How-to Guide  

Using Your Symphony Breast Pump

Here's everything you need to know about using your Symphony Breast Pump.

Watch the video below to learn how to use the Symphony pump

The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.

Frequently Asked Questions

We are happy to schedule a consultation with one of our RN, IBCLCs for you. Please call us at 877-593-2454 to get that scheduled!

Ensure all parts are clean and dry. Connect the tubing to the pump and breast shields. Attach the membranes and valves to the breast shields, then connect the bottles. For detailed assembly instructions, refer to the Symphony Instruction Manual.

The Symphony offers two programs:

  • INITIATE: Designed for the first few days postpartum to stimulate milk production.
  • MAINTAIN: Used after milk has come in to maintain supply. Switch to MAINTAIN once you’re producing around 20 mL in a session or by day 6 postpartum.

The tunnel of the breast shield should surround your nipple closely without rubbing or leaving too much space. A proper fit avoids discomfort and optimizes milk flow. Medela offers sizing guides to help you find the right fit.

  • INITIATE: The pump runs for 15 minutes and shuts off automatically.
  • MAINTAIN: You control session length (typically ~15 minutes). The pump will automatically shut off after 30 minutes if not manually stopped.

It’s the highest suction level that still feels comfortable. Gradually increase the vacuum until it starts to feel slightly uncomfortable, then reduce slightly to find your optimal level.

Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into both the wall outlet and the hidden compartment on the back of the pump. The back compartment has a sliding door—be sure the cord is fully connected inside.

  • Ensure all parts are correctly assembled.
  • Inspect membranes for wear—replace them if they appear stretched or damaged.
  • Membranes typically need replacing every 1–3 months.

The pump automatically shuts off after 30 minutes, whether operating on battery or electric power.

This often indicates an obstruction in the tubing. Also check that membranes and caps are securely attached.

The internal battery is nearly depleted. The pump will beep every 20 seconds and will continue for 15 minutes before automatically shutting off. Connect the power cord and confirm it’s properly seated.

  • INVALID CARD: The program card may be damaged or inserted incorrectly. Remove and reinsert it.
  • NO CARD: The pump doesn’t detect the program card. Ensure it’s fully inserted into the back panel slot.

A system error signals a malfunction.

    1. Try a soft reboot:
    • Hold the letdown button, then hold the on/off button.
    • Release both when “please wait” appears.
    2. If that fails, try a hard reboot:
    • Remove the program card from the back.
    • Gently wipe and dry it.
    • Reinsert and restart the pump.

Disassemble and wash all parts that come into contact with milk in warm, soapy water after each use. Rinse well and air dry. For more details, follow the cleaning instructions in the Symphony Instruction Manual.

  • Membranes: Replace every 1–3 months or sooner if suction drops.
  • Other parts (valves, shields, tubing): Replace as needed depending on use and wear.

Yes! You can rent a Medela Symphony breast pump directly through us. Just place an order on our website and we’ll handle the rest. If you have questions, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help.

You’re welcome to contact us with questions, or consult the Symphony PLUS® Breast Pump Support page for additional resources like videos and guides.
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider for medical advice on the faqs

Frequently Asked Questions

We are happy to schedule a consultation with one of our RN, IBCLCs for you. Please call us at 877-593-2454 to get that scheduled!

Ensure all parts are clean and dry. Connect the tubing to the pump and breast shields. Attach the membranes and valves to the breast shields, then connect the bottles. For detailed assembly instructions, refer to the Symphony Instruction Manual.

The Symphony offers two programs:

  • INITIATE: Designed for the first few days postpartum to stimulate milk production.
  • MAINTAIN: Used after milk has come in to maintain supply. Switch to MAINTAIN once you’re producing around 20 mL in a session or by day 6 postpartum.

The tunnel of the breast shield should surround your nipple closely without rubbing or leaving too much space. A proper fit avoids discomfort and optimizes milk flow. Medela offers sizing guides to help you find the right fit.

  • INITIATE: The pump runs for 15 minutes and shuts off automatically.
  • MAINTAIN: You control session length (typically ~15 minutes). The pump will automatically shut off after 30 minutes if not manually stopped.

It’s the highest suction level that still feels comfortable. Gradually increase the vacuum until it starts to feel slightly uncomfortable, then reduce slightly to find your optimal level.

Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into both the wall outlet and the hidden compartment on the back of the pump. The back compartment has a sliding door—be sure the cord is fully connected inside.

  • Ensure all parts are correctly assembled.
  • Inspect membranes for wear—replace them if they appear stretched or damaged.
  • Membranes typically need replacing every 1–3 months.

The pump automatically shuts off after 30 minutes, whether operating on battery or electric power.

This often indicates an obstruction in the tubing. Also check that membranes and caps are securely attached.

The internal battery is nearly depleted. The pump will beep every 20 seconds and will continue for 15 minutes before automatically shutting off. Connect the power cord and confirm it’s properly seated.

  • INVALID CARD: The program card may be damaged or inserted incorrectly. Remove and reinsert it.
  • NO CARD: The pump doesn’t detect the program card. Ensure it’s fully inserted into the back panel slot.

A system error signals a malfunction.

    1. Try a soft reboot:
    • Hold the letdown button, then hold the on/off button.
    • Release both when “please wait” appears.
    2. If that fails, try a hard reboot:
    • Remove the program card from the back.
    • Gently wipe and dry it.
    • Reinsert and restart the pump.

Disassemble and wash all parts that come into contact with milk in warm, soapy water after each use. Rinse well and air dry. For more details, follow the cleaning instructions in the Symphony Instruction Manual.

  • Membranes: Replace every 1–3 months or sooner if suction drops.
  • Other parts (valves, shields, tubing): Replace as needed depending on use and wear.

Yes! You can rent a Medela Symphony breast pump directly through us. Just place an order on our website and we’ll handle the rest. If you have questions, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help.

You’re welcome to contact us with questions, or consult the Symphony PLUS® Breast Pump Support page for additional resources like videos and guides.
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider for medical advice on the faqs

Additional Support

Live, multilingual support is available every day from 8am to 8pm (365 days a year).

Phone or text: (877) 593-2454
Email: orders@biliblanketbaby.com