Deciding what breast pump to use can be an overwhelming task. There are so many options and factors that need to be considered when making the decision, one might even say it’s a big decision.
Whether you’re looking for something portable or discreet, electric or manual, there is a breast pump out there for everyone. In this blog post we’ll cover some of the most popular choices and how they compare to each other!
What is a breast pump and how does it work?
A breast pump is a device that helps mothers extract milk from the breast. When suction is applied to the nipple, it causes the muscles around the areola and ducts in your breasts to contract, which squeezes milk out of them. The milk may then be collected by bottle or bag so that it can be used later for feeding or other purposes.
What to consider when choosing a breast pump:
• What type of pump do you need? For personal use, or for work and travel?
• Do you have a medical need that requires electric vs. manual pumps specifically, like IVF treatment?
• How often will the pump be used (daily/weekly)?
• Will it be used in public places, such as an office setting where noise is distracting or not socially acceptable for others around you to hear? If so, would sound cover up some of the noises made by your pump–or might it make them louder and more noticeable?
• Do you prefer battery operated versus corded models?
• How frequently does your baby nurse on one side at each nursing session?
What type of pump is best for you?
There are three different types of pumps available on the market today: manual, electric (including double-electric) and hospital grade (these are always electric!).
Manual pumps are typically more affordable and can be used anywhere as there’s no need for an outlet; however, they require the user to perform much of the work and take some time as well.
Electric breast pumps offer convenience in that all you have to do is hold the pump to your breast and it does all the work for you. They can be plugged in or battery operated but are typically more expensive than manual pumps.
Manual Pumps
Manual models are better if you plan on pumping only occasionally – they allow for greater control over how far apart or near together breasts should be squeezed during suctioning action.
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A manual breast pump is best for those who plan to use the pump on an exclusive basis and do not need a double-sided model. One drawback of a manual pump is that it can be considerably slower than an electric model.
Manual pumps are operated by hand while electric ones need an outlet to be plugged into for power.
Manual models are better if you plan on pumping only occasionally – they allow for greater control over the pumps suctioning action.
The first step in purchasing a manual breast pump is deciding whether it will work with the kind of nipple you have (flat, inverted nipples) as different types come included with attachment rings that accommodate these variations.
Electric Pumps
An electric breast pump is a good choice for those who plan to use the pump on an exclusive basis and do not need a double-sided model; one drawback of this type of pump is that they are much more expensive than manual models but also have superior performance.
An advantage of these pumps though, in comparison with their hand powered counterparts, would be that they allow you to maintain your hands’ natural grip, which may help reduce carpal tunnel syndrome when pumping over long periods.
Regular Electric
A regular electric breast pump is best suited for nursing mothers who are not exclusively pumping or have an occasional need.
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While these pumps do not offer the same level of performance as hospital grade pumps, this type of pump is much more affordable than its counterparts.
There are many models available which make it difficult to choose but it’s important when selecting your model that you consider how often you’ll use the pump and what features matter most to you so that you can select something appropriate with no regrets.
Hospital Grade
A hospital grade breast pump is typically reserved for mothers who wish to exclusively feed their baby pumped milk or convert from breastfeeding exclusively.
I personally used the Medela Symphony after my son was discharged from the hospital. I was able to rent the pump from the hospital where he was born and then subsequently from a local breastfeeding center.
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Some working moms may also need constant access to expressed milk; and therefore, need a high-quality pump, these mothers will also need to purchase a storage system for milk and plan on scheduling times (with breaks) to maintain their supply.
Single or Double-Electric
Next, consider what type of electric pump will suit your specific needs?
If you’re only pumping occasionally – say at home before leaving on a trip–a single-electric breast pump may do the trick.
However, if you need a good supply of milk for frequent feedings (i.e., from both breasts) then an electric double-pump is probably best.
Bottom Line: A hospital grade breast pump may be worth the investment if you are a nursing mother who exclusively pumps and is unable to take breaks from pumping.
Benefits of an electric pump
What are the main benefits of electric pumps?
• They offer more control in suction power
• They’re easier for moms with flat or inverted nipples to get milk out
• They last longer than manual ones (they can be used as many times as needed without additional cleaning)
• And some have built-in bottles that allow you to store breast milk quickly and easily.
Are there any disadvantages related to using an electric pump? For most users, none! But if your breasts produce small amounts of milk at a time it may take longer with this type of pump; additionally, these models don’t work well when traveling due to their size.
Cost
A hospital-grade electric double pump will cost about $200-$300 more than a manual one with similar features.
It may also take longer to express as much milk when using an electric model because you need to use both hands – one hand for each side–to control the speed and rhythm of pumping instead of just pressing down on your chest at any time during pumping.
Buying vs. Renting
One option is renting a pump vs. buying. With renting usually comes less upfront cost; however, over time they become much pricier since you’ll have to pay rental fees on top of the purchase price.
The decision is up to you but know that there are a number of benefits and considerations for both options. And don’t forget that breast pumps are eligible for reimbursement under flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health spending accounts (HSA).
Here are some things to consider:
Renting can be less expensive upfront with more expensive long-term costs.
If your baby doesn’t drink much or takes bottles – renting may not work well as it’s harder to use without buying an additional pump accessory kit (which will cost more money).
Buying means owning outright so if something breaks down only one part needs replacing while everything on rent would need replaced.
Some people like having ownership over their breast pumps because they want them available all the time–regardless of where they live.
Others prefer renting since it provides flexibility.
Renters end up paying more for the same product because of maintenance fees and higher cost per month, but this may be offset by less upfront costs and a lower total cost over time.
Renting can make switching to exclusive breastfeeding easier–you don’t have to worry about buying another pumping system or finding where you left your old one! 😉
One option for those who may feel overwhelmed by which type of pump to get would be renting one out from your local Medela Breastfeeding Associate (MBA).
This way you won’t spend any money upfront but will still have access to high-quality equipment if needed. As always, we also recommend that you speak with your healthcare provider to ask for their opinion and advice!
If cost is of concern, ask for insurance information when registering at the hospital so it won’t be as much of an issue later.
Review what kind of coverage your company offers before deciding which breast pump is best for you.
A final word…
Choosing the right breast pump is an important decision, but it doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. As long as you remember these few simple considerations when choosing your breast pump and have enough information on hand from friends who may already use one, picking the perfect pump will be easy.
We hope this guide has been helpful and we wish luck in making your final choice!
Last update on 2022-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
