Welcome to the wonderful world of breastfeeding and pumping! Whether you’re a seasoned mom or a soon-to-be parent, choosing the right breast pump can feel like navigating a maze of options. But don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through it! Let’s dive into the different types of pumpers and help you find the perfect pump for your situation!
Potential Pumper:
Who You Are: You’re expecting or just starting to breastfeed and aren’t sure if you’ll need to pump.
Best Pump: Go for a versatile, middle-of-the-road pump that can adapt to your evolving needs. Most available pumps will work for you, and you can always upgrade if your pumping needs change. Spectra S2 would be perfect, or the Motif Luna would also be a great option.
Why: Flexibility is key. You might not need a heavy-duty pump now, but having a reliable option on hand is always a good idea.
Occasional Pumper:
Who You Are: Breastfeeding is your main gig, but you need a pump for less than 25% of your milk removal needs.
Best Pump: Any decent pump will do the trick! Look for something reliable but don’t worry about the heavy-duty models. Some brands that would work for you would be Spectra S2, Motif Luna, or Medela Pump N Style.
Why: Since you’re not relying on the pump too much, almost any pump will suffice. Pick one that’s easy to use and clean.
Combination Nursing/Pumping:
Who You Are: You split your time between nursing and pumping, with pumping making up 25-75% of your milk removal.
Best Pump: Durable and semi-portable pumps are your best bet. You need something that can keep up with frequent use. While I do not suggest using a wearable pump as your main method of milk removal, sometimes having a reliable one can be a great second pump option! Some of my favorite wearables are the Elvie/ Elvie Stride, the Willow/Willow Go and the Zomee Fit. The Stride and the Go are more affordable options of the Elvie and Willow and still do a fantastic job of removing milk. But the Zomee wearable is the most affordable option that is completely hands and tubing free. Here is a link to check it out! https://zomee.com?sca_ref=5228740.fm0rohnVGV&utm_source=affiliate-rachel-baggett&utm_medium=socialmedia&utm_campaign=5228740&utm_term=influencer
Why: The more you pump, the more you’ll need a sturdy, reliable pump. Look for something that’s a good mix of portability and durability.
Pump Dependent Combination Nursing/Pumping:
Who You Are: You mostly nurse, but your baby can’t yet manage your milk supply on their own.
Best Pump: You’ll need a strong, durable pump similar to what an exclusive pumper would use. Think Spectra S1, or renting a hospital grade Medela Symphony pump.
Why: Whether due to supply issues or your baby’s needs, you’ll rely heavily on your pump. A powerful pump is essential to keep up with your milk production.
Special Circumstances Pumper:
Who You Are: You’re pumping under challenging conditions, like having an ill baby or dealing with low milk supply.
Best Pump: A strong, reliable pump that can handle your unique situation. Spectra S1 or renting a hospital grade Medela Symphony would be great options for you!
Why: Special circumstances require special care. A high-quality pump can make a world of difference when you’re facing extra challenges.
Exclusive Pumper:
Who You Are: Pumping is your primary method of milk expression.
Best Pump: Go for a high-strength, durable primary pump. You will also want a backup pump in case of emergency or broken parts. I recommend having the Spectra S1 and a manual hand pump as well as a wearable pump for convenience.
Why: Since you’re pumping exclusively, you need a pump that can handle the job without faltering. Balancing strength and convenience will make your life easier.
Choosing the right breast pump is like picking the perfect pair of shoes—comfort, durability, and style all matter! Happy pumping, and remember, you’ve got this!
*Look for my next blog post all about optimizing wearable pumps coming soon!