Medela Freestyle--Freaking out!

[poorlittlefish]

I got back to work in a week and a half and my Pump in Style Advanced that I used with my previous baby was pooping out a bit. I bought a Freestyle from my LC at a cost of $90 more than what a Pump In Style Advanced would cost. I work full time and travel for my job so the portability of this pump really appealed to me.

I brought it home this morning and the suction was markedly less than that of my PISA. I went to Target and bought a new accessories kit in case that was the issue. I made sure that it was assembled correctly and it was. I called Medela and their solution was to send me a new accessories kit, even though I just bought one. Either way, did I make a huge mistake buying this pump? Has anyone else used this pump and what were their thoughts on it?

I already struggle with low supply due to a breast reduction and I need the best pump possible. I gave my old pump to Goodwill so it is gone (kicking myself) so that I can't even use that. I just want to return this pump and get a PISA. Has anyone done that? Could I just be using it wrong and does anyone have any tips for me on this?

Thanks so much!

[altoidmandy]

I used one for 17 months and loved it, but it is the only pump I ever used so I don't have anything to compare it to. I will say that the suction was always enough for me even though at times I thought it felt a little weak too. I also found that over time the amount of suction seemed to decrease. It eventually stopped sucking all together (although I think that was related to me dropping it). I called Medela and they sent me a new one.

[cakemama579]

I had a problem with my Medela pump once, and they continued to send new parts until eventually the whole thing was replaced (it was the motor). Tell them about your PISA-- they are guaranteed for life. It might take a bit of convincing (they don't send them without a fight) but you can get the whole thing replaced!

[Skippy918]

Could the horns you are using be too big/too small? This would definitely affect output. When the pump is on, do you hear air escaping? I know for me, I had to reposition the valves on the horns to make sure they were sealed. Try unsnapping the caps and readjusting the rubber parts. Make sure everything is snapped closed.
Other than that minor issue, I really liked the pump cause of the hands free and portability.

[mom_2_carson]

I loved my Freestyle, much more than my PISA. Make sure all the pieces are dry when put together and that the bottles are attached tightly. If that doesn't do the trick keep calling Medela, it doesn't take more than a few calls to customer service before they over night you a new pump motor.

[Michelle Renee]

I am a low supply mamma and I loved loved loved my freestyle.

Call medela. It is a good pump!