What You Need to Know About Breast Pumps and Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby. But for some moms, it doesn't always come easy. That's where breast pumps come in. Breast pumps can help you increase your milk supply, latch your baby, and even pump milk for later use. At Weiner's Home Health Care Center, we take great pride in providing breast pumps from leading suppliers. Your options include:
- Medela breast pumps
- Spectra breast pumps
- Ameda breast pumps
- Lansinoh breast pumps
- Megna breast pumps
With so many different types of breast pumps on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. This guide will walk you through the different types of breast pumps, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. If you’re still curious as to which pump would be right for your or have general questions about pumping, please click the button below.
Manual vs. Electric Breast Pumps
While manual pumps are hand-operated, electric pumps give you the convenience of a motor that's used to create suction, doing the work for you. But that convenience comes at an additional cost. Here's how they compare:
| Feature | Manual | Electric |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Hand-operated | Motor-operated |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Convenience | Less convenient | More convenient |
| Ease of Use | More tiring | Easier to use |
| Noise | Quieter | Louder |
Single vs. Double Breast Pumps
Single vs. Double refers to a double's ability to express milk from both breasts at the same time, increasing efficiency and reducing the need for pumping throughout the day.
| Feature | Single | Double |
|---|---|---|
| Pumping Mode | One breast at a time | Both breasts simultaneously |
| Efficiency | Less efficient | More efficient |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Size | Smaller | Bulkier |
Open vs. Closed System Breast Pumps
Open vs. Closed refers to how the pump handles airflow and potentially exposes the breast milk to contaminants.
| Feature | Open System | Closed System |
|---|---|---|
| System Type | Open to air | Closed system |
| Hygiene | Less hygienic | More hygienic |
Hospital-grade Breast Pumps
Hospital-grade breast pumps are the most powerful type of breast pump available. They are often used by mothers who have premature babies or who have difficulty breastfeeding. Hospital-grade pumps are typically rented or provided by insurance companies.
Wearable Breast Pumps
Wearable breast pumps are hands-free pumps that can be worn under your clothes. They are a good option for mothers who want to pump discreetly or who need to get things done while pumping.
Your Budget for Breast Pumps
Manual pumps are the most affordable option, followed by electric pumps, which are often covered by insurance. Wearable pumps and hospital-grade pumps are the most expensive and may result in out-of-pocket costs outside of insurance coverage. Here's how you can see if your insurance will cover your new pump:
- Contact your provider
- Ask which brands and models are covered
- Get a prescription from your doctor, if needed
- Fill out the insurance form below to order your pump
Additional Factors to Consider When Choosing a Breast Pump
- Consider your lifestyle and if you're going to be pumping daily or just occasionally
- Think about whether or not you'll need to be able to pump on the go often
- Take into account accessories like bags, bottles, and coolers