The Haakaa is a really cool gadget that didn’t reach popularity until after I stopped breastfeeding my first child a few years ago. I remember seeing it on one of the breastfeeding-mom group pages I follow on facebook and at the time I loved the idea and functionality. I made a mental note that I would order one and use it for my next pregnancy and I’m really glad I did.
Basically, the Haakaa suctions onto your breast and uses gravity to capture all of the milk that comes out. You can use this on one breast while hand expressing, nursing, manual or electric pumping on the other. Breastfeeding mothers go through great lengths to collect and store as much milk as possible, especially in those first weeks and months, for future use. The least amount of milk wasted the best. This tool is crucial in accomplishing this goal.
Prior to using the Haakaa I never used a pump to catch the extra milk from my other breast while I fed on the opposite side. I just relied on a disposable nursing pad to catch that let-down and threw it away. I knew back then it was a waste and I always wondered just how much milk I was literally throwing away but now I actually know. During my first weeks home with my second daughter, I would catch as much as 4 oz of milk in the Haakaa per feeding session! This not only helped me catch and store more milk for my little one, but it also saved me money from having to buy nursing pads so frequently. I kept it right next to my pump on my portable care cart so it was always within arms reach when I needed it.
I literally have nothing negative to say about this other than beware of kicking baby feet if you use while nursing. If it is properly attached it’s pretty secure, even when full, but be cautious. You don’t want to find yourself crying over spilled milk. It has happened to the best of us.
Years ago these were mainly found online, sold by certain sites and Amazon, which is where I bought mine. But now they have these in main stream stores like Target and Walmart. Lansinoh and Medela even make one!
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding I highly recommend getting one!
