Breastfeeding is one of nature’s best gifts to mankind – it is a safe, healthy way to nurture our offspring, doesn’t cost much in the long run, and helps cement ties between mother and child. But not every mama can directly latch their babies, hence the need for breast pumps that will help us give littles ones their much needed liquid gold.
You may be asking, which brand of breast pump is the best? Well, there are many things to consider when searching for your breastfeeding gadget. The frequency of your pumping sessions, whether you’ll need electricity or not, or are you on the move or just at home will all have a bearing in answering that question. Check out these considerations before you decide which best breast pump to get.
Dual or single breast pump?
If you’re latching on one side and would like to pump on the other, perhaps you’ll only be needing a single breast pump. If you’re on the lookout for a simple option, you may opt for Mamajoo Electrical USB Single Breast Pump for those easy pumping during feeding.
If you think you need to save time by pumping both breasts, even while doing some chores around the house, pick a hands-free dual pump like the Imani i2 Plus Wearable breast pump. Ditch the tubes and pumping wires and discretely pump milk anytime, anywhere. Just wear it under your bra and let it do all the pumping job.
Manual or electric breast pump?
Other mamas may opt for a manual pump because it’s easier to clean, has less accessories to maintain, and very light to bring. Some manual pumps also ensure you won’t have oversupply because you practically control the pumping rhythm. Current available options are Combi Manual breast pump, Tommee Tippee Manual pump, and a silicone milk catcher like the Vcool breast pump.
If you want to go electric, plenty of options are available like Wisemom Pocket Rechargeable pump, which allows use of up to 12 times or 6 hours pumping time in a day. Most electric pumps also have a built in closed system that prevents backflow hence avoiding possible machine contamination.
Some electric pumps are also battery powered, in case there’s no way to charge it to a power supply, like Chicco Naturally Me electric breast pump.
Do you need to pump milk on the go?
Working moms must take advantage of the lactation break, a law that allows nursing mothers to express milk at the workplace. These break intervals, a minimum 40 minutes of compensable breastfeeding break in every 8-hour working period, are deemed paid hours.
If you’re going back to work or have to be outside most of the day, you can continue stabilizing your milk supply by religiously pumping milk on schedule. It is recommended to pump every 2-3 hours, so you’ll be needing a machine that will do the work for you even if you’re busy attending a meeting or typing at your desk. Spectra 9s Double Electric Breast Pump does just that. With its rechargeable function, sleek design (it fits even in your handbag), and not too many wires, you can even pump milk at the car’s passenger side while stuck in traffic. This lightweight breast pump also has a massage and pump function for better milk yield. No wonder this is a mama favorite.
Are you exclusively pumping?
If you cannot directly latch your baby, either due to the infant’s health (preemie) or your physical availability, you have to consider getting a long-lasting breast pump that can take plenty of pumping cycles. Medela breast pumps and Spectra brand are the frontrunners in this criteria, based on conversations in mom forums in the Philippines.
If mobility is not part of the equation and you can pump milk round the clock in a place where there’s power, consider getting Spectra Dual S Hospital Grade Double Electric Breast Pump, which has two powerful motors that allow different suction strength for each breast and has a massage and expression mode for an easier milk let down. It’s also quiet and has a 3-level night light so you can pump beside your sleeping baby. Say no to repeatedly arranging the setting because this one also has a memory function.
For mamas on a budget
If you’re looking for something that won’t break the bank, you can choose breast pumps that have simpler specifications. If you just need to get that precious breastmilk comfortably, you have many to choose from - BabyBee Philippines’ Automatic breast pump costs less than P2000 while another mom favorite, the Horigen Exquiture Mini Electric Breast Pump is just around P3000, a price that’s nearly half of some of its higher-end counterparts.
Eyeing something way cheaper? The Chummy Baby Breast Pump Set retails for only P500 while the Fisher Price Manual Silicone Breast Pump is priced at P609.
For those seeking comfort
Some breast pumps do wonders when it comes to milk production, but may feel painful to use on a daily basis. When deciding which breast pump to buy, you should also consider if the flange fits you right. Some breast pumps like Spectra have flange sizes to choose from, and apart from comfort, proper flange size helps you achieve maximum milk yield.
You may also choose breast pumps with soft silicone cushion that adapts to the shape of the breast, like Nuk Luna Comfortable breast pump.
The Haakaa, meanwhile, remains a favorite because of its soft silicone material, effectiveness in catching letdown, and ease of use (no valves to clean!). It is also BPA-free, and 100 percent environment friendly. Its strong suction base prevents milk spills (yikes!) by stopping your baby from knocking it over.
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