Understanding the Three Types of Breast Pumps and Their Best Uses
- Tiny Human Co. .
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Breastfeeding can be a rewarding but sometimes challenging experience. For many mothers, breast pumps become essential tools to support feeding, whether to relieve engorgement, maintain milk supply, or feed a baby who cannot latch. Choosing the right breast pump depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. This post explains the three main types of breast pumps and when each works best.
Manual Breast Pumps for Occasional Use
Best uses for manual pumps:
Mothers who only need to express milk once in a while
Occasional relief from engorgement or clogged ducts
Situations where portability is important, such as outings or work breaks
Mothers who want a quiet, discreet option
Manual pumps require you to create suction by squeezing a handle or lever. This means pumping can take more time and effort compared to electric models. For mothers who pump frequently or need to build milk supply, manual pumps may not be the most efficient choice.
Wearable and Single Electric Pumps for Moderate Use
Wearable breast pumps and small electric pumps offer more convenience and efficiency than manual pumps. These devices use a motor to create suction, allowing hands-free or one-handed pumping.
Wearable pumps fit inside a bra and collect milk directly into a collection cup. They are discreet and allow mothers to move freely while pumping. These pumps are ideal for mothers who pump once or twice a day and want to multitask during pumping sessions.
Small electric pumps typically have a motor with tubing connected to a collection cup or a breast shield/bottle set up. They are portable and often battery powered, making them suitable for moderate pumping needs.
Best uses for wearable and small electric pumps:
Mothers who pump once or twice daily
Those who want to pump discreetly at work or on the go
Parents who value mobility and multitasking during pumping
Mothers with a moderate milk supply who do not need to pump both breasts simultaneously
These pumps offer a balance between convenience and effectiveness. However, they may not provide the suction strength or speed needed for mothers who pump frequently or exclusively.
Primary Pumps for Building and Maintaining Milk Supply
Primary breast pumps, also called "hospital-grade" are designed for mothers who need to build and maintain a their milk supply. These pumps are powerful, efficient, and often used by mothers who's baby is unable to latch, or who choose to exclusively pump and bottle feed.
The thing with the "hospital grade" phrase is it is simply a marketing buzz word. There is no industry standard for testing or functionality that companies need to meet to call their pump "hospital grade".
Key features to look for in a primary pump:
Double pumping capability to express milk from both breasts simultaneously
Adjustable suction levels and cycle speeds, to best customize the suction pattern to meet your needs
Motor capable of higher suction strength, ideally above 200mmHg
Replaceable flanges, to get a custom fit
Best uses for primary pumps:
Mothers who pump multiple times a day to establish or increase milk supply
Parents of babies who cannot breastfeed directly due to medical issues
Mothers who want to maintain milk production while separated from their baby
Situations requiring reliable, consistent milk expression
Primary pumps tend to be more expensive and less portable than manual or wearable pumps. However, their efficiency and effectiveness make them the best choice for mothers with intensive pumping needs.
Choosing the Right Pump for You
Selecting the right breast pump depends on your lifestyle, pumping frequency, and breastfeeding goals. Here are some tips to help you decide:
Consider how often you will pump. Occasional use fits manual pumps, moderate use suits wearable or single electric pumps, and frequent use calls for primary pumps.
Think about portability. Manual and wearable pumps are easier to carry and use discreetly.
Evaluate your milk supply needs. If you need to build or maintain supply, a primary pump is best.
Check your budget. Manual pumps are the most affordable, while primary pumps are an investment.
Consult a lactation expert. They can recommend the best pump based on your baby’s feeding needs and your health. The Tiny Human Company's IBCLC's are always happy to talk pumps!
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