The Haakaa is a small, one piece, silicone breast pump, and fantastic little invention that allows a mom to pump conveniently without the hassle of assembling an electric breast pump. It is also very easy to clean and super portable. The Haaka simply suctions to your breast and begins to ‘pull’ milk out vs the sucking action of an electric or manual pump.

Most moms like to use the Haakaa on the opposite breast their baby is feeding on. When her milk lets-down, the Haakaa will begin pulling milk out of her breast.

But there is something important to consider here. The Haakaa is a PUMP, not just a milk collector. It doesn’t just ‘catch’ the milk that leaks with your let-down, but will continue to pull milk out of your breast. 

Therefore, the Haakaa can cause a few issues. #1) It can create an oversupply of breastmilk and #2) It can drain your breast of milk and lead to a very frustrated baby when milk is not able to flow

So when is the best time to use the Haakaa? I advise my clients to use their Haakaa to pull off some foremilk before baby breastfeeds if she has an identified issue with oversupply. This means, suctioning the Haakaa onto your breast for only a few minutes, then removing it, and then breastfeeding your baby.

Or use the Haakaa after your baby is done breastfeeding to help maximize milk removal and increase your supply (if desired)

Some moms find when they use the Haakaa independent of breastfeeding, it can be harder to trigger a let-down. If this is the case, try hand expressing first and once your milk begins to flow, suction the Haakaa on.  

If you just want to collect your milk that leaks during your let-down, consider using a milk collection device or just place the Haakaa against your breast….do not use suction.