Find the perfect device for yourself: how to choose the right breast pump?

Introduction

Some people have the impression that if the baby is completely breastfed, then the mother does not need any additional tools. But, no matter how great the desire to do everything “naturally” and “the old fashioned way,” it should be recognized that the conditions and lifestyle of the modern mother have changed. Most often, she has to spend her maternity leave in multitasking mode, as well as reduce the time before going to work. Breastfeeding mothers may be away without always being able to offer the breast to their baby. When there is a long gap between feedings, milk accumulates in the ducts and causes discomfort to the mother. In this case, a breast pump comes to the rescue - a modern tool that allows you to solve many problems and prevent problems with feeding. The best breast pump for you is the one that will meet your requirements for pumping frequency, physiological capabilities and feeding regimen. We will tell you how to understand the intricacies in this article.

Types of breast pumps

Home and clinical – breast pumps are divided into these two large classes. In other words, they can be professional or domestic.

Professional or clinical

Breast pumps are used in maternity hospitals to help women with lactation problems. Or for those who experience temporary stagnation of milk due to the fact that the baby is not nearby and the natural rhythm of feeding is disrupted. Such devices operate on mains power, are almost silent, and the vibration during pumping is virtually imperceptible. This breast pump imitates a sucking mechanism that is close to physiologically natural.

Household or home

devices are divided into 2 types:

• mechanical (manual)
• electrical (electronic).

Manual breast pump

- an easy-to-use device that operates either on the principle of a piston or has a pump mechanism. A pump breast pump is a nozzle that is applied to the breast (shaped like a funnel) and a rubber bulb with which the device is activated. It is necessary to frequently squeeze and unclench the bulb to ensure the flow of milk from the mammary gland. This type of breast pump is cheap, easy to disassemble and clean. But with frequent pumping, it can contribute to the formation of cracked nipples. Fatigue may occur during use.

There are breast pumps that look like a syringe. They consist of two cylinders. Internal - is applied to the nipple, and the outflow of milk occurs due to the movement of the external cylinder. Very easy to use and clean. But the hands get tired moving the cylinder, and this causes considerable discomfort. A piston breast pump also requires constant hand movement, but it is more powerful and more convenient. The breast attachment attaches to a reservoir (bottle or container) and has a lever that, when pressed, acts like a piston to help the silicone attachment stimulate the breast. Expresses milk quickly and painlessly. Using a piston system is much more convenient than expressing breast milk by hand. The process is virtually painless and rewarding. The mechanism, squeezing and unclenching the nozzle, provides breast massage. The woman herself can regulate the pace and intensity of the impact.

Electric breast pump

– helps to effortlessly express the required volume of milk in the shortest possible time. The principle of its operation is the same as that of a mechanical one - creating a vacuum around the nipple and affecting the areola and adjacent part of the breast. Only in this case, stimulation (compression and release) occurs not manually, but with the help of an electric motor powered by the network or using batteries. An electric breast pump can be equipped with one or two funnels. Accordingly, pumping is done either simultaneously or from each breast in turn.

The best inexpensive breast pumps

High cost does not always guarantee better quality. Mechanical breast pumps have a similar design, so cheap models may not differ at all from expensive ones. And if you believe the reviews, some of them are much better in quality and more convenient to use. But it’s worth paying attention to the package – often the price is lower, because the set does not have enough accessories that will have to be purchased separately.

Baboo 2-001

New UK brand Baboo introduces a manual piston breast pump with accessories. It simplifies the process of collecting food as much as possible, guarantees efficiency and safety. The new generation design will allow you to do this in any body position. The first thing the model offers is an ergonomic handle that controls the correct position of mommy’s hands. Relief elements prevent slipping. The set consists of a nipple with a bottle and cap, breast pads, a silicone funnel, an adapter, and a spare silicone valve. Functionality is a three-phase system, that is, three intensity modes. The adjustment is made using a special switch. The ultra-soft silicone nozzle acts as a massager due to 5 vacuum petals. A convenient bottle has been designed for comfortable feeding. An anatomically shaped nipple is also included. This kit is complemented by a system of 3 air valves that evenly distribute air in the container so that it does not enter the baby’s tummy.

Advantages

• Three phase system
• Convenient bottle
• Massager attachment with 5 petals
• Anatomical nipple
• Ease of use
• Compact, light weight

Flaws

• No storage case
• Small volume of milk container

World of Childhood 19212

Piston-type breast pump World of Childhood 19212. It with all components is packaged in an attractive box and can serve as a necessary gift for a young mother. The model has a nice appearance and is decorated with a colored inscription. The device is completely made of safe materials. The milk is expressed directly into the bottle, and the baby can be fed without pouring the milk into other containers. Additionally, another wide-neck bottle is supplied. Both of them are quite spacious, with a volume of 260 ml. The device must be used strictly in a vertical position, otherwise milk will begin to leak. The kit includes spare parts (nozzle and valve), this allows you to increase the overall service life. The device is easy to operate and maintain. It can be sterilized in the microwave and can be washed in the dishwasher. Most customers are satisfied with this product, but among the shortcomings are creaking during operation and a slow pumping process.

Advantages

• Price
• Ease of use
• Easy to clean
• Equipment
• Large volume of bottles

Flaws

• Pumps slowly
• Creaks when working

Canpol Babies Basic 12/205

Breast pump Canpol Babies Basic 12/205 is a Polish product. The decanting mechanism is piston, complete with a bottle with a capacity of 125 ml, a silicone nipple, a funnel, a stand and a bottle cap. There is a measuring scale. Most reviews are positive; many users note that the hand does not get tired during the process, which cannot be said about more expensive models. Comfortable chest pad, soft, fits tightly. Intense suction power, but gentle work, the breast is not injured. The material is of high quality, does not turn yellow or deform during use. Some owners complain about a poor connection to the bottle, but this is the exception rather than the rule. The design has a small number of elements, so the device is easy to disassemble and assemble. Convenient to use while the baby is suckling on the other breast. The device is equipped with an adapter, thanks to which you can use any bottles from Canpol Babios, as well as other companies, with both a wide and narrow neck, with the milk pump. The device comes with detailed instructions and tips on expressing milk and storing it.

Advantages

• Low price with good quality
• Convenient design
• Easy to assemble/disassemble
• Works silently
• Good suction power

Flaws

• Some products have screw-on elements that come off
• The funnel is not for everyone

Medela Harmony Basic

Manual breast pump with two modes of operation Medela Harmony Basic, ergonomically shaped, simulating the process of natural breastfeeding.
This is a compact, lightweight device that will not take up much space even in a small bag. The model from the Swiss brand Medela is easy to disassemble and assemble, easy to clean and sterilize. The ergonomically shaped lever has a soft rubberized surface. The manual breast pump features 2-Phase Expression technology to stimulate milk production. It involves starting pumping on the short side of the lever, which sets a fast rhythm that imitates the sucking of a hungry baby. After pumping, you can switch to working with the long side of the handle. Specifications:

Number of modes – 2;

Includes: stand, spare membrane.

Advantages

• 2 suction modes
• Good build quality
• Spare part included
• Gentle pumping
• No squeaks during use

Flaws

• The delivery set does not include a nipple for the bottle

Nuk Luna

This device is relatively inexpensive. At the same time, it is quite convenient and functional. This is an excellent option for those who do not want to express by hand, but do not intend to spend large sums on a breast pump. The device has two-phase stimulation and is easy to clean and sterilize. Unfortunately, it does not have much power and may not be suitable for those with a fairly large milk volume.

Advantages

• convenient shape and compact size
• two-phase pumping
• ease of assembly and use
• Can be powered by mains or batteries
• it's affordable

Flaws

• Can't handle large volumes
• inconvenient power adjustment

How to choose a breast pump and what to look for

When it becomes clear that manually expressing milk does not give the desired results (the process is labor-intensive and time-consuming), the question arises - which breast pump to choose. Some mothers, having compared manual expression and using a clinical breast pump, are seriously thinking about buying a professional device for home.

In this case, it’s worth thinking about: would you buy a professional coffee machine for your home (one that would take up half the room and require considerable investment in consumables) just because you were delighted with a cup of coffee in a restaurant? It is unlikely that such an acquisition will be justified. But if you are a coffee lover and are willing to pay for the taste of coffee with other resources, then no one will convince you. By the way, a clinical breast pump can be rented. This option will be much more economical for you.

Still, household breast pumps are more suitable for home use. But which breast pump is better - manual or electric, you will understand by answering some questions and comparing the facts.

How often do you plan to feed your baby expressed milk? If you rarely go away and prefer to store several containers frozen for “insurance,” then purchase a device that is effective for rare uses (manual piston).

If you intend to use a breast pump regularly (for some reason the baby does not latch on, you go to work and plan to be absent all day), then it is better to purchase a powerful electric device. In this case, the costs are completely justified. You can save time and put in less effort.

Which breast pump is best if you're constantly on the go? Most likely portable, battery-powered. It will make it most comfortable for you to move around and follow your baby’s feeding schedule.

The table will help you choose the best breast pump for you.

If you find it difficult to choose the type of manual breast pump or you have a question about which electric breast pump is better to buy (rent), do not buy this device before giving birth. Make a selection of models, make a list with characteristics. Find out at what price they can be purchased. And after the baby is born, make your final choice. The mohtercare website blog and the specialized “feeding” section will help you decide.

Below we will introduce you to the main brands of breast pump manufacturers to help you form a holistic view of this accessory.

The best manual breast pumps with pump mechanism

Pump breast pumps are another category of hand-held devices for collecting breast milk. Unlike piston ones, the device is driven by squeezing and unclenching a special bulb. Pump devices remain the cheapest, but are often inferior in efficiency to piston devices. At the same time, they are comfortable, lightweight and equipped with a special button that allows you to relieve pressure. If the breast pump diaphragm is pressed too tightly against the breast, this function allows you to eliminate discomfort.

Chicco Classic

The famous Italian brand Chicco has been producing children's products of the best quality for many years. This breast pump is no exception. Based on a pump mechanism, it allows you to express milk with particular convenience. Compared to similar models, the Chicco breast pump is equipped with an optimally shaped funnel. An important difference between the device is the material of manufacture. High-strength plastic ensures durability, and a special formula without the addition of bisphenol-A makes use absolutely safe for both mother and baby. The set includes a bottle with a nipple, a cap, and a stand. Another important advantage is light weight (only 200 g). This makes it possible to take the device with you on the road. Women in the reviews note its ease of use.

Advantages

• safe materials
• convenient design – the pump is separate from the funnel
• better strength
• good wear resistance
• easy to use
• stylish appearance
• good equipment
• great price
• positive customer reviews

Flaws

• my hands get very tired

Canpol Babies 15/200

The manual breast pump “Canpol Babies” will preserve and prolong breastfeeding.
It will protect a nursing mother from breast fullness and mastopathy. The unrivaled pumping system ensures milk flows straight into the bottle. A woman has the opportunity to sit down comfortably, lean on her elbows and relax during the pumping process. The rhythm of pumping depends on the force of squeezing the bulb. The firmly pressed valve creates a good vacuum to achieve the best effect. The breast pump can be sterilized. It is easy to disassemble and rinse. The box with the device contains a latex pacifier for babies from 0 to 3 months. Weight: 130 g. Manufacturer: Great Britain. Specifications:

type of device: manual pump breast pump;

safety: environmentally friendly materials;

in the package: 1 plastic bottle 125 ml with a cap, 1 latex nipple, case, 1 silicone massage funnel, bottle stand;

Advantages

• Ease of use
• good vacuum
• low pain sensations
• inexpensive

Flaws

• does not express completely
• difficult to press the pear

Kievguma Albert

Kievguma Albert – breast pump with a plastic reservoir. Its simple design is reliable and durable - there is simply nothing to break in it. The production uses safe materials that are not afraid of heat treatment, that is, the entire breast pump can be boiled and sterilized. The pear is made of high-quality rubber and does not transmit an unpleasant odor or taste to the milk. Unlike most simple pump breast pumps, the Albert allows you to pour the expressed liquid into a bottle and feed your baby. Albert is an inexpensive and easy to use breast pump. It is suitable for infrequent use. The model copes with collecting foremilk with a bang, but it will not help with expressing hindmilk and breaking up lumps during lactostasis.

Advantages

• low price
• reliability of design
• easy to use
• no unnecessary details
• compact
• made of safe durable plastic

Flaws

• small milk tank

Major Breast Pump Brands

The best manual breast pumps with a piston mechanism

Piston breast pumps operate using a suction system and are somewhat reminiscent of a medical syringe. At the moment when the piston is pulled out, the pressure in the apparatus changes. This is the principle of operation of piston breast pumps. Most often, the set of piston devices includes a container with measuring divisions intended for collecting milk. The products are also equipped with special silicone attachments that protect the breasts from accidental injuries during the process, as well as provide massage of the mammary glands, which makes it easier to express breast milk.

Chicco Natural Feeling 05740.00

The famous Italian brand “Chicco” offers a manual piston model that stands out among its analogues in ergonomics. Laconic design, ease of use, reliable and high-quality assembly are not all its advantages. The nozzle that is applied to the chest is made of soft silicone. The optimal diameter is suitable for any size of mammary glands. The manufacturer also includes a bottle, a stand, and an anatomically shaped nipple that simulates natural feeding. The adapter will allow you to combine the device with another container. For ease of pumping, an ergonomic handle is provided; the soft coating prevents slipping. There is a limiter on the inside of the handle that reduces vibration and noise during operation. The materials are safe, they do not creak or cause any discomfort during the entire operation. The softness and pumping speed are significantly higher than other devices of this type.

Advantages

• Ergonomics
• Assembly reliability
• Minimal vibrations
• Adaptation to any bust size
• Soft silicone membrane
• Adapter for any bottle

Flaws

• Price
• Inconvenient bottle included

Philips AVENT Natural SCF330/13

Perhaps the most popular breast pumps from the piston category.
The manual Philips AVENT does its job no worse than an electric one, and the presence of a silicone diaphragm and petal massager provides an imitation of the touch of a baby’s mouth and a gentle massage of the breast during pumping, which creates conditions for the fullest possible functioning of the mammary glands and helps prevent the possibility of congestion. In the ranking of the best, Philips AVENT Natural is noted as the most convenient breast pump. The special shape of its nozzle allows you to express milk without bending forward, as you often have to do when using similar devices. Therefore, the mother can sit in the chair without straining or taking uncomfortable positions. The set includes 3 milk containers. All parts requiring cleaning and sterilization can be easily removed.

Tommee Tippee 9007

This breast pump is considered the most mobile piston breast pump.
The Tommee tippee Closer to nature manual piston breast pump will help you express milk from an overfilled breast efficiently, conveniently and painlessly. Funnels made of high-quality silicone with transverse rings perfectly envelop the breast, which ensures better milk absorption. The breast pump operates in stimulation mode and pumping mode. The handle of the device provides full control of the device. The breast pump is assembled from just a few components, which simplifies washing, sterilizing and drying the product. This device is fully adapted to any TommeeTippee milk container. When purchasing, you don’t have to worry that the bottle or sippy cup won’t fit, and you don’t have to take the device with you. The box comes with a special container for sterilizing milk. Manufacturer: England. Specifications:

type of device: manual piston breast pump;

safety: environmentally friendly materials;

in the box: 1 plastic bottle 150 ml with a cap, 1 silicone nipple, breast pads, container for accessories, 1 silicone massage funnel, bottle stand, adapter;

Advantages

• comfortable
• qualitative
• inexpensive
• presence of sterilization
• presence of a container for storing milk

Flaws

• heavy lever
• incomplete fit of the funnel

Maman LS-A06

The device tops the rating due to its convenience and well-thought-out packaging.
Maman LS-A06 is made of environmentally friendly plastic that does not contain BPA. The manual principle of its operation makes it possible to control the intensity of the pumping process, squeezing and unclenching your hand with more or less force. Included: a massager made of soft and elastic silicone, which provides additional stimulation to the skin around the nipples, so the process is as reminiscent of natural feeding as possible. Because of this, many women believe that these breast pumps are the best. The kit also includes: a nipple, a pair of bottles for expressed milk (each with a volume of 140 ml), a spare valve for the pump, a lid to protect the funnel.

The lightness and compactness of the device make it comfortable to use in any conditions. You can take it with you on the road, to work, or transport it in an ordinary medium-sized handbag. And if an electrical device requires the presence of an outlet or the presence of batteries, then a manual one works completely autonomously.

Additional products for breast pumps

When using a breast pump, sometimes it becomes necessary to replace spare parts (if they are lost or damaged). You can also choose some accessories that are not included in the kit, but will make using the breast pump easier.

As a rule, manufacturers offer the opportunity to purchase separately:

• replaceable hand pumps;
• massage inserts (silicone pads for breast pump funnels);
• sets of spare parts (consumables).

The most common addition to breast pumps are bags and containers for freezing breast milk.

Containers are purchased according to the selected breast pump. This will allow you to immediately attach them to the device using adapters, without the need for transfusion.

You can purchase any packages. On the mohtercare website, a large range of milk storage products is presented.