Medela Swing - Breast Pump Manual
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Product Description
Take a moment to read through this entire instruction manual before using this product for the first time.
PLEASE SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
It is best to wait until your breastfeeding routine is established (approximately 4 weeks) before expressing breast milk, unless otherwise advised by your healthcare professional.
Glossary of Terms
2-Phase Expression® technology – research based technology that mimics a baby's natural nursing rhythm.
Expression Phase – slower sucking/pumping rhythm for gentle and efficient milk removal as quickly as possible.
Maximum Comfort Vacuum™ – highest vacuum setting where a mother still feels comfortable during pumping. It is different for every mother.
Stimulation Phase – fast sucking/pumping rhythm to stimulate the milk ejection reflex and to start the milk flowing.
Intended Use
For lactating women to express and collect milk from their breasts to complement breastfeeding.
If you have medical reasons or other needs for exclusively pumping, it is recommended that you use a hospital grade breast pump such as our Symphony Breast Pump. To learn more, visit us at www.medelabreastfeedingus.com.
Product Description
Swing ® is a personal use electric breast pump that includes 2-Phase Expression technology and is capable of single pumping.
![Medela - Swing - Product Description - Part 1 Product Description - Part 1]()
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![Medela - Swing - Product Description - Part 2 Product Description - Part 2]()
![Medela - Swing - Product Description - Part 3 Product Description - Part 3]()
Overview of LEDs
lights up | On |
does not light up | Off |
even, regular flashing | Stimulation phase |
light constantly on | Expression phase |
rapid flashing | Min./Max. vacuum |
Cleaning
Before using for the first time
Clean and sanitize the parts below before using your pump for the first time. Follow the cleaning and sanitizing instructions.
- Breast shield
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- White membrane
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- Breast milk bottle and lid
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- Connector
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- Yellow valve
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- Only use drinking-quality tap or bottled water for cleaning.
- Take apart and wash all parts that come in contact with the breast and breast milk immediately after use to avoid drying of milk residue and to prevent growth of bacteria.
After each use
Clean all parts that come in contact with your breast and breast milk.
Supplies Needed:
- Mild Dish Soap
- Clean Dish Towel or Soft Brush
- Clean Sink or Bowl
- Quality Drinking Water
- Separate breast shield from connector.
![Medela - Swing - After each use - Step 1 After each use - Step 1]()
- Twist and pull the yellow valve off the connector.
![Medela - Swing - After each use - Step 2 After each use - Step 2]()
- Remove the white membrane from the yellow valve.
![Medela - Swing - After each use - Step 3 After each use - Step 3]()
- Rinse in cool water all separated parts that came in contact with breast and breast milk in order to remove breast milk residue.
![Medela - Swing - After each use - Step 4 After each use - Step 4]()
Assembly
Parts you will need for this step:
- Motor unit
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- Breast shield
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- White membrane
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- Breast milk bottle and lid
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- Tube
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- Connector
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- Yellow valve
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Note
- Inspect valves for cracks or chips and inspect membranes for holes, tears or warping. If you notice any damage to these parts, replace them immediately.
Info
- Carry out all the steps with care and assemble the pump kit correctly for optimum performance.
Assembly of pump kit
- Wash hands before touching breast pump, kit and breasts and avoid touching the inside of containers or lids.
![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 1 Assembly of pump kit - Step 1]()
- Snap membrane onto valve until membranes lies completely flat on valve.
![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 2 Assembly of pump kit - Step 2]()
- Push yellow valve securely onto inner ring of connector.
![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 3 Assembly of pump kit - Step 3]()
- Screw bottle onto connector.
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- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the breast and pump parts.
- Insert PersonalFit ™ breast shield into top opening on connector.
![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 5 Assembly of pump kit - Step 5]()
- Insert hard yellow adaptor end of tube into connector.
![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 6 Assembly of pump kit - Step 6]()
- Insert the triangle end of tube into triangle port on motor unit.
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![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 8 Assembly of pump kit - Step 8]()
Twists, kinks or bends
- Use only the power adaptor supplied with your Swing Breast Pump.
- Always inspect the power adaptor prior to use for damaged, kinked, twisted, frayed or exposed wires. If damaged, immediately discontinue use and call Medela Customer Service at 1-800-435-8316.
Note
- See Section Battery Compartment for instructions on the use of the Battery Compartment.
- See Section Traveling Outside the U.S. for information on using your device internationally.
- Plug the metal end of the power cord into the power adaptor port.
![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 9 Assembly of pump kit - Step 9]()
- Plug power adaptor into a standard electrical outlet.
![Medela - Swing - Assembly of pump kit - Step 10 Assembly of pump kit - Step 10]()
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- While some discomfort may be felt when first using a breast pump, using a breast pump should not cause pain.
- If you are experiencing discomfort at the base of the nipple due to rubbing of your breast tissue with the breast shield tunnel, use of a lubricant such as Tender Care Lanolin TM may be beneficial.
- For assistance with correct breast shield sizing and comfort please visit www.medelabreastshields.com or see a lactation consultant/breastfeeding specialist.
PersonalFit ™ Sizing
- Medela's PersonalFit sizing
Pumping should not hurt. For maximum comfort and pumping efficiency, Medela offers five breast shield sizes.
Visit MedelaBreastShields.com to view the full guide to help you determine your optimal size based on your nipple diameter.
![Medela - Swing - PersonalFit sizing PersonalFit sizing]()
- Test your breast shield size
- Start with the 24 mm that came with your pump, or the size determined by measuring.
- Center nipple and gently hold breast shield against your breast.
- Adjust for Maximum Comfort Vacuum™, to achieve optimum suction level.
- Refer to images while pumping in expression.
Too Small
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- Nipple rubs along side of tunnel
- Try a larger size
Correct Fit
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- Nipple is centered and moves freely
Too Large
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- Nipple and excessive areola are pulled into the tunnel
- Try a smaller size
- Should you try a new size?
- Does your nipple rub sides of tunnel, to the point of causing discomfort?
- Do you see excessive areola being pulled into tunnel?
- Do you see any redness?
- Is your nipple or areola turning white?
- Do you feel unexpressed milk after pumping?
If you answered "YES" to any of these questions, consider trying a new size by following the measuring instructions above.
If you are still unsure if you selected the correct size, see a lactation consultant, breastfeeding specialist, or visit MedelaBreastShields.com for assistance in choosing the right size breast shield.
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- While some discomfort may be felt when first using a breast pump, using a breast pump should not cause pain. If you are unsure about breast shield sizing, please contact a healthcare professional or breastfeeding specialist who can help you get a proper fit.
Powering your pump
Power Adaptor Care
To care for your adaptor be sure to follow these storage directions.
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Do not wrap cord of power adaptor around the plug body.
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Correct!
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Do not unplug power adaptor by pulling on the cord.
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Correct!
Note
- Remove the batteries if they are not going to be used for an extended period of time.
- If breast pump does not turn on, make sure the batteries have been inserted properly. If this does not solve the problem refer to the troubleshooting section of this instruction booklet or contact Medela Customer Service at 1-800-435-8316.
- Each set of batteries will provide approximately 2 hours of pumping time.
- Do not mix old and new batteries.
- Do not mix alkaline, standard (carbon-zinc) or rechargeable batteries.
Battery Compartment
- Use 4 AA batteries.
![Medela - Swing - Battery Compartment - Step 1 Battery Compartment - Step 1]()
- Replace all batteries at the same time.
Remove battery cover by pushing the button toward the clip.
![Medela - Swing - Battery Compartment - Step 2 Battery Compartment - Step 2]()
- Place the NEGATIVE (-) end of the battery against the front of the spring by pushing the battery in and down in one motion until the battery snaps into place. The POSITIVE (+) end of the battery should be near the positive sign on the battery pack.
![Medela - Swing - Battery Compartment - Step 3 Battery Compartment - Step 3]()
- Replace battery cover.
![Medela - Swing - Battery Compartment - Step 4 Battery Compartment - Step 4]()
Note
- While travelling internationally, we recommend purchasing a Universal Power Plug Adapter (not included). Please consult with the country you are visiting to find out what type of adaptor will work best. For information about traveling with your breast pump and expressed breast milk, visit www.TSA.gov.
Pumping
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- Always inspect breast shield, connector, white membrane, yellow valve, and tube prior to use for cleanliness.
- If you experience pain while pumping seek advice from your healthcare professional or breastfeeding specialist.
- Do not try and express with vacuum that is too high and uncomfortable (painful). The pain, along with potential breast and nipple trauma, may decrease milk output.
- Make sure tube is not kinked or pinched while pumping.
- Contact your healthcare professional or breastfeeding specialist if you can express only minimal or no milk or if expression is painful.
Info
- Research has shown that you will pump more efficiently – get more milk in less time – when pumping at Maximum Comfort Vacuum during the Expression Phase.
- You should reassess your Maximum Comfort Vacuum throughout your pumping experience because it can change during the different stages of lactation.
- Do not tilt or overfill containers when pumping.
- Do not kink tubing.
Device Operation
- Wash hands before touching breast pump, kit and breasts and avoid touching the inside of containers or lids.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 1 Device Operation - Step 1]()
- Center the assembled breast shield over your nipple.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 2 Device Operation - Step 2]()
- Hold the breast shield onto your breast with your thumb and index finger. Support your breast with the palm of your hand.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 3 Device Operation - Step 3]()
- Switch on the breast pump with
. Your pumping session will start in the Stimulation Phase.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 4 Device Operation - Step 4]()
- After two minutes, the pump will automatically change to the Expression Phase.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 5 Device Operation - Step 5]()
- If you let-down (your milk starts to flow) sooner than 2 minutes, press the let-down
button. - If let-down has not happened during the Stimulation Phase and the pump has switched to the Expression Phase, press the on/off button
to turn the pump off. Press the on/off button again to turn the pump back on to go back to pumping in the Stimulation Phase.
- The vacuum can be adjusted in every phase. Comfort vacuum: Use
to increase the vacuum until it is slightly uncomfortable. Then press
to dial it back minimally.
Note: The LED light will flash rapidly when you have reached minimum and maximum pumping settings.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 6 Device Operation - Step 6]()
Note
- Always disconnect Swing ® from the power source after expression.
- Only fill the bottle to the 150 mL mark.
- Swing switches off automatically 30 minutes after last setting adjustment.
Info
- How often should you pump? A breast pump is a replacement for when you are separated from your baby. It is important to pump when the baby would be breastfeeding, which usually means a working mother pumps 2-3 times during an 8 hour working day.
- How long should your pumping session last? Pumping times can vary from mother to mother sometimes 15 minutes, sometimes up to 30 minutes.
- How should your breasts feel after pumping? After pumping, your breasts should feel soft and there should be no firm areas. Before pumping, your breasts will have a firm, heavy feeling. After pumping make sure your breasts are not firm or have lumpy areas. This could indicate that the breast is not draining all over.
- Switch off the breast pump with
.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 7 Device Operation - Step 7]()
- Close the bottle with a lid. Follow the instructions in Section "Storing and thawing breast milk". Use bottle stand to prevent the bottle from tipping over.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 8 Device Operation - Step 8]()
- Unplug breast pump from power source.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 9 Device Operation - Step 9]()
- Disassemble and clean per Cleaning Instructions.
![Medela - Swing - Device Operation - Step 10 Device Operation - Step 10]()
Overview of LEDs
lights up | On |
does not light up | Off |
even, regular flashing | Stimulation phase |
light constantly on | Expression phase |
rapid flashing | Min./Max. vacuum |
Swing ® is small and lightweight, and comes with everything you need.
Mobility
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Use on any tabletop or flat surface.
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Clip onto your belt or pocket.
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Hang around your neck, over your shoulder, or from a hook.
Storing, Preparing and Feeding Breast Milk
Storing Breast Milk
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- Do not thaw frozen breast milk in a microwave or in a pan of boiling water.
- Do not microwave breast milk. Microwaving can cause severe burns to baby's mouth from hot spots that develop in the milk during microwaving. (Microwaving can also change the composition of breast milk.)
- When freezing, do not fill container more than 75% full to allow space for expansion. Label container with date of pumping.
Freshly Expressed Breast Milk Storage Guidelines (For Healthy Term Babies) |
Room Temperature | Cooler with Ice Pack | Refrigerator | Freezer |
4–6 hours at 66–78°F (19–26°C) | 24 hours at 59°F (15°C) | 3–8 days at 39°F or lower (4°C) | 6–12 months 0– - 4°F (-18– - 20°C) |
References: www.BreastmilkGuidelines.com
Preparing Breast Milk
- Thaw breast milk overnight in the refrigerator. Thawed breast milk is safe in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Do not refreeze thawed breast milk.
- Quickly thaw breast milk by holding the bottle under warm running water.
- Place the sealed bottle in a bowl of warm water for 20 minutes to bring it to body temperature.
- If you are adding expressed breast milk to a container of already frozen breast milk, make sure to add a lesser amount than the already frozen amount.
Feeding Breast Milk
It is recommended that breastfeeding is well established prior to bottle feeding your baby.
- Always inspect the bottle, nipple and other components immediately before and after each use. If nipple appears cracked or torn, discontinue use immediately.
- To prevent possible choking hazard, test strength of nipple by pulling on bulb portion of the nipple.
- Do not attempt to enlarge the nipple hole.
- Infants must not be bottle fed without adult supervision.
- Nipple should not be used as a pacifier.
For additional Breast milk collection and storage information, please visit www.BreastmilkGuidelines.com
Troubleshooting
Low or No Suction | Valve and Membrane Check - Remove and separate valve from membrane.
- Inspect the valve for chips or cracks. Inspect the membrane for holes or tears. If flawed or damaged replace valve and/or membrane prior to pumping.
- Wash valve and membrane per Cleaning section.
- Reassemble. Make sure the membrane lays flat on the valve, and if it does not, replace the valve and/or membrane prior to pumping.
Breast Shield and Connector Check - Inspect breast shield and connector to make sure there are no cracks and they securely attach to each other.
- Make sure the breast shield forms a complete seal around the breast.
Connection Point Check Inspect following connection points to ensure attachment is secure - Tubing adapter to connector.
- Tubing end to motor unit.
- Check that the tubing is not kinked or pinched.
- Other: Perform steps of troubleshooting Section "milk in motor".
- Test vacuum. If suction is not improved, contact Medela Customer Service at 1-800-435-8316.
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Power source | - Make sure pump is plugged in correctly. Pump will NOT turn on if tubing is plugged into the AC adapter port.
- Make sure the "on" button is being held between 1 and 3 seconds.
- Do not repeatedly hit the on/off button, or hold the on/off button down longer than 3 seconds.
- If using batteries, make sure transformer is not plugged into pump.
- If using batteries, make sure batteries are installed correctly inside pump.
- If pump is still not working with the power adaptor or the battery compartment, contact Medela Customer Service at 1-800-435-8316.
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Condensation or milk in tubing | - Refer to "Tubing and motor unit cleaning" section.
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No "let-down" or breast milk expression | - Ensure your breast pump is assembled correctly and that there is suction.
- Relax and take a 10-15 minute break if let down is not achieved after 2 consecutive pumping sessions.
- Consult with your healthcare provider or breastfeeding specialist if expression does not occur.
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Milk in Motor
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Turn off the pump and unplug from power source.
- Open the battery cover, remove the foam piece. Wash the foam piece with clear, lukewarm water and squeeze out well. Allow to dry thoroughly.
- Pour about 2 oz of warm soapy water into a container.
- Connect the tubing and the power cable onto the pump.
- Hold the device with the control button upwards over a basin and switch on. Press
and ensure that the lowest vacuum level is set by pressing
twice. - Hold the end of the tubing that is not connected to the pump in the container with the soapy water.
- The water is pumped through the tubing into the device. Allow it to pump until all the water has been flushed through.
- Repeat procedure with 1 oz of clear, warm water.
- Then leave the device switched on for 3 minutes, until the pump is completely dry.
- As soon as the expanded-plastic liner is dry, put it in place again and close the battery cover.
- If necessary, clean the pump set according to cleaning instructions "Prior to first use and once daily".
Following are some common breastfeeding related conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare professional or breastfeeding specialist.
| Symptom | Potential Causes |
Engorgement | Breasts are hard and uncomfortable, possibly with reddened areas. | Milk not draining properly from breast. Milk can drain back into the tissue causing areas to swell and become tender. |
Blocked/Plugged Ducts | Area of breast will look reddened and may be tender to touch. | Milk not being drained from a specific duct. The area becomes 'clogged' up and milk is then prevented from flowing. |
Mastitis | It often follows on from engorgement but can just occur suddenly. The initial symptoms are similar to flu – fatigue, headache and muscle aches, fever and localized breast tenderness. It can be in one or even both breasts and needs immediate treatment. | A bacterial infection in the breast tissue which is often accompanied by cracked nipples. |
A Healthcare Professional or Breastfeeding Specialist can give you guidance in breastfeeding your baby and using a breast pump. Their guidance is valuable in terms of the lifetime of health benefits for both you and your baby. A listing of Lactation Professionals are available at www.medelalocator.com or call 1-800-TELL-YOU (1-800-835-5968). |
If you have not resolved the problem with your breast pump or your have further questions, please contact Medela Customer Service at 1-800-435-8316 or email customer.service@medela.com.
Technical Specifications
![Medela - Swing - Technical Specifications Technical Specifications]()
Important Safeguards
When using electrical products, especially when children are present, basic safety precautions should always be followed.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT.
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To reduce the risk of electrocution:
- Always unplug electrical product immediately after use.
- Do not use while bathing.
- Do not place or store product where it can fall or be pulled into a tub or sink.
- Do not place or drop into water or other liquid.
- Do not reach for a product if it has fallen into water. Immediately unplug from electrical outlet.
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To avoid fire, electrocution, or serious burns:
- Do not leave product unattended when plugged into an electrical outlet.
- Close supervision is necessary when this product is used near children or persons with disabilities.
- Use the product only for its intended use as described in this manual. Do not use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer.
- Never operate this product if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water.
- Keep cord away from heated surface.
- Never use while sleeping or when drowsy.
- Never drop or insert any object into any opening or tubing.
- Do not use outdoors, or operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used where oxygen is being administered.
- Always inspect power adaptor and battery pack wires prior to use for damage or exposed wire. If damage is found, immediately discontinue use of power adaptor or battery pack and call Medela Customer Service at 1-800-435-8316.
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To avoid health risk and reduce the risk of injury:
- This product is intended for use by a single user only and should not be shared between users.
- Do not drive while pumping.
- Never use while pregnant, as pumping can induce labor.
- Clean and sanitize all parts that come in contact with your breast and breast milk prior to first use.
- Wash all parts that come in contact with your breast and breast milk after every use.
- Inspect all appropriate pump components before each use.
- Do NOT continue pumping for more than 2 consecutive pumping sessions if no results are achieved.
- Do not thaw frozen breast milk in a microwave or in a pan of boiling water.
- If tube becomes moldy, discontinue use and replace tube.
- If breast milk backup occurs you must clean tube before your next pumping session.
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Can lead to minor injury:
- Do NOT wrap cord around adaptor body.
- Use only the power adaptor that comes with the Swing Breast Pump.
- Pump only with the breast pump in an upright position.
- Do NOT shorten tubing.
- Make sure the voltage of the power adaptor is compatible with the power source.
- Plug the power adaptor into the breast pump first and then into the wall socket.
- Do NOT use antibacterial or abrasive cleaners/detergents when cleaning breast pump or breast pump parts.
- Never put breast pump motor unit in water or a sterilizer, as you can cause permanent damage to the breast pump.
- Do not attempt to remove the breast shield from your breast while pumping. Turn the breast pump off and break the seal between your breast and breast shield with your finger, then remove breast shield from your breast.
- If pumping is uncomfortable or causing pain, turn the unit off, break the seal between the breast and the breast shield with your finger and remove the breast shield from your breast.
- Plastic bottles and component parts become brittle when frozen and may break when dropped.
- Bottles and component parts may become damaged if mishandled, e.g. dropped, over-tightened or knocked over.
- Take appropriate care in handling bottles and components.
- Do not use the breast milk if bottles or components become damaged.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Questions? Visit www.medela.com or call us at 1-800-435-8316.
Documents / Resources
References
Download manual
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
Download Medela Swing - Breast Pump Manual
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Swing and is the answer not in the manual?
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