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Harnessing modern technology to enhance childbirth, the Elvie Stride is a revolutionary device designed to empower women with comfort and control during labor. Its sleek, discreet design belies an array of advanced features, promising a more personalized and empowering birthing experience. However, mastering the subtleties of this innovative tool is essential to reaping its full benefits. This comprehensive guide will meticulously guide you through the steps of using the Elvie Stride, ensuring you embrace its potential and navigate labor with confidence.
Before embarking on this journey, it is imperative to create a personalized birth plan that aligns with your unique needs and preferences. The Elvie Stride seamlessly integrates with your plan, allowing you to customize settings and receive tailored guidance throughout labor. Familiarize yourself with the device’s various modes, including labor tracking, pain relief, and perineal support, so you can confidently navigate its functionality and harness its benefits during each phase of labor.
With the Elvie Stride firmly in place, you can embrace the transformative power of technology during labor. Its advanced sensors monitor your contractions with precision, providing real-time insights into the intensity and duration of each surge. This invaluable information empowers you to make informed decisions about your pain management strategy, allowing you to choose the most effective methods based on your own unique needs. Additionally, the Elvie Stride offers a range of soothing vibration patterns designed to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation, enhancing your overall birthing experience.
Setting Up Your Elvie Stride
Getting started with your Elvie Stride is a breeze. Follow these steps to ensure a seamless setup process:
1. Unbox and Charge:
– Remove your Elvie Stride and accessories from the packaging.
– Connect the charging cable to the stride’s magnetic port and plug it into a USB power source or adapter (not included).
– The LED indicator will glow white while charging and turn off once fully charged (approximately 2 hours).
– Ensure the stride is fully charged before your first use.
2. Download the Elvie Stride App:
– Search for “Elvie Stride” on the App Store or Google Play.
– Download and install the app.
– Create an account or sign in if you already have one.
3. Pair Your Elvie Stride:
– Open the Elvie Stride app and follow the on-screen instructions.
– Press and hold the power button on your Elvie Stride for 3 seconds to turn it on.
– The app will automatically search for your Elvie Stride and prompt you to connect.
– Once connected, you can access the full range of features and functionalities through the app.
Refer to the following table for a detailed breakdown of the LED indicator lights:
| LED Indicator | Status |
|---|---|
| White (pulsating) | Charging |
| Green (solid) | Fully charged |
| Blue (solid) | Connected |
| Orange (solid) | Low battery |
| Red (solid) | Error |
Connecting to the Elvie App
To connect your Elvie Stride to the Elvie App, follow these steps:
1. Download the Elvie App
Download the Elvie App from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Create an Account
Create an account with Elvie. You will need to provide your email address, create a password, and accept the terms and conditions.
3. Pair Your Elvie Stride
Once you have created an account, follow these steps to pair your Elvie Stride:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn on Bluetooth on your phone. |
| 2 | Open the Elvie App and tap “Add a new device.” |
| 3 | Select “Elvie Stride” from the list of devices. |
| 4 | Follow the instructions in the app to complete the pairing process. |
Once your Elvie Stride is paired, you can use the Elvie App to track your activity, set goals, and stay motivated.
Choosing the Right Cup Size
Finding the right cup size for your Elvie Stride is essential for a comfortable and leak-proof fit. Follow these steps to determine your perfect size:
- Measure your nipples: Use a ruler or measuring tape to find the distance between the centers of your nipples. Record the measurement in millimeters (mm).
- Measure your bust: Wear a non-padded bra that fits comfortably. Measure around the fullest part of your bust, including your nipples. Record the measurement in mm.
- Compare your measurements to the Elvie Stride size chart:
Nipple Distance (mm) Bust Measurement (mm) Elvie Stride Size 22-26 650-720 Small (S) 27-32 730-820 Medium (M) 33-38 830-940 Large (L) 39-44 950-1070 Extra Large (XL) - Fine-tune your fit: If you’re between sizes, it’s recommended to choose the smaller size for a more secure fit. If you’re prone to leaks, you may want to try the larger size.
- Disassemble the Stride: Remove the breast shield and bottle from the motor.
- Wash the Components: Use warm water and fragrance-free soap to gently wash the breast shield, bottle, and motor (avoiding the motor’s charging port).
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all components with clean water until all soap residue is removed.
- Air Dry: Place the components on a clean surface and allow them to air dry completely before reassembling.
- Sterilize: For optimal hygiene, you can sterilize the breast shield and bottle using steam, UV light, or boiling water (follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each method).
- Avoid harsh chemicals or dishwashers: These can damage the delicate components of your Elvie Stride.
- Clean regularly: To prevent milk residue buildup, it’s recommended to clean your Stride after each use.
- Use a soft cloth: Use a microfiber or cotton cloth to wipe down the motor unit and avoid scratching it.
- Remove Batteries: Always remove the batteries before storing the Stride.
- Keep it Dry: Store the Stride in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight.
- Use the Storage Case: The included storage case provides a protective and convenient way to store your Stride and accessories.
- Assemble the pump by attaching the flanges to the breast cups.
- Insert the breast cups into your bra and align the nipples with the flanges.
- Connect the breast cups to the pump motor.
- Start the pump by pressing the power button on the pump motor.
- Adjust the suction level using the buttons on the pump motor or the Elvie app.
- Monitor your pumping progress on the Elvie app.
- Once you have finished pumping, press the power button to stop the pump.
- Disconnect the breast cups from the pump motor.
- Store your breast milk in the included collection cups.
- What is the Elvie Stride? The Elvie Stride is a wearable breast pump that allows you to pump hands-free and on the go.
- How does the Elvie Stride work? The Elvie Stride uses a gentle suction to draw milk from your breasts. The milk is then collected in a reusable container.
- Is the Elvie Stride comfortable to wear? Yes, the Elvie Stride is designed to be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. It is made from a soft, flexible material that conforms to your body.
- How long can I pump with the Elvie Stride? You can pump for up to 2 hours on a single charge.
- How do I clean the Elvie Stride? The Elvie Stride is easy to clean. All of the parts that come into contact with milk are dishwasher safe.
- Phone: 1-800-813-7660
- Email: support@elvie.com
- Live chat: Available on the Elvie website
- Mail: Elvie, 33-34 Warple Way, London, W3 8RL, United Kingdom
- Wash your hands and pump parts. Before handling the Elvie Stride or any of its parts, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Also, wash all of the pump parts in hot soapy water and sterilize them before first use.
- Assemble the pump. To assemble the Elvie Stride, simply attach the flanges to the pump bodies and insert the breast shields into the flanges. Make sure that the flanges are securely attached to the pump bodies and that the breast shields are properly inserted into the flanges.
- Put on the pump. Once the pump is assembled, put it on by inserting the breast shields into your breasts. The breast shields should fit snugly against your breasts, but they should not be too tight or too loose. Adjust the flanges to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Start pumping. To start pumping, simply press the power button on the pump. The pump will automatically start cycling through its pumping phases. You can adjust the suction level by pressing the “+” or “-” buttons on the pump. You can also pause the pump at any time by pressing the power button.
- Empty the milk. Once you have finished pumping, empty the milk from the pump bottles. To do this, simply unscrew the bottles from the pump bodies and pour the milk into a storage container.
Remember that finding the right cup size can take some trial and error. If you’re not sure which size is best for you, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional bra fitter.
Storing and Cleaning Your Elvie Stride
Cleaning Your Elvie Stride
To ensure the longevity and hygiene of your Elvie Stride, proper cleaning is crucial. Follow these steps:
Additional Tips for Cleaning
Storing Your Elvie Stride
When not in use, store your Elvie Stride properly to protect it from damage or contamination:
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Elvie Stride Not Connecting
Make sure that Bluetooth is turned on and that the Elvie Stride is within range (up to 30 feet). Check if the Elvie Stride is fully charged and try restarting the app.
2. Breast Shield Doesn’t Fit
Select the breast shield size that fits most comfortably and creates the best suction. Refer to the sizing guide in the Elvie Stride user manual for assistance.
3. Leaking or Overflow
Ensure that the breast shield is securely attached to the bottle and positioned correctly on the breast. Check if the valves are clear of any obstructions and the membranes are securely in place.
4. Pain or Discomfort
Adjust the suction level to a comfortable setting. Position the breast shield properly and ensure that it is not too tight or too loose. If discomfort persists, consult a healthcare professional.
5. Not Producing Enough Milk
Check that the pump is functioning properly and that the breast shield is the correct size. Ensure that you are using the pump regularly and stimulate your breasts both before and after pumping.
6. Battery Life Issue
Charge the Elvie Stride fully before using it. If the battery drains quickly, check if the LED lights on the bottles are not lit unnecessarily. Consider purchasing additional batteries for extended pumping sessions.
7. Troubleshooting Specific Error Messages
| Error Message | Solution |
|---|---|
| “Please connect breast shield” | Ensure that the breast shield is properly attached to the bottle. |
| “Pump failure. Please contact support” | Contact Elvie customer support for assistance. |
| “Valve blocked” | Check if any milk or debris is blocking the valve. Clean the valve as per the user manual. |
| “Membrane not detected” | Insert a new membrane securely and try again. |
| “Battery low” | Charge the Elvie Stride fully before using it. |
Maximizing Milk Expression
1. Find the Right Flanges
The correct flange size is crucial for comfort and milk output. Experiment with different sizes until you find the ones that fit snugly without causing pain or pinching.
2. Position Correctly
Place the flange over your nipple with the base of the flange against your breast tissue. Tilt the flange slightly backwards to ensure that the nipple is centered and comfortable.
3. Use a Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to your breasts before pumping can help stimulate milk flow and make the process easier.
4. Massage Your Breasts
Gently massaging your breasts while pumping can assist in expressing milk and prevent clogs.
5. Express Frequently
Regular pumping intervals encourage milk production. Aim to pump at least 8 times a day for optimal milk output.
6. Use a Double Pump
Pumping from both breasts simultaneously can remove more milk in less time, maximizing efficiency.
7. Maintain a Comfortable Environment
Create a relaxed and comfortable environment for pumping, as stress can inhibit milk flow.
8. Advanced Tips for Increasing Milk Output**
**a. Power Pumping:** Alternate between shorter (2-5 minute) pumping sessions and longer rest periods (10-15 minutes) for 1-2 hours. This stimulates milk production.
**b. Cluster Feeding:** Nurse your baby or pump frequently for several hours, then take a longer break. This mimics the natural sucking patterns of a newborn and boosts milk production.
**c. Fennel, Blessed Thistle, and Goat’s Rue:** Incorporate these herbs into your diet or supplement regimen, as they have been anecdotally shown to increase milk supply.
Using Wearable Technology with Stride
Elvie Stride is a wearable breast pump that offers a hands-free and discreet pumping experience. It pairs with the Elvie app, allowing you to track your pumping sessions, adjust suction levels, and monitor your milk output.
How to Use Elvie Stride
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Elvie Stride:
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Here are some common problems you may encounter when using Elvie Stride, along with troubleshooting tips:
| Problem | Troubleshooting Tips |
|---|---|
| The pump is not turning on | Check that the pump motor is connected to the breast cups. |
| The suction is too weak or too strong | Adjust the suction level using the buttons on the pump motor or the Elvie app. |
| Milk is leaking from the breast cups | Check that the breast cups are properly assembled and inserted into your bra. |
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Elvie Stride:
Customer Support
If you have any questions or concerns about the Elvie Stride, you can contact customer support by:
Elvie’s customer support team is available Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm CST.
In addition to the above, you can also find helpful information on the Elvie website, including FAQs, user manuals, and troubleshooting tips.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The Elvie Stride is not working | Check the battery and make sure it is charged. Check the pump parts to make sure they are properly assembled. If the problem persists, contact customer support. |
| The Elvie Stride is leaking | Make sure the flanges are properly fitted to your breasts. Check the valves to make sure they are clean and free of debris. If the problem persists, contact customer support. |
| The Elvie Stride is uncomfortable to wear | Make sure the flanges are the correct size for your breasts. Adjust the straps to ensure a comfortable fit. If the problem persists, contact customer support. |
How to Use Elvie Stride
Elvie Stride is a revolutionary new breast pump that offers a completely hands-free pumping experience. It is the first pump that can be worn inside a standard nursing bra, allowing you to pump discreetly and comfortably while you go about your day. Here are the steps on how to use Elvie Stride:
People Also Ask About How to Use Elvie Stride
How often should I use Elvie Stride?
You can use Elvie Stride as often as you need to pump breast milk. However, it is important to not pump more than 8-10 times per day, as this can lead to overproduction of breast milk.
How long can I pump with Elvie Stride?
You can pump with Elvie Stride for up to 2 hours at a time. However, it is important to take breaks every 20-30 minutes to prevent breast engorgement.
Can I use Elvie Stride while I am sleeping?
No, you should not use Elvie Stride while you are sleeping. This is because the pump can be a choking hazard if it is used while you are sleeping.
