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One of the most important
elements in breast pumping is the pump itself. It must be effective and
comfortable and keep pace with your milk supply. It’s also important
that the pump mimics your baby’s suckling at the breast. Pumps vary
in many ways including the number of suctions and releases per minute
(30-60 per minute mimics baby’s suckling), power sources (electric
or batteries), and whether the pump permits you to single and double pump
without reconfiguring the system. A manual pump allows you to control
suction and cycling yourself but takes a little practice to develop the
right rhythm to trigger milk let-down. There are many types of pumps,
and an inferior pump can make milk expression painful and problematic.
To select the right pump, ask yourself these questions:
| • | Are you returning to work? | | • | Will you be away from your baby for long periods? | | • | Is time a factor? | | • | Do you have access to an electric outlet? | | • | Do you have access to a refrigeration source? | | • | Will a battery-operated pump be more convenient? | | • | How long do you plan to breastfeed? | | • | Is cost a concern? |
Which
Ameda Breast Pump Is Right for Your Situation?
| | |
Manual
Pump
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Hospital
Grade
Rental Pumps | | Situation |
|
|
| | Twins | | |
| | Premature or Sick Baby | | |
| | Work Full-Time | | |
| | Work Part-Time | | |
| | Night Out | | |
| | Mom at Home | | |
| | Hospitalized Mom | | |
| | Traveling Mom | | |
| | No Electricity | | |
| | Sore Nipples | | |
| | Engorgement | | |
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Once you begin pumping, continue feeding on cue rather than on a schedule during the first six weeks. Top of Page | 
