Haakaa Supplemental Feeding Tube & Pouch Set (SNS)

This set, also known as a supplemental nursing system (SNS), is a special contraption designed to assist mothers and their little ones having trouble with breastfeeding by supplementing breastmilk or formula at the breast through a thin feeding tube as their baby breastfeeds.

Many mums and their bubs have found this little system incredibly useful when they run into breastfeeding issues such as latching difficulties, low milk supply, the need for extra nutrition, etc. It also allows a non-lactating parent to bond with their baby through the experience of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact.

We always recommend visiting a breastfeeding or lactation consultant if you feel the SNS could be of assistance to you and your baby.

All of our SNSs can be used as many times as you would otherwise feed your baby, provided the product has no damage and is well-maintained and thoroughly cleaned. However, please speak with a medical professional before using this product, as they will be able to tell you how long you might need to be using the SNS, whether this product is right for you and your baby, how to wean, etc.

Getting the right flow of milk is essential – you want your baby to be able to suck and receive adequate milk with each mouthful, but you don't want them getting a nonstop flow of milk, as they will realise they don't need to suck at your breast to feed, or they may become overwhelmed.

Once the milk is travelling through the tube, adjust the flow speed using the flow controller – roll it down for a slower flow and up for faster. You want your baby to receive milk easily each time they suck, but it shouldn't just pour into their mouth without them trying. Check they are not overwhelmed with milk (this is especially important for premature babies or with existing heart or breathing difficulties). This can be indicated by:

• Choking
• Spluttering
• Turning away from the breast
• Gassiness/spitting up/hiccuping after a feed

If you need to stop the milk flow urgently, pinch the tube with your fingers.

This set also has the option of a smaller tube with a flow switch, which has only an open/closed option. This is designed for smaller babies, and due to the smaller size of the tube does not have the ability to increase the flow of milk.

You and your baby may need a few attempts to use the SNS comfortably. This may mean unlatching your little one and relatching to get them used to the sensation of the tube. If they show signs of distress, remove the SNS and try again at the next feeding session.

A deep latch is essential for feeding, especially when using the SNS. If you are unsure what a deep latch looks or feels like or have any queries on whether your baby is feeding correctly using the SNS, seek guidance from your midwife or lactation consultant.

The smaller end of the tube is made to go in your baby's mouth, while the wider end is attached to the pouch connector. The pouch comes with a tie that allows you to attach the pouch to your bra strap, keeping it secure and out of the way. Once the tubes are attached, simply invert the pouch and use the tie to attach it, before fixing the other end of the feeding tube to your breast 0.5cm from your nipple and securing in place using the included medical tape. This set comes with 5 feeding tubes and flow controllers, giving you plenty of spares!

Each tube should be thoroughly cleaned as soon as possible after each use. To clean the tubes, fill the pouch with hot, soapy water soon after feeding and flush the water through to clear out any remaining milk, rolling the tube between your fingers to remove any stubborn residue as you go. Rinse with clean water, then flush out any remaining water within the tube by emptying the pouch, reattaching the connector & tubes, then pushing air through. Allow the tubes to thoroughly dry before storing.

We strongly recommend sterilising the SNS after use with any steam sterilising system or by boiling in water for 2–3 minutes. Do not use any bleach-based agents or sterilising tablets to clean these products. Do not use a UV steriliser to clean this product, as it may impact its lifespan. To clean the flow controller, wash with warm soapy water and allow to air-dry thoroughly.

Get your baby used to the tube by popping it in their mouth as you introduce them to your breast at the start of a feed. Place it between your baby's upper lip and curled tongue. If this isn't possible or your baby fusses because of it, place the tube so it lies alongside their tongue instead. Alternatively, once your baby is latched at your breast, try slipping the tube into the corner of their mouth. Usually, taping along the length of the tube secures it more firmly than taping across it.

How to use the SNS:

1. Fill the pouch with supplemental milk, then push the cap and connector into the pouch opening.
2. Insert the tube's wide opening firmly into the protruding duct on the connector. Ensure the flow controller is set to the slowest setting, or, if using the small tube and flow switch, ensure it is pulled to the "Close" position.
3. Place the pouch upside down and tie around your bra strap using the secure tie. Adjust position as needed.
4. Place the end of the tube 0.5cm away from your nipple and secure with the included medical tape.
5. Introduce your baby to your nipple. Place the end of the tube gently into their mouth to begin feeding.
6. To start milk flow, gently roll the flow controller wheel, or, if using the small flow switch, pull to the "Open" position. When using the flow controller, gently roll the controller wheel, using it to manage the speed the milk flows until you find your baby's preferred rate.

Yes, you can use our Supplemental Feeding System to finger feed. Simply tape the thinner tube to your finger instead of your nipple. Ensure your hands are thoroughly washed and dried before feeding your baby using this method.

The fitting for the top of the pouch has a one-way valve that allows air in to ensure the milk keeps flowing. The volume of milk left should not impact the flow of what comes out of the tube, as gravity is going to be what carries the milk down, a similar concept to a water bottle.

Additionally, we don't foresee the flow being too slow for older kids as this can be easily adjusted with the flow controller. We do recommend keeping an eye on the milk level within the pouch. If it runs out, remove the tube to allow baby to continue feeding at the breast, or try adding more milk to the pouch. Your lactation consultant will be able to give you more specific advice tailored to your and your baby's needs.

The pouch is partially transparent and has a flat bottom enabling it to sit upright on a surface to be refilled. It has clear measurement marks along the side in 20ml increments, which are very easy to gauge when the pouch is on a flat surface.

• 5 x tubes
• 1 x feeding pouch with loop
• 1 x pouch cap
• 1 x pouch stopper
• 1 x connector
• 5 x flow controllers
• 1 x roll of medical tape
• 1 x storage case

The pouch has a 120ml capacity, which goes up in 20ml increments. The measurement marks on the side are very easy to gauge when the pouch is on a flat surface.

It may be easier to use a syringe by itself for very small measurements, however the fitting on the end of the feeding tube will make it very easy to use either.