Which Breastpump is Right for You?

When choosing a breastpump, think about what you are or are likely to use it for. Depending on certain circumstances, one breastpump might be better than another.

No woman has ever fallen in love with her breastpump. Breastpumps just don't look like babies, and they can't empty a breast as efficiently. But breastpumps are a fact of life for many busy mums. For mothers whose babies are unwell or unable to breastfeed, breastpumps make it possible for them to maintain their milk supply and work toward the day when they will be able to breastfeed their baby directly.

Don't buy a breastpump during pregnancy. Wait until after your baby is born, when you'll have a better sense of your pumping needs. The various breastpumps on the market fit a few basic categories (see table below). The more you are depending on your breastpump and the higher value there is on your time, the more important it is to use a high-quality pump. When you're considering whether to buy or rent and how much to spend, take these factors into account:

• What is your reason for pumping? Are you trying to establish and maintain a milk supply for a baby who can't yet nurse? If so, you need a better quality breastpump than if you are pumping to keep milk in the freezer for an emergency.
• How old is your baby? Will you be pumping for many, many months? Do you plan to have another baby and might you use the breastpump again? This may influence whether you rent or buy.
• Do you need the convenience and speed of double pumping?
• Compare the cost of the pump to the cost of the alternative: formula feeding. Even the more expensive breastpumps may come out looking economical by this standard.
• Battery-operated breastpumps go through batteries quickly. Breastpumps that come with an adapter for electrical outlets or a car battery can give you the flexibility you need without having to depend on batteries for power every time. Consider where you will be pumping the most, since not every place has an outlet.
• Do you need a breastpump that is lightweight and portable? Will you be carrying your breastpump back and forth to work every day, or will it stay in one place?
• Expect to take at least as much time to pump as the average time it takes to breastfeed your baby (if your baby feeds quickly, you may find about 30 minutes would be right). A double-pumping system cuts that time in half and may yield more milk and higher prolactin levels in your blood.

Comparing Breastpumps

We no longer sell breastpumps. However, we recommend Medela's range of pump as being thoroughly-researched, practical and durable. See Medela's own guide to which pump to choose.