Purchasing a breast pump suitable for your needs is absolutely essential. But with so many options out there, how do you choose breast pump that's right for you? It's not like buying a crib, where pretty much one size fits all and works despite how hectic your lifestyle might be. A breast pump needs to be custom-fit around your lifestyle and needs. Experts recommend that mothers start pumping early on, introducing the bottle when the baby's 3 or 4 weeks old. Baby's have the tendency to start refusing the bottle if you wait too long to introduce it into their daily lives. Here are some helpful tips designed to help you choose just the right pump to suit your needs.
Hospital-Grade Electric Breast Pumps
Hospital-grade electric breast pumps are best for Moms who find themselves pumping all throughout the day. This might be because the Mom or the baby is unable to breastfeed for some reason. Hospital grade pumps are super-efficient and when you get one with a double collection kit - you have the most efficient breast pump around!
The double collection kit allows you to cut your pumping time by more than half by pumping both breasts at the same time. The rapid cycling time draws milk from the breasts at about the same rate as physically nursing a baby. One major downside is these pumps are large, heavy and bulky. Additionally, the cost is high. The average cost of a brand new hospital-grade breast pump is over $1,000. The good news is you can rent one for no more than a couple of dollars per day from a hospital, medical supply store or a variety of other locations. Check with your doctor for more information about availability in your area!
Electric Personal Use Breast Pumps
A high quality electric personal-use pump is more portable than hospital-grade models. Portability is a huge convenience factor, making this style of pump ideal for the working mother. They are fully automatic with double-pumping capabilities, quick cycling and offer adjustable suction levels designed to limit nipple discomfort.
Designed to be super convenient, they often come with an attractive carrying case and a slew of other accessories. Most high-end pumps are able to run on a car's cigarette lighter if you purchase a special adapter. Some are equipped with a built-in battery pack, either option making it especially easy to pump on the go. They are also considerably less expensive than a hospital-grade model - available for less than $500. Lightweight portable pumps are also available for rent.
Electric or Battery-Operated Breast Pumps
Super portable and lightweight, mid-range electric or battery-operated breast pumps are perfect for mothers who spend minimal time away from the baby. While these sorts of pumps are more affordable ($50 to $200) they do take longer and require more of an effort to use. Battery-operated pumps for instance may require frequent battery replacement which could become a nuisance. Additionally you are only able to pump one breast at a time, cutting down on efficiency.
Manual Breast Pumps
Probably the most affordable type of breast pump is the manual pump, ranging from $30 to about $60. These pumps require you to pump a piston to create suction that will empty your breast of milk. Some models might have a lever that you need to squeeze; instead of a piston but the end result is the same. Manual pumps are smaller, light weight and quieter than electric pumps but they are incredibly slow. Additionally, they only allow you to empty one breast at a time and may require two hands to operate which isn't the most convenient.
When choosing a breast pump, it's important that you do your research before buying. Definitely take advantage of all of your resources and don't feel pressured into buying one. Breast pump rental is a perfectly viable and safe option to consider. One definite no-no is sharing breast pumps with friends or family members. The FDA strongly recommends against sharing and buying used breast pumps for the simple fact that breast milk can carry bacteria and potentially harmful viruses. Pumps can easily be contaminated which would not be good for either you or your baby. Rental pumps and hospital pumps are designed for multiple users, preventing breast milk from getting inside the pump. Just make sure that you purchase your own personal collection kit and you're golden.