One of the many advantages of breastfeeding is that it doesn't cost anything. Well, at least the milk itself is free. Nevertheless, there are some expenses that nursing mothers may incur. One of the most significant of those expenses is the breastpump. A mother needs to find a pump that is right for her situation. Since so many options do exist, it is important to understand the differences in the many pumps that are available.
Manual Pumps
Manual pumps are often the least expensive option. A mother who is only pumping occasionally or who wants to nurse her baby on one side while she pumps the other may prefer this kind of pump. This is not the right pump for a mother who is pumping to maintain her supply or whose baby isn't nursing regularly. A couple of pumps stand out in this category:
- One of the best manual pumps available is the Ameda One-Hand Breast Pump. It's easy-to-use design is both comfotable and convenient. This pump is available with a Flexishield insert to help stimulate let-down. At a price of about $38 without the Flexishield, this is a great pump for the mom who only needs to pump occasionally. The only drawback would be for the mother with carpal-tunnel syndrome or arthritis, the squeezing motion can be uncomfortable.
- Another state-of-the-art manual pump is the Medela Harmony. This pump actually features a manual version of Medela's 2-Phase Expression technology. Move it one way, and it is supposed to stimulate letdown. Move it a different way, and it removes milk. This pump comes with a soft silicon breast shield. At a price of about $35, this is another terrific option for the occasional pumper. Once again, though, a mother with hand problems might find the squeezing motion a bit uncomfortable.
Battery Operated Pumps
Pumps in this category are more expensive than manual pumps, but they are not necessarily more effective. In fact many lactation consultants discourage the use of battery operated pumps. Some pumps in this category have even caused tissue damage to mothers who turned the suction up too high trying to get the milk out. Another drawback to many of these pumps is the need to continue putting new batteries in them. The only legitimate use for most battery operated pumps would be for the mother who is only pumping occasionally.
The one exception to this category is the new Medela Freestyle which has a rechargeable battery feature.
Mini-electric Pumps
Many manufacturers offer small single or double electric pumps that vary widely in their comfort and performance. When evaluating one of these pumps, factors to check include the availability of various breast shield sizes, variable levels for extraction, and ease of use. A mini-electric pump would not be a good choice for a mother who is returning to work and will need to pump more than one time a day. These pumps generally are not recommended for maintaining a milk supply.
Dual Electric Pumps
Several manufacturers offer pumping systems that feature simultaneous collection from both breasts, a powerful motor for good suction, and proven comfort. Double pumping offers several benefits:
- Reduced pumping time
- Increased prolactin levels
- In many cases, increased milk production
One option in this category that is both economical and highly effective is the Ameda Purely Yours. This pump, which starts at about $149, features Ameda's patented Hygienikit System. This is the only system to have received permission from the FDA to make the claim that it creates a barrier that protects both the collected breast milk and also the pump and kit tubing from potential contaminants such as viruses and bacteria.
Another highly recommended pump is the Medela Pump In Style. Starting at about $249, the Pump in Style Advanced features Medela's patented Two Phase Expression. When the pump is first turned on, it has a rapid, shallow suction to elicit letdown. Once the milk begins flowing, the pump goes into expression mode with deeper, more intermittent suction to help maximize the flow of milk.
However, Medela has just released a new pump, the Freestyle. This state-of-the-art pump features digital technology to record the mother's pumping preferences. It, too, has Two Phase Expression, and can be used as a hands-free pump so that a busy working mother can continue working as she pumps.
Hospital Grade Pumps
A hospital grade pump is usually rented by a hospital, pharmacy or lactation consultant. These pumps are larger with a more industrial motor. They are able to stimulate and maintain a mother's milk supply in the absence of any suckling from an infant. Both Ameda and Medela have spent countless dollars and hours researching the best technology for these pumps. Ameda offers the Elite Electric Breast Pump which uses the Hygienikit system. Medela offers two standard rental pumps, the Lactina and the Symphony. Although the Lactina is less expensive to rent, the Symphony features Two Phase Expression, and is an outstanding breastpump for the mom who is away from her baby.
Fitting the Breast Shield
It is vitally important that the breast shield fit the breast correctly to maximize both comfort and also milk collection. If a shield is too small, it will not allow the milk ducts to receive adequate stimulation. If it is too big, it will not seal on the breast correctly to establish a vacuum. Talk with your lactation consultant if you have concerns about how the shield is fitting.
A breast pump can be a lifesaver for any mom. It is wonderful to be able to pump a bottle of milk to leave so that Mom and Dad can enjoy a romantic date. Many times mothers have no choice but to return to work. Nevertheless, don't buy the first thing you see in the drugstore! Make sure you take the time to compare and get the best pump available for your situation.
Glenni Lorick - Glenni Lorick is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) from Huntsville, AL. She has 15 years experience working ...
