When you're away from your kid, whether at work or just enjoying yourself, a breast pump will help you avoid engorgement and keep your milk supply up.
It may be challenging to select the appropriate breast pump since there are so many on the market. Fortunately, this article will teach you all you need to know about choosing the right breast pump. Let's get started!
What types of breast pumps exist?
The many kinds of breast pumps available on the market are shown below.
Hospital-grade breast pumps
These heavy-duty pumps have larger motors and produce more "sucks" each minute. They extract milk fast and are pretty quiet, but they're large and inconvenient to transport. Renting hospital-grade pumps is advisable since they cost up to $999 to buy.
Electric breast pumps
Suction and speed are both adjustable, making them efficient and portable. While all versions need the power to operate, certain types come with rechargeable batteries, allowing you to pump without connecting to an outlet. Electric pumps sometimes come with a carrying bag and a refrigerator for transporting milk, making them a popular option among working mothers.
Wearable electric breast pumps
Wearable breast pumps, which have grown in popularity in recent years, are exactly what they sound like: a hands-free, fully portable breast pump that you can wear right in your bra. Wearable pumps allow you to pump discreetly and in various postures, regardless of where you are.
Manual breast pumps
To generate suction and pump your milk, these breast pumps utilize the pushing action of your hand. Some are simple to use with only one hand, while others need two. These pumps are silent and tiny (about the size of a bottle) since they don't have a motor, making them ideal for travel or infrequent pumping.
What are the essential parts of a breast pump?
A few essential components are found in all breast pumps, as shown below.
Breast shields (flanges)
The portion of the breast pump that sits immediately over the nipple and creates a vacuum seal over the areola, pulling your nipple into the tunnel for milk extraction, is called a flange or breast shield. The flange secures over the breast for suction and releases while you're pumping.
Breast pump valves
Breast pump valves are composed of a flexible silicone substance. This is partially because each time your breast pump sucks in, the valves stretch and release, producing the suction you experience while nursing your baby.
Backflow protectors
Backflow guards keep backflow out of the breast pump's motor. In a nutshell, they serve as a physical barrier between your milk and the pump motor, as well as a hygienic barrier for your milk supply.
Backflow protectors should be washed in hot, soapy water and then allowed to air dry. Make sure the protectors are fully dry before using them again.
Tubing
The pump motor creates a vacuum in the air that passes through the tubes and is displaced. When you first see a breast pump, you may think the milk goes via the tubes, but this isn't the case.
Connector
This breast pump section links the tubing, breast shield, valve, and other components together. Membranes and milk storage containers are close to one another. Depending on the pump you choose, the connector may be attached to the breast shield and independent in other instances.
When a breast pump can be used?
Pumping may begin after breastfeeding is established, which is typically four weeks after the baby is delivered. You don't have to wait if your infant has difficulty nursing or if you want to pump solely.
When your breasts are still feeling full, it's a good idea to start pumping after one feeding each day. You may also start introducing your baby to a bottle around this time.
Your particular circumstances will determine how long you breastfeed and pump. According to expert guidelines, breastfeed solely for the first six months, then continue nursing while also providing solids for the remainder of the first year. However, you must do what is best for you and your family.
Conclusion
When it comes to feeding your baby, a breast pump may make your life a lot simpler. Before you start looking for the ideal pump for you, you'll need to think about a few things, including pricing, efficiency, quality, and pump size.