suction to draw out breast milk while pumping. This is what I use with my PISA. Our duckbill valves are also easy to clean and can replace the traditional valve/membrane provided by some breast pump manufacturers. Do you ever get the off brand? awesome, thanks! 2022Everyday Health, Inc, The views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of What to Expect. Note that once you confirm, this action cannot be undone. Thanks to Pumpables I finally got my true size of breastshield and could make 3/4 of my babys needs! I'm gonna try them out! I though the. At Pumpables we are constantly hearing reports from mums that theyre getting better results after replacing parts. The set is compatible with the Spectra S1, S2, SG, or 9 Plus Breast Pump. I use my Medela more frequently and replace membranes monthly. In addition to that you want to try changing anytime you see a dip in supply, even if you just changed it, or if the suction feels too low. We will send you a notification as soon as this product is available again. Like all things breast pumping, your mileage may vary and you should try combinations to see what is most comfortable and efficient for you. Going on 10 months strong! But the longer the cycle (the longer the nipple is in the drop zone) and the higher the suction, the more wear on the valves. If youre having trouble with suction, do that again to make sure the membrane is making a tight seal. The Spectra Duckbill Valve Set provides increased suction for better milk output during pumping. I finally changed my pump valves, and OMG!! After extensive testing with a pressure gauge, we found the breast pump suction was not compromised at all. Please whitelist our site to get all the best deals and offers from our partners. Lip valves are also called duckbill valves depends on the manufacturer. Your insurance may provide spare parts check with the medical supply company where you got your pump. Proceeds from products purchased support medical research and education at Mayo Clinic . How do I know when to change the membranes? Sooo much better than the yellow things. are they the nenesupply ones that are white? I though the duck bill looked like it might be sturdier but both seem to wear out about the same. And, our bodies are different with different pregnancies. I have bought the Medela membranes from Target and I have also bought some off brand from amazon. The following video shows how you can change out the valve in just a couple of seconds. Be careful that not too much areola is being drawn in and around the nipple while your pumping, because that can actually hinder milkflow! I was so happy to stumble upon a review for them saying they fit! I have been using my Medela PISA and the valve and membranes. Learn more about, Your Guide to the First Trimester of Pregnancy, Your Guide to the Second Trimester of Pregnancy. Maybe its just me though! The information provided to by the Rumble Tuff website or lactation consultant is for informational and educational purposes only. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Group Leaders communicate with staff moderators and escalate potential violations for review, but they dont moderate discussions. Parts like valves and backflow protectors need to be replaced most frequently. The ones off the spectra site are spendy.. youch! All rights reserved. undefined out of 5 stars with undefined reviews, Provides proper suction while maintaining pump performance during cycles, For use with the Spectra S1, S2, SG, and 9 Plus Breast Pumps, Provides the same function as the Spectra Duckbill Valve Set, Spectra parts that come into contact with Breast Milk are manufactured BPA-free. Use left/right arrows to navigate the slideshow or swipe left/right if using a mobile device, choosing a selection results in a full page refresh, press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection. Thus giving you better output. What do you prefer? My Medela uses the membrane and my freemie has duck bill. Zomee new duckbill valves replace the original valve and membrane, giving you fewer parts to wash, sterilize and assemble. This is why we suggest replacing as often as once a month, but valve wear depends entirely on use and care. If youre wondering about average ranges for how frequently you need to replace specific breast pump parts, you can check out our guide for when to replace breast pump parts. At Rumble Tuff, we manufacture both main types of valves for our pumps because there are pros and cons to both types and we have found that successful pumping means more options. Then, measure the diameter of your nipple at the base. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Same question -- how do I know when to change membranes for the Medela? I typically changed my medela membranes monthly. It never seemed to lose suction. I just changed mine after about 6 weeks and it's really been speeding things up. Users report that lip valves can trap more milk/moisture in the tubing of open-system pumps. Pump for 5 minutes so that your nipples are swollen. I exclusively pumped for 6 months with my 2nd baby. those are the ones I use with my medela. The durable and flexible food-grade silicone promotes strong suction when pumping. I heard that was suggested but Ive yet to do it and Ive been pumping on this pump since late March. Where do you buy your membranes? Your nipple stretches and sprays milk. We dont find that with Rumble Tuff pumps and our valves, but it could be part of that generic situation we spoke of earlier.