What type of breast pump should I get?

There are so many breast pumps out there, and they come in all different shapes and sizes. How do you know which one to get!? All pumps are not created equal. When picking a breast pump you want to think about how and why you will be using it. Will you be exclusively pumping? Pumping only while at work? Pumping occasionally? After reading this post you will know 3 important things to consider when choosing a breast pump.

1) Power Source

Think about where you will be doing most of your pumping. Is it at home, at work, in the car?

Manual Pumps: A manual pump is powered by you! You use your hand to manually push down on a lever to create the suction in the pump. Manual pumps are inexpensive, so they are more accessible to all moms.

-I recommend this pump for moms who plan on only pumping occasionally when they are away from their baby or for quick comfort.

-I do not recommend this pump for moms who will be pumping at work, pumping exclusively or frequently.

Electric Pumps: Electric Pumps can be plugged into a wall outlet, and are powered by electricity. This type of pump is most consistent in suction strength and breast stimulation.

-I recommend this pump for moms who plan on pumping more than once per day.

-I do not recommend this pump for moms who will be pumping in a place where there is no electricity.

Battery Powered: Battery-powered pumps may have a rechargeable battery or need the batteries to be manually replaced when low. This type of pump may be inconsistent in suction strength and breast stimulation as the battery life decreases.

-I recommend this pump for moms who will be pumping on the go more than once per day. These are great for in the car, on an airplane, and when the power is out

-I do not recommend this pump for moms who will be pumping where electricity is always available.

*Many electric pumps also function as battery-powered pumps.

2) Stimulation Type

Will you need to pump one side at a time or both sides together?

Single Pumps: This type of pump only allows you to pump one breast at a time and offers lower levels of stimulation for your milk supply. Using a single pump often takes more time to get the same amount of milk and stimulation.

                -I recommend this pump if you will be pumping occasionally for bottle-feeding or milk storage. This is also great if you need to pump for comfort at times.

                -I do not recommend this pump if you will be pumping more than once per day or are trying to increase your milk supply.

Double Pumps: With a double pump, you can pump both breasts at the same time. Most double pumps can also function as a single pump, so it gives you more options for stimulation and milk removal. Pumping both breasts at the same time allows you to get milk out faster than a single pump and is more stimulating to your brain to maintain and increase milk supply.

                -I always recommend a double pump if you will be pumping more than once per day or pumping to increase your milk supply.

3) Suction Strength

The suction strength of breast pumps is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHG). A higher mmHG means a stronger suction strength. The average breast pump ranges from 200-300mmHG. When picking a breast pump, it is important to look at the max suction strength, but know that most women do not use the max suction strength when pumping. While pumping, you want to use the highest suction strength that is still comfortable for you. If pumping is uncomfortable because you’re using too high of a suction strength it can damage your nipple/areola and cause your body to actually release less milk. So, more suction does not always equal more milk.

 Talk with me today about what breast pump is best for you!

Learn more about what the Food and Drug Administration says about types of breast pumps.

I am a registered nurse in the State of Florida and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The content on this blog page is for informational and educational use only. I have taken reasonable steps to ensure that the information shared is accurate, but I cannot guarantee that it is free from errors. The information shared here does not take the place of a medical provider, nor establishes any kind of client relationship with myself as a registered nurse or a lactation consultant. I am not your IBCLC or RN unless you book a consult with me directly and we establish a patient/caregiver relationship.