If you used a breast pump while in the hospital, odds are, you used a Medela breast pump. In fact, the Symphony double electric breast pump by Medela is the number one pump used in hospitals across Canada.

If you choose to use the Medela breast pump at home, here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started!

Using the Medela Breast Pump

Wash Your Hands

You want to make sure your hands are germ-free when working with equipment that interacts with your body.

Position the Pump

Take note of the breast shields on the pump. You want to make sure your nipples are centred to prevent any irritation or injury.

Turn It On

Making sure you’re in a comfortable position, turn the machine on. The past-paced stimulation phase will then start. Depending on the style of Medela breast pump, you may have to hold the shields in position while you pump.

Get Ready For Milk

When you see or feel milk, press the “expression phase” button. This slows down the machine. If you don’t press the button, it will automatically switch over to this phase once you’re two minutes into pumping.

Adjust the Speed

Ensure the speed of the pump is comfortable for you. Adjust the speed knob until the pumping feels both comfortable and efficient.

Remove the Tubing

Once you’re done pumping, remove the tubing from the breast shields.

Cap the Bottles

Now that you’re finished, add the lids to the milk bottles and store them.

Shut It Down

Turn off the machine and clean it thoroughly. You don’t want old milk sitting in there the next time you use it. Then wash your hands again.

Using a breast pump can be tricky, so don’t hesitate to experiment with what works best for you! From the amount of time you’re able to pump to what your comfort levels are, you want to ensure you’re taking care of yourself during the process. Pumping shouldn’t hurt, so if it is, look for ways that the experience can be improved!

Springborough Pharmasave is your health professionals committed to serving the Springborough community. Our pharmacy in SW Calgary provides you with all you need for your health, including healthcare advice and medical products. We offer vaccinations, flu shots, breast pump rentals, and can act as your travel clinic in Calgary. Giving back to the community is a core value at Pharmasave. Further, we are proud of our work to help the Springborough community. Visit us at 104-30 Springborough Blvd, Southwest Calgary, or call us at (403) 453-6113.

Nearly a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada began approving vaccines for use in Canada. Now, we have several options to choose from when it comes to the COVID-19 vaccines.

Let’s take a look at which ones are available in Canada.

The Four Types of COVID Vaccines in Canada

Pfizer-BioNTech

The first vaccine approved for Canadian consumption was Pfizer-BioNTech. Clinical studies have shown that one week after the second shot, the vaccine is:

95% effective in protecting trial participants 16 years and older against COVID-19
100% effective in trial participants that are 12 to 15 years of age

This vaccine requires two doses, meaning Canadians will have to return for a follow-up appointment to get their second shot.

Health Canada has approved this vaccine for anyone over the age of twelve. The safety and effectiveness in people younger than this have yet to be determined.

Janssen (Johnson & Johnson)

Also known as the J&J vaccine, this option was approved by Health Canada in March of 2021. It has proven to be 66% effective against COVID-19 once two weeks have passed from the time of the injection.

The Janssen vaccine only requires one dose, meaning those selected to receive this vaccine only need to make one appointment.

This vaccine is allowed to be given to people 18 years of age or older. The safety and effectiveness in people younger than this have yet to be established.

AstraZeneca

Health Canada authorized the AstraZeneca vaccine in February of 2021. This vaccine has an effectiveness rate of 62% against COVID-19 once two weeks have passed from the time the second dose was administered.

Two doses are required for maximum effectiveness, so those Canadians who receive AstraZeneca will need to make a follow-up appointment to receive their second shot.

Mother taking care of baby with chicken pox

This vaccine has been approved for those 18 years of age and older. The safety and effectiveness in people younger than this have yet to be confirmed.

Moderna

Moderna was the second COVID-19 vaccine to be approved by Canada Health back in December of 2020. It has proven to be 94.1% effective two weeks after the second dose is given.

This vaccine is most effective after two doses, so a follow-up appointment will need to be made to receive your second shot.

Moderna has been approved for those 18 years of age and older. The safety and effectiveness in people younger than 18 have yet to be determined.

Canada Health recommends taking whichever vaccine becomes available to you first. However, your doctor may suggest a specific type of vaccine for you.