A breast pump is a necessity for new moms, though not all moms will use them regularly. Even if you don’t intend to pump regularly, they come in handy when your breasts are engorged and during emergencies when you aren’t able to follow your breastfeeding schedule. The best breast pump for you depends on a number of factors.

How will you use the breast pump?

Some moms use a breast pump to maintain or increase their milk supply. Others use them to relieve engorged breasts or to draw out flat or inverted nipples to make latching easier. The most important thing to consider when researching breast pumps is how you plan to use it.

Manual versus electric breast pumps

• A manual pump is perfect for breastfeeding moms who just need engorgement relief or an emergency backup for power outages.
• An electric pump is a better option for working moms who need to express larger quantities of breastmilk quickly in order to build up a stash.

 Single versus double breast pumps

• Single electric breast pumps are sufficient for moms who only intend to express milk to supplement breastfeeding.
• Double electric breast pumps cut your pumping time in half, so they’re better for moms who have busy schedules and want to build up a breastmilk supply.

What kind of settings does the breast pump offer?

Many moms believe that a higher suction level will increase their milk supply; however, the reverse can be true. In some cases, a higher suction level can compress breast tissues and cut off milk flow from milk ducts. Breast pumps with multiple settings allow moms to find their maximum comfortable vacuum by adjusting speed and suction. This ensures that you’re maximizing milk flow during pumping sessions.

Where will you be pumping?

If you’re pumping at home, a traditional double electric breast pump like the Spectra S1 Double Electric Breast Pump offers comfort and power. If you’re working or on the go, you may prefer a portable pump like the Elvie Stride or the Willow ® Generation 3 Wearable. Portable breast pumps are usually quieter and often fit discreetly into a nursing bra so you can literally pump anywhere.

Is the breast pump covered by your insurance plan?

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, breast pumps and accessories are covered by all new insurance plans. However, not all breast pumps are covered completely. Some premium pumps, like the Elvie Pump, may only be partially covered by health plans. The following pumps are a few of the pumps completely covered by most insurance plans, including Tricare, Geisinger, and Aetna:

• Elvie Stride Double Electric Breast Pump
• Motif Luna & Duo
• Medela Pump in Style with MaxFlow
• Spectra 9, S1, and S2
• Ameda Mya Joy Double Electric Breast Pump

Have other questions you need answered before you buy your breast pump?

Milk N Mamas baby is owned and operated by women who have experienced the challenges and joys of breastfeeding and pumping. We have more than two decades of experience in the medical device supply industry, but our specialization is in breast pumps, pumping essentials, and breast pumping accessories. We’re leaders in our industry, and we’re here to help you find the best breast pump for you.