Breast Pumps
What is a Breast Pump?
A breast pump is a device used to express milk from a breastfeeding mother’s breasts. It is used to stimulate lactation and to extract milk from the breasts for storage and later use. A breast pump can also be used to relieve engorgement, draw out flat or inverted nipples, or maintain a mother’s milk supply if she is away from her baby for extended periods of time. The use of breast pumps has become more common in recent years, as it offers convenience, comfort, and flexibility for mothers who wish to continue breastfeeding their baby.
Types of Breast Pumps
- Manual Breast Pumps – Portable and operated by hand, ideal for occasional pumping. Lightweight, easy to carry, requires no power supply, and is often less expensive.
- Electric Breast Pumps – Powered by AC adapter or battery, offering stronger and faster suction. Great for frequent pumping and efficiency.
- Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps – Most powerful, mimics a baby’s natural suckling rhythm, and suitable for frequent pumping and long-term use.
What is Suction Strength?
The suction level of a breast pump is measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury), the standard unit of vacuum pressure. When choosing a breast pump, consider models with adjustable suction levels to find the most comfortable setting. Most breast pumps have maximum suction levels of 200-350 mmHg, with hospital-grade pumps offering higher pressure for more rigorous use.
Closed-System Pump vs Open-System Pump
- Closed-System Pumps – Designed with a barrier between the pump and milk collection container, preventing milk from entering the pump’s internal components. More hygienic and easier to clean.
- Open-System Pumps – Do not have this barrier, meaning milk can come into contact with internal pump parts. These require more cleaning and sterilization to prevent contamination.
How Do Breast Pumps Work?
Breast pumps mimic a baby’s natural suckling pattern, either manually (by squeezing a handle) or electronically. Once the milk is released, it is collected in a container. Pumps come with flanges (breast shields) that create a secure seal to enable effective and efficient pumping. Flanges come in various sizes to ensure a comfortable fit. If discomfort occurs, changing flange sizes may be necessary.
Important Note
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and most breast pump manufacturers recommend cleaning pump parts thoroughly after every use. Improper cleaning and sterilization of pump parts can lead to bacterial contamination and infections.
Quality Breast Pump Brands at Medicinal Supplies
- Ameda (Mya Joy PLUS, Purely Yours, Portable One-Hand, Elite)
- Ardo Medical (Calypso Essentials Plus, Alyssa)
- BabyBuddha (Nature’s Bond)
- Devon Medical (Drive Pure Expressions)
- Drive Medical
- Elvie (Stride, Stride Plus, Curve, Chiaro)
- Evenflo (Advanced)
- Freemie (Independence II, Equality Manual)
- Hygeia Health (Q Electric)
- Lansinoh (Smartpump 2.0, SignaturePro, Portable)
- Medela (Harmony, Freestyle, Pump In Style, Swing Maxi)
- Motif Medical (Luna)
- Nuk USA (Expressive)
- Roscoe Medical (Viverity TruComfort)
- Rumble Tuff (Breeze)
- Spectra Baby USA (S9 Plus, S2 Plus, SG, SG Synergy Gold, S1 Plus Premier)
- Tomy International (The First Years Quiet Expressions)
- Unimom (Z1, Z2)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often should I use a breast pump?
A: It depends on your needs. Many mothers pump every 2-3 hours to maintain supply, while others pump less frequently depending on feeding schedules.
Q: Which breast pumps are the best?
A: The best breast pump varies based on personal needs. Electric pumps offer speed, manual pumps are portable, and hospital-grade pumps provide the strongest suction.
Q: Do breast pumps expire?
A: While breast pumps do not have an official expiration date, their motors and parts can wear out over time. It’s recommended to replace parts as needed.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my breast pump?
A: Always clean and sterilize pump parts after each use to prevent contamination. Follow manufacturer guidelines for safe maintenance.
Q: Are breast pumps covered by insurance?
A: While some insurance providers may cover breast pumps, Medicinal Supplies does not process insurance claims. Customers should check with their provider and submit necessary documents for reimbursement on their own.
Q: Can I reuse a breast pump for multiple babies?
A: Yes, but only if it’s a closed-system pump. Open-system pumps may harbor bacteria and should not be shared.
What Makes Online Shopping from Medicinal Supplies So Good?
At Medicinal Supplies, we strive to make your breast pump shopping experience as easy and convenient as possible. We provide detailed product information, offer a wide variety of trusted brands, and maintain some of the cheapest and most discounted prices. Best of all, you don’t need to leave your home—most orders ship the same day and arrive in just a few business days.
Order Your Breast Pump Today!
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