Choosing a good breast pump involves several key steps, starting with insurance coverage and understanding the various types and features available.
Selecting the right breast pump is a crucial decision for many parents. It can significantly impact your breastfeeding journey, convenience, and milk supply. According to insights from TMH.org, making the right choice requires careful consideration of various factors tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
Here are the essential steps to guide you in choosing the best breast pump for you:
1. Start with Insurance
Before exploring options, check your health insurance coverage. Many insurance plans in the United States are required to cover breast pumps under the Affordable Care Act.
- Contact your insurance provider directly or visit their website to understand:
- Which types of pumps are covered (manual, electric, hospital-grade).
- If you need a prescription from your doctor.
- Whether you need to use a specific medical supply company or durable medical equipment (DME) provider.
- If there's a limit on the pump cost or type.
Understanding your insurance benefits first can narrow down your options and manage costs effectively.
2. Understand the Lingo
Navigating the world of breast pumps involves learning some specific terminology. Knowing the jargon helps you compare different models and understand their capabilities.
- Single vs. Double Pumping: Single pumps express milk from one breast at a time; double pumps express from both simultaneously, saving time and potentially increasing milk yield.
- Closed System vs. Open System: Closed systems have a barrier preventing milk from entering the pump's motor and tubing, reducing mold/bacteria risk and requiring less cleaning of tubing. Open systems lack this barrier, making them harder to clean and potentially less hygienic if not maintained perfectly.
- Expression Phase vs. Stimulation Phase: Electric pumps often have these modes. The stimulation phase uses rapid, light suction to mimic a baby's initial suckling and trigger milk letdown. The expression phase uses slower, stronger suction to efficiently remove milk.
- Flange Size: The part that fits directly onto your breast. The correct size is crucial for comfort and effective milk removal. Pumps usually come with standard sizes, but others may need to be purchased separately.
3. Explore Your Options
Breast pumps come in several main types, each suited for different needs and lifestyles.
- Manual Pumps: Operated by hand. They are portable, quiet, and inexpensive, suitable for occasional pumping or travel. They require manual effort.
- Electric Pumps: Use a motor for automatic suction.
- Single Electric Pumps: For occasional or part-time pumping.
- Double Electric Pumps: Ideal for frequent or exclusive pumping as they are more efficient.
- Hospital-Grade Pumps: Multi-user pumps available for rent (often through hospitals or DMEs). They have powerful, durable motors and are designed for establishing or maintaining milk supply, especially if a baby is unable to breastfeed directly.
- Wearable Pumps: Newer electric pumps that fit discreetly inside a bra, allowing hands-free pumping on the go.
Consider how often and where you plan to pump to determine the best type for you.
4. Consider Size and Weight
If you plan to pump outside the home, the pump's size and weight are important factors for portability.
- Evaluate how easily the pump fits into a bag and how heavy it is to carry around daily, whether to work, while traveling, or simply moving around the house.
5. Compare Motor Size
The motor's power and durability are key, especially for electric pumps used frequently.
- A stronger motor typically provides more consistent and effective suction, which is vital for maintaining supply when pumping regularly. Hospital-grade pumps have the most powerful motors.
6. Think About How Many Pumps You Need
Depending on your pumping routine, you might benefit from having more than one pump.
- One primary pump: Sufficient for occasional pumping or if you only need it at home.
- Two pumps: A stronger electric pump for home or work, and a smaller, more portable or manual pump for on-the-go or backup.
- Hospital-grade rental + personal pump: Sometimes recommended initially to establish supply, followed by a personal electric pump.
7. Consider: Do You Need a Wearable Pump?
Wearable pumps offer unparalleled freedom by allowing you to pump while doing other tasks.
- If you need to multitask frequently, pump discreetly in various locations, or prioritize hands-free convenience, a wearable pump might be an excellent option, either as your primary pump or as a secondary travel/portable pump.
8. Pay Attention to Details
Look beyond the main pump unit and consider the accessories and features.
- Power source: Does it need to be plugged in, or does it have a rechargeable battery for portability?
- Noise level: Some pumps are much louder than others.
- Included accessories: How many bottles, flanges (and in what sizes), and spare parts are included?
- Ease of cleaning: Are the parts easy to assemble, disassemble, and wash?
- Availability of spare parts: Can you easily purchase replacement flanges, valves, and tubing?
- Warranty and customer support: What is the warranty period, and how responsive is the manufacturer's customer service?
By carefully considering these eight points, as highlighted by TMH.org, you can make an informed decision and choose a breast pump that best supports your breastfeeding journey.
