Pumps can be really useful in your breastfeeding journey. But how do you choose from the wide range of pumps available?
There are many different pumps
So what I am going to do here, is first help you define which kind of breast pump you need. Once you know that, I’ll point you the ones my
And the first question you need to answer is…
Manual Pump VS. Electric Pump
With a manual pump the suction action is triggered by the squeezing of your hand. The electric pump on the other hand uses a motor to drive the pump.
But which do you choose! Well this is why you are here. Below is a table to help you work this out! Just read through the questions and see where you lie.
Now let’s delve a little further into each question in case you need more clarification. (Or if you need advice on pumping head over to my Pumping blog!)
Question 1: First up pumping less than once a day. This means you are a “sometimes” pumper. You prefer to breastfeed but want the option to pump just in case. It may be weeks or months between pumping or once a day. A manual is good for this.
Question 2: Pumping more than three times a day is more like a necessity. For example, you may have damaged nipples and are resting them. You may be needing to top up your baby with extra milk over and above a
Question 3: If you are on a budget and rather save your dollars then a manual wins out. Except if you fall under the other categories then see if someone can gift a pump to you! Everyone wants to buy the new parents something!
Question 4: The next question surrounding low milk supply is important. If you are trying to increase your supply and decrease the use of formula, Then first, you NEED to read my blog on How to cut down formula without more pumping!
I know this sounds silly, cut down formula without pumping! But what I mean is extra pumping. You will see when you read it. Just think about investing in a good electric pump to save you time!
Question 5: Finally, a baby born early, under 37 weeks is considered premature. A premature baby takes longer to learn how to breastfeed so you will need to do lots of pumping to help bring your milk in! An electric pump is worth it!
Just a little word about recommendations! As a Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) I cannot recommend a particular pump. I will say many of my clients let me know what they like. But always do your own research and make an informed decision.
Manual Pumps Mums Like
So here are a few manual pumps that mothers have found great, you can look at these two first:
And:
Electric Pumps Mums Like
When it comes to best electric breast pumps, the mothers I work with are raving about these three:
But wait! How do you know if you need a single or a Double pump?! Here comes the answer:
Single Pump VS Double Pump
Single pumps are just as they sound. They come with one kit for you to pump one breast at a time. Double pumps come with two kits to pump both breasts at the same time.
The double pumps generally have an option to do single or double but with a single pump you don’t have the option.
Double are more expensive so before you spend your dollars check out my table to work out what is the best option for you!
Now you have a snap shot, a little about the benefits of double pumping so you have all the facts.
There are two advantages of double pumping. Firstly, you will spend less time on the pump. Secondly, pumping both breasts together can stimulate your hormones to make more milk as you are extracting both breasts together.
This does not mean you NEED a double pump. However, I do recommend you invest in a double pump if you have a premature baby. Pumping will be a big part of your life therefore maximising your pumping sessions is a must.
Now………Once you have read the table you can make a decision for your circumstances. But, if you are still pregnant and shopping for a pump then my recommendation is set a budget and see what fits into this.
Before you go I will address a few tips that will help you on your journey!
Pumping Tips
Tip #1: Every breast is a different size as well as different size nipples. So there is not a one size fits all. You can buy different size flanges for your pump. The flange is the plastic part of the pump that covers your breast and nipple.
If you have a large nipple then a larger size is best for you. The size refers to the diameter of the part that surrounds your nipple. Most pumps come with a standard medium size flange which is 24mm.
If you are unsure have a look at the Medela website for your personal fitting guide.
Tip #2: Assess the reason WHY you are pumping. Pumping can get very time consuming and is hard to sustain.
So if you are pumping to relieve pain, experiencing low milk supply or trying to cut down formula then you may need more help. Contact me for a consult 0414 403 208 or visit my services page.
Tip #3: You CAN hand express if you don’t want to buy a pump. You can get just as much out by hand after some practice. It can even be quicker than a pump. SO, if you are strapped for cash head over to my hand expressing video to learn more.
Tip #4: If you are unsure about which one to buy then hiring a breast pump may be the option for you. Just add up the price to hire versus buying your own. Mostly you will be charged a deposit, a weekly fee and you will have to buy a kit that connects to the pump to use it. It all adds up!
Just do the math and see what is better. My advice, if you are planning on more children then investing in your own good electric pump would be the go.
Tip #5 : Before you think a double might be better; watch my video’s on 3 steps to pumping success. In this video I talk about breast massage or squeezing your breast while pumping. You need a second hand for this so single pumping is better.
Time to head off, just before I go you can head over to my blog 3 Steps to Pumping Success to read even more!!
Good luck on your breastfeeding journey!! Don’t forget to contact me if you need targeted help 0414 403 208.
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