Your initial milk supply is triggered by the delivery of your placenta. However, following the initial letdown, you body begins to produce milk using a supply and demand system. This means that your body will produce enough breast milk to meet the needs of your baby(s). You can also stimulate additional milk production by pumping milk either with a manual or electric pump. Although I will share some ideas regarding how to go about choosing a breast pump, first let’s discuss some of the more common reasons that women choose to pump:
- Sometimes there is a medical reason that may prevent you from breastfeeding on a regular basis or there may be an extended period of time where you are not able to breastfeed. Pumping will allow you to make sure that your body continues to produce milk until you can resume breastfeeding.
- With many mothers having to return to work after only 6 months or less of maternity leave, they are forced to make a decision as the whether or not they want to continue to breastfeed. One option is for women to pump and store breast milk while at work. Depending upon you employer and where you live, this may or may not be feasible. For example, here in British Columbia, employer must not only provide a clean, private area in which to breastfeed, the must also provide the time to do so. Check with your local legislation to find out what, if any laws are in place to assist you with pumping breast milk while at work.
- The third and probably the most common reason that many women choose to pump is to supplement their milk supply. Keeping a bottle or two of breast milk in the fridge can allow you to top up a late night feed. Even better, it can allow dad to bottle feed while mom takes a much needed break.
There are really two types of breast pumps; Manual (hand pumps) and electric (which can be either battery operated or plug-in)
Manual Breast Pumps
Manual Breast pumps are designed to used anywhere and are simply operated by hand. My personal experience with manual pumps has been that while they can be very convenient to use, they are both more difficult and less efficient than their electric counterparts. If you have any type of hand or forearm problems (such as Carpel Tunnel Syndrome) think seriously before deciding to rely on manual pump. The good news is that they are relatively inexpensive to purchase so when you are choosing a breast pump, they can make a great backup in the even that you are not able to use your electric pump. If you decide on a manual pump, the more popular manufactures include, Ameda, Medela, Phillips Avent and Lansinoh.
Electric Breast Pumps
If you have decided to purchase an electric breast pump, you have quite a few options to consider but that can quickly be narrowed down to the top models. In the electric category, Ameda and Medela are again two of the biggest manufacturers.
Electric breast pumps provide more consistent suction; In addition, they are much more efficient. There are two options that I personally recommend. First, when choosing a breast pump, select one that includes a carrying case. Second, make sure you also purchase a few extra storage bottles and lots of freezer bags. Electric breast pumps are available for rental however it has been my experience that with monthly rental costs between $30-$50, you are often better purchasing the pump and then reselling it when you are finished breastfeeding.
My Recommendation when choosing a breast pump
When it comes to choosing an electric breast pump, my first choice would be the Ameda Purely Yours. I have used this model for both of my young children and each time I purchased one I used it for 2 years with no problems. I am in the process of selling my current pump and expect to recover at least 40% of the cost which makes it far cheaper than it would have been to rent. Both Ameda and Medela are highly rated and I have had clients who have been happy with both manufacturers.
