WHICH BREAST PUMP IS BEST FOR ME?
When it comes to selecting a breast pump there are a dizzying number of options out there. This article will give you some options that have been tried and tested. As lactation consultants we hear first hand the experiences of our clients and which pumps give good results and we will pass along what we have learned to help you make your decision. Over your lactation journey, you may end up spending quite a lot of time with your pump, so taking your time now to make the best decision possible will save you aggravation later.
Here are the most important things to consider when buying your pump.
Does your insurance cover it?
It is always a good idea to contact your insurance and get the low down on the procedure. Do you buy your own pump now and apply for reimbursement or do you need to follow some process to get your benefit? It varies wildly by insurance company so best to check early to avoid disappointment
Wearable vs Stand Alone Electric
We can put a man on the moon but when it comes to lactation technology, sadly we still can’t seem to invent a wearable pump that matches the strength of a stand alone pump. If you plan to exclusively pump or have a preemie or twins that require you to pump a lot in the first 6 weeks while your supply is being established, you may want something sturdier and more efficient, so go with the stand alone double electric. If you plan to pump periodically or need something convenient for your return to work you should be able to get away with just a wearable pump, but be aware it may take you longer to get out the same amount of milk as the traditional pumps.
Pumps wear out!
Your sister in-law gave you her old pump? That is awesome!! But you may want to change out specific parts or even have the pump serviced to make sure it's still in top working order. Most pump manufacturers recommend changing out the tubing, silicone parts and backflow inhibitor every three months to ensure pump efficacy.
Here is the “PNB SCOOP” on our top three Stand Alone pumps and top three Wearable pumps
DOUBLE ELECTRIC STAND ALONE PUMPS
Spectra
Hands down the number one pump we see in use out there with our clients is Spectra. This is a great double electric stand alone pump that is covered by most insurance. The main difference is the S1 has a rechargeable battery addition that makes it more portable and convenient, and the S2 is more affordable.
Medela
This is the age old classic, Medela has been around since the 1960’s and was one of the first commercial breast pumps available to lactating women. They have definitely kept up with the times and remain one of the leading brands in the breast pump world. In an effort to keep up with the new wearable types they have hands free flanges that you can buy in addition to the baste pump to get the best of both worlds.
Ardo
This is a top brand in Europe and used in many NHS hospitals in the UK. A great inexpensive option compared to some other brands and comes with numerous flange sizes and inserts as standard.
WEARABLE PUMPS
Elvie
Elvie was the first wearable pump to hit the market and one of the first real breast pump innovations in decades. When this little bad boy hit the market we all stood up and paid attention. Not long after this revelation all the other wearables began to emerge. You can’t go wrong with the original; it’s a decent little pump. It is incredible convenient and discrete, excellent for on the go, but also significantly more expensive than the rest.
Mom Cozy
Another big brand we are seeing more and more in use. Once Elvie broke the seal it lead the way for cheaper and more innovative wearable style pumps to emerge. Mom cozy definitely does what it says on the tin.
Zoomie
Another great choice that give you the best of both worlds. This is commonly sold as a wearable pump but it also has the option of the traditional flanges you see with the stand alone pumps as well.
This is not an easy task, especially when you’re about to embark on a loooong and intimate journey with whichever pump you choose! Please reach out with any questions or comments! We are here for you! info@pacificnorthbreast.com
Happy Pumping,
The Breasties!
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