How do I choose a breastpump?
The FDA does not yet have standards for breastpump effectiveness or safety, so there are many less than ideal pumps on the market. If you only need a pump for occasional use, a hand pump may be enough. If you are returning to employment or school and will be seperated from your baby, either a rental pump or one of the personal double electric pumps like Hollister’s Purely Yours or Medela’s Pump in Style should meet your needs. If you have a baby with breastfeeding difficulties, you would be better off renting a hospital grade pump to help protect your milk supply. A Lactation Consultant will be able to help you decide which pump is best for your own personal situation.
If you need to pump more than once a day, you should use a double electric pump. If you are only pumping once a day, you may be able to use a single electric pump or hand pump. These are general guidelines; there is no “right” pump for everyone, and some pumps may give you a better let-down than others. Avoid “bicycle horn” hand pumps. Some hand pumps are more efficient than others. Reliable brands of pumps include Medela, Ameda, and Avent.
