Symphony 2-Phase Pumping Protocol
Maximum Comfort Vacuum
Research has shown that you will pump more efficiently—
meaning get more milk in less time—when pumping at
Maximum Comfort Vacuum in the Expression Phase.
1 1
Begin in Stimulation Phase
First, start the pump by pressing
the on/off button. The pump will
immediately begin pumping in
Stimulation Phase of the 2-Phase
Expression.
2 2
Switch to Expression Phase
Once your milk starts to flow,
or you sense milk ejection, press
the let-down button to switch to
the Expression Phase for the most
effective pumping and removal
of milk. If you do not press the
let-down button, the pump will
automatically switch to the Expression Phase after
two minutes.
3 3
Setting your Maximum
Comfort Vacuum
Maximum Comfort Vacuum is the
highest vacuum you can use and
still feel comfortable; it is different
for every mom. To find your
maximum comfort vacuum,
increase the vacuum by turning the Vacuum
Regulator Knob clockwise until pumping feels slightly
uncomfortable—never painful. Then, decrease the
vacuum one bar by turning the knob counterclockwise.
12
™
Symphony 2.0 Program Card –
Addressing Special Needs
The Symphony 2.0 Program Card includes a feature that
allows moms to switch back to the Stimulation Phase by
pressing the let-down button. Some moms find this fea-
ture beneficial in addressing the following special needs.
Please note that the Stimulation Phase is always limited to
two minutes.
1 1
No milk ejection occurs in the first two minutes
of the Stimulation Phase
If your milk ejection has not occurred in the first two
minutes of the Stimulation Phase and the pump
automatically switches to the Expression Phase, press
the let-down button once to return to the Stimulation
Phase. If you have not achieved a milk ejection after two
consecutive Stimulation Phases, take a break, relax and
try again in 15-30 minutes.
2 2
Engorgement
If, due to engorgement, you are experiencing difficulties
breastfeeding or expressing milk, careful use of the
Stimulation Phase may help to provide some relief. If your
milk ejection does not occur in the first two minutes of the
Stimulation Phase and the pump automatically switches
to the Expression Phase, press the let-down button to
return to the Stimulation Phase. Repeat this process until
your milk ejection occurs. After milk ejection you may find
it beneficial to remain in the Stimulation Phase until
enough milk has been expressed so that the nipple and
areola area are not as hard and engorged. After initially
draining the breast to relieve the discomfort, follow up
with breastfeeding or pumping and expressing in the
Expression Phase to adequately drain the breast.
Although Medela strongly encourages pumping in the
Expression Phase after milk ejection at Maximum Comfort
Vacuum
™
for the most effective removal of milk, it may be
necessary to address temporary discomfort issues by
pumping in the Stimulation Phase. If your engorgement
condition persists or worsens, consult your physician or
lactation consultant.
13