How to choose and use a breast pump correctly. Survey of the best firms. Which breast pump is better - manual or electric? When is a breast pump needed?

01.06.2019

A couple of decades ago, pediatricians insisted that young mothers must pump after each feeding. Currently, WHO has issued recommendations for successful breastfeeding, where it outlined its position on pumping: properly organized breastfeeding does not require additional pumping of milk. Since milk is produced only as much as the baby eats, pumping can lead to excess milk production and further lactostasis. And yet, in some cases, such as the illness of a nursing woman or weaning from a child, pumping is indispensable. Since many women believe that pumping with their hands is a painful and uncomfortable procedure, breast pump manufacturers have come to their aid.

When is a breast pump really needed?
The mother is separated from the child. If the baby or mother is admitted to a hospital where it is impossible to cohabitation if a woman needs to go to work or continue her studies, breastfeeding can be maintained with the help of a breast pump. It is necessary to express every 3 hours and immediately transfer milk to the child, and if this is not possible, milk supplies can be stored in the refrigerator (up to 12 hours) or in freezer(up to six months). If the mother knows in advance that she will be absent from the child, then breast milk can be stored by expressing after feedings and freezing the milk.
The baby was born premature, he is weak and cannot suckle effectively at the breast. A premature baby is placed in a special incubator. Because the breast milk especially important for such a baby, mom premature baby it is necessary to express and transfer milk.
The child has defects in the structure of the facial skeleton. In this case, he has difficulty sucking and swallowing milk. When the baby has had a facial skeleton correction, he can begin to suckle at the breast, and until that moment he is fed through a tube or from a spoon with expressed breast milk.
A woman needs to take medications incompatible with breastfeeding. In this case, it is necessary to temporarily wean the child from the breast and, after completion of treatment, continue breastfeeding. A breast pump will help maintain lactation, for this you need to express your breasts 4-6 times a day. At the same time, the child is fed with a mixture from a spoon or cup, since feeding from a bottle with a nipple can subsequently lead to refusal of the breast.
A woman develops lactostasis or mastitis. This usually happens due to improper attachment the child to the breast, in which there is a blockage of the duct of the mammary gland and a seal is formed. When breast tissue becomes infected, mastitis develops, which requires treatment with antibiotics or surgical intervention. To avoid stagnation of milk, it is necessary to express the breast with a breast pump until the seal disappears completely. If the breast has been operated on, then the baby is fed with healthy breasts, maintaining lactation in the diseased breast with the help of a breast pump.

Types of breast pumps

Breast pumps today are represented on the market by electric and mechanical models.
Electric breast pump It can be powered by a mains or battery, milk is expressed into a bottle, some models allow you to express both breasts at once, which saves time. This breast pump is suitable for frequent and regular pumping. The disadvantage of electric breast pumps is their high cost and noise characteristics - an electric breast pump cannot be used next to a sleeping baby.
Mechanical breast pumps There are three types: piston, pump and breast pump with a pear.
Piston breast pump allows you to express milk into a bottle, is silent and efficient in operation. Thanks to the silicone nozzle, the breast is massaged, while imitating natural process suckling of the breast by the child and the excretory reflex is stimulated. The piston breast pump can be easily disassembled into parts, the parts are convenient to wash and sterilize. This breast pump is suitable for frequent pumping, however, with prolonged use, a woman's hands may get tired. Another disadvantage of piston breast pumps is the fragility of the parts.
pump action breast pump consists of a pear and a plastic horn, milk is expressed by creating a vacuum when squeezing the pear. A pump-action breast pump is much cheaper than other types of breast pumps, but can only be used for pumping a small amount milk. The disadvantages of a pump breast pump include the lack of a milk container, low efficiency, the inability to sterilize parts, and the lack of imitation of baby suckling, which can lead to cracked nipples.
Pear breast pump It works on the same principle as the pump. However, unlike him, the breast pump with a pear is equipped with a bottle into which milk is expressed. In addition, the pear breast pump has a valve that allows you to adjust the pressure release. This type of breast pump is only useful for rare cases of pumping. Such a breast pump is cheap, and its disadvantages include low efficiency and high probability the appearance of cracks on the nipples, since the breast pump with a pear does not imitate the natural process of breast sucking by a child.

Popular models of breast pumps

Recognized manufacturer's model Philips- piston breast pump Avent, the efficiency of which is not inferior to the efficiency of electric breast pumps. Thanks to the silicone diaphragm and the petal massager, the breast is gently massaged, which improves milk flow. A woman can easily control the intensity of the pumping process by pressing the handle of the breast pump with different strengths. Milk can be expressed into a bottle or into special sterile milk storage containers. The advantage of a breast pump Philips Avent is easy to use, all parts can be sterilized. The kit includes spare silicone parts, which increases the life of the breast pump. Electronic breast pump Philips Avent combines the advantages of a manual breast pump Philips Avent and electronic memory that remembers the rhythm hand pumping. By pressing the button on the handle, the breast pump is switched from manual pumping mode to electronically controlled pumping mode and vice versa.

The most common manufacturer's model Medela is a piston breast pump Medela Harmony, which is based on the technology of two-phase pumping: a fast rhythm stimulates milk production, a slow rhythm allows you to express milk gently. Medela Harmony It comes with an additional massaging silicone funnel, which contributes to a more efficient release of milk.

Remarkable electric breast pump Lactaline ( manufacturer Ameda), allowing you to express milk from two mammary glands at once. The breastpump works both from a network, and from batteries that expands possibilities of its use.
Popular model manufacturer Nuk is an electric breast pump E-MOTION with a two-phase pumping system. The funnel of the breast pump is suitable for any breast size, the pumping intensity can be easily changed using the flow rate regulator. E-MOTION Operates both on mains and batteries.

Known Manufacturer Model Chicco is a piston breast pump Chicco One Ha nd, which has an angled funnel for a more comfortable pumping position. The intensity of pumping is regulated by a special valve.

Company "The world of childhood" releases a pump-action breast pump with a pear. This model has a low cost, the kit may include a bottle to collect milk.

Helpful Hints

To choose the right model, decide for what purposes and how often you will use it, how much time you plan to spend pumping milk.
Read the instructions for your breast pump before using it.
Wash and sterilize the breast pump parts before first use.
Wash your hands with soap and water before pumping.
Put on your chest warm compress, do a breast massage - this contributes to the production of oxytocin, due to which milk moves more efficiently through the ducts and is expressed faster.
Place the funnel of the breast pump on the breast so that the nipple is in the center of the breast.
Adjust the pressure generated by the breast pump so that there is no pain.
Change the breast you are pumping several times, this will allow you to collect more milk.
Wash and air dry all parts of the breast pump after use.

Video. electric breast pump

Breastfeeding is a responsible process, but sometimes difficulties arise in it. In such cases, a breast pump will help out. Reviews about these devices are quite multidirectional, so we will try to find out what is special about them.

Features of choice

Pumping is a process that is worth learning so that milk does not stagnate in the breast, and the baby is fed at the same time. A breast pump can become a woman's main assistant to maintain lactation. To choose correct model, you need to take into account its capabilities, technical characteristics and reviews of mothers who have already used it. Today, many pro-breastfeeding counselors are talking about feeding your baby on demand and not pumping.

But many mothers face feeding problems due to incorrect or inability to properly give it to a child. As a result, lactostasis is possible, and even worse - mastitis. To avoid this, it is still worth having a breast pump at home just in case. Reviews say that with skillful handling, you can for a long time feed the baby with expressed breast milk.

When and why?

It is necessary to express in several cases:

In the period after childbirth, when the transformation of colostrum into milk occurs. In the first time after childbirth, milk accumulates more than the baby needs, so it is necessary to express it.
If you want to keep lactation for a long time. By expressing milk regularly, you can increase the duration of feeding your baby and feed him even where it is not possible to breastfeed.
With lactostasis. If there is a blockage of the mammary gland, this will lead to stagnation of milk. This, in turn, will cause the development of mastitis. In such cases, you should definitely buy a breast pump, reviews of which among mothers are mostly good.

Types and features of work

Modern manufacturers offer wide choose breast pumps. They have the same principle of operation: a special nozzle is placed on the nipple along with the areola. The mechanical or electrical part contributes to the creation of a vacuum, as a result of which breast milk is released. Different manufacturer's models technical specifications, and many mothers are faced with the problem of how to buy a breast pump, which one is better. Reviews of mechanical or electronic options differ primarily in the price category: the former are cheaper, the latter are more expensive.

Mechanical models: choosing the best

A manual breast pump (or mechanical) is a simple device that allows you to conveniently express milk. IN maternity hospitals such models are not used, but it is quite possible to buy it at home. Mechanical devices are presented in several variations:

Piston breast pump is easy to use, quiet operation. The complete set assumes the presence of a bottle for pumping, and the silicone nozzle imitates the natural process of feeding. Such feedback received good thanks to the mechanism for adjusting the force of decantation, which makes it possible for mothers to set the optimal intensity of exposure. Devices differ in simplicity of sterilization, and its elements are reliable. The most popular models among buyers include devices of the brands Avent, Chicco, Medela.
The syringe device consists of two cylinders located one inside the other. The inner cylinder is required to be placed on the nipple, and the outer cylinder must be moved back and forth. Such movements create a vacuum due to which milk comes out of the breast. Almost all modern breast pumps of this type are equipped with a pressure regulator - this allows you to select a specific pumping mode. by the most well-known manufacturers such appliances are Chicco and Nuk.
The pump-action mechanical breast pump received good reviews due to its convenience and ease of use. By design, it is a nozzle on the chest and a pumping element, there is a bottle in the package. they prefer devices of such brands as Kurnosiki, Canpol, Tommee tippee, World of Childhood, AventIsis.
Pear breast pumps are just as easy to use. The design consists of a chest attachment in the form of a plastic horn and a rubber pear. A special valve regulates the release of pressure. Among such models, products of the Chicco and Canpol brands attract attention.

Conclusions about mechanical models

Any mother knows that a breast pump will help to drain the breast. Which is better? Reviews say that manual models are a great choice if you want to save money. They are easy to care for, the pumping process itself is simple, and you can use such devices anywhere without being tied to the mains. On the other hand, such breast pumps are no different high efficiency pumping, can lead to the formation of cracks, besides, you need to adapt to them.

Breast pump: which is better?

Reviews of mechanical or electronic devices received different and in large quantities. The electric ones are perfect for everyday use. Modern models are produced both on batteries and accumulators, and from the network.

And pumping happens automatically: the electric motor heats up the vacuum. The reviews note that despite the high performance and ease of use, they are very noisy during operation. Battery-powered models are more versatile, since you can express even on a walk. On the other hand, they are not very efficient.

Equipment

The electric breast pump gets a lot of feedback. When choosing such a model, pay attention to its configuration. Each device is complemented by a special bottle, and most models are equipped with a pumping intensity regulator, a control unit with a display that shows the features of the pumping process. In addition, some models are able to express from both breasts at the same time, which is very convenient and efficient. Popular devices include Nuk, Medela, Tommee Tippee.

Overview of popular models: manual

A modern mom may face certain problems when choosing a breast pump. Which is better? Reviews "Avent" or "Medela" are distinguished in the first place, since it is these manufacturers who offer a large range of devices. Let's start with an overview of Avent brand products:

Philips Avent. This model is presented in three series, each of which has its own characteristics. So, Comfort is complemented by trial sets of night and day inserts for a bra. The device is lightweight and compact.
Natural additionally has a travel container for nipples, equipped with a mechanism that remembers the pumping mode.
ISIS is complemented by cup adapters and also has containers in which milk can be stored. The cost of all models varies from 3200 rubles. up to 3800 rub.

The Avent manual breast pump received good reviews due to the equipment, however, mothers note that it takes time to get used to it.

Now consider the Medela Harmony manual breast pump. He is the only one in the world that works on a two-phase pumping system and manually. The uniqueness of this device is that it imitates the natural process of sucking a baby, so pumping is fast and comfortable.

About the benefits mother's milk a lot has been said, we will not repeat ourselves, we will only talk about how to get a precious drink for the crumbs, if for some reason this cannot be done. IN this issue a breast pump will help, which is much easier to express than manually. From the video you will learn why you may need to express milk.

Manufacturers produce completely various models breast pumps - manual, electric conventional, and two-phase with - digital displays. So it is difficult to buy a good breast pump now due to the availability of an assortment. Some are equipped with a set of bottles, silicone pads, milk storage bags and other necessary little things.

Today we will look at each electric breast pump, reviews, which is better, and compile the top 7 best breast pumps that moms have already used and give them positive ratings. But first, let's answer the popular questions of nursing mothers and pregnant women who want to buy a breast pump.

When might you need an electronic breast pump?

The most incredible thing is modern moms already, being pregnant, they want to know everything about this device, but is it worth it to hurry with the purchase? Of course not, there must be prerequisites for a weighty decision... Here are the most important reasons for buying a device:

If the mother needs to leave for a period of several hours to several days. In this case, the expressed milk stored in the refrigerator is useful for feeding the baby;
If breast fullness or lactostasis occurs, then a quality breast pump - the right decision. It is worth noting that the purchase will not solve all the problems of a serious condition, it is important to do it on time proper massage, accept cold and hot shower and protect your chest from hypothermia;
If the baby is not latching on properly, from this milk does not flow normally, or from this the child swallows a lot of air, but not enough milk, the child does not eat up. Then milk expressed by a breast pump and poured into a bottle will definitely come in handy. And at the same time, the apparatus;
If the mother takes drugs that are contraindicated for the baby. Feeding in this case is postponed for the duration of the treatment of the mother. But the chest is still full and it becomes difficult to express it.

Which breast pump is better - manual or electric?

The only difference between them is the mechanism of operation. The electric one works by itself from batteries or from the mains, and the manual one with the help of mom's efforts. The second is in demand, because it is relatively inexpensive, but often does not meet the expectations of the mother, after use she gets even more tired and has little strength to do anything.

Of course, buying a manual or electric breast pump is everyone's choice, but we tend to the best option. Therefore, our topic today is electric models of breast pumps that bring comfort to the life of a mother and her baby.

Choosing an electric breast pump Rating of the best models of 2017. Reviews, specifications and prices.

7 Ramili - two-phase electric breast pump

Ramili - two-phase electric breast pump

The Ramili SE350 breast pump is convenience, comfort and reliability. It well decongests stagnation if the child cannot do this, easily relieves milk overflow in the breast and gives relief to the mother. In addition, the design is reliably protected from breakage and is equipped with a system to prevent milk from entering the mechanism.

Using this two-phase device (imitation of baby sucking), you will not feel the difference between how your baby sucks and how the machine expresses milk. Instead, you will experience the comfort and pleasure of the process and the recently reviewed breast pumps (which one is better to take) will no longer be relevant. And most importantly, you can afford such a pleasure, because it costs an order of magnitude less than our next participants.

This is a good breast pump made in the UK, mothers' reviews of this device are positive, they say that it works quite quietly, and the rud expresses delicately, it seems that the baby is sucking milk.

Number of modes: 9
Intensity adjustment: yes
Complete set: massage funnel (silicone), container-bottle for milk
Features: digital display with indication, two-phase pumping.

6

6th place - Medela Mini Electric - the most compact breast pump

If you are driving active image life, appreciate both comfort and your time, and decide which breast pump is better, get the world's only smallest and most convenient breast pump.

It is very easy to figure out how it works, but you will immediately appreciate the Swiss quality of this company. The device can adapt to your needs, adjusting the intensity, you will accurately select the desired mode for you.

The reviews write that the device sucks well only foremilk, and in order for the back to also be filtered, you need to help with your hand, easily massaging your chest. Also, the pump is quite noisy. These two shortcomings did not allow him to climb higher in the rankings, but in general, reviews about him are good. They say that they like the choice of intensity, so moms use it for breasts with nipple cracks, as well as lactostasis.

Compactness is also a huge advantage, because you can take it on a trip. If you used a manual one, try this device, because it is not so expensive due to the fact that it is “mini”, and the company is certainly time-tested.

Number of modes: 1
Intensity adjustment: there is a smooth adjustment
Safety: BPA Free
Complete set: silicone funnel, plastic bottle 150 ml, stand
Features: works both from a network, and from alkaline batteries.

5

If you are already tired of thinking about which bottle or nipple to choose for your baby, you need to express milk, but you are in doubt about which breast pump is better to buy, stop guessing. Get this complete pumping kit and you won't have to worry or hesitate anymore. The British manufacturer has found the right solution and offers all moms excellent quality for an average price.

The device works both from a direct network and from batteries. Milk can be expressed into a container or directly into a bottle. Moms note that it is easy to understand the device, wash all the details too, and the container for the kit is also suitable for sterilizing a bottle with a nipple in the microwave. In general, the breast pump does its job well and deserves attention.

Number of modes: 4
Intensity adjustment yes
Safety: BPA Free
Contents: massage funnel, bottle (150 ml), container for storing the entire set, breast pads, slow flow nipple.

4

4th place - Medela Swing - the best two-phase breast pump

The Swiss breast pump is very light and easy to use. It is based on new technologies of two-phase pumping. This means that pumping will be as close as possible to the natural sucking of the breast by the baby. At first the vacuum will be weak so that the chest can adapt and get used to it, and then stronger. At the same time, the mother will not feel pain, because this device was specially designed for sensitive breasts and nipples prone to cracks.

The breast pump has elegant design and enjoy its compactness. As the manufacturer assures, it works almost silently (mains or batteries) and more powerful than Mini Electric. But we researched reviews about this breast pump, which one is better, and here's what moms say: “This breast pump met all expectations - light, comfortable and beautiful, but a little noisy. The greater the speed and intensity, the louder it works. But it doesn’t interfere at all if you don’t decant at night.”

Number of modes: smooth two-phase mode
Intensity adjustment: yes
Safety: BPA Free
Equipment: massage funnel, stand, smart nipple Calma mimics the resemblance to mother's breasts. Buy Medela Swing at the best price 7 999 rub >>

There is also another model on sale, similar in characteristics but faster for pumping. Medela swing maxi with Calma pacifier. It is designed for simultaneous pumping of two mammary glands and is very suitable for mothers with a premature baby, because simultaneous pumping increases lactation by about 20% and of course saves you time.

3 Philips Avent SCF332 /01 - the most popular

Here you may have a question, which breast pump is better - Avent or Medela, because our rating is dominated by the products of a Swiss company ... The answer to it is this: if you need quality that has been proven over the years, choose any of them, and Avent and Medela will show themselves on the good side.

Philips Avent electric model - best breast pump and deservedly sits on the 3rd place in the rating, because he received positive reviews parents all over the world, and in our country he was awarded the "Parents' Choice" award in 2015.

In 2017, mothers are also kind to their baby, their health and appreciate comfort, so their choice falls on Avent. The set has everything for complete comfort: pumping speed switching modes, comfortable and soft massage petals, bottle and nipple made of safe materials.

The advantage of this electric device is that it is easy to operate - there is only one button, convenient to use - you can pump sitting or standing without bending your back in different directions to achieve the best result.

In the era of breastfeeding propaganda, almost every mother understands how valuable her milk is for a child. It contains essential vitamins nutrients, as well as antibodies that can protect the baby from viruses and bacteria. However, not all women manage to be with their baby around the clock to breastfeed him whenever he wants. In this case, a breast pump will come in handy.

A breast pump is a special device that is used to express milk in reserve. What models are there, how to use them correctly, which breast pump is better to buy?

Even if you are determined to breastfeed your baby, there may be circumstances in which this will not be possible. Then the most best solution for you and the baby will be the option of expressing milk. In what cases is it reasonable?

Due to complex financial difficulties, you may need to go to work while the baby is still tiny. There may also be a need to leave home - for example, to the clinic or on other matters.
The little man has no way of getting milk from your breasts. This happens if a woman has a so-called tight chest. It needs to be developed, and the milk will flow as it should.
Too much milk in female breast can cause mastitis disease state, in which the chest is poured, reddens and hurts. This condition is often accompanied by fever and fever.
It happens that the mother urgently needs treatment with drugs that are contraindicated during lactation. You can use the services of a breast pump so as not to disrupt milk production during this period. Of course, it is impossible to feed them to a baby, but milk will not disappear in the breast, and it will be possible to return to breastfeeding after completion of treatment.

In all these situations, a breast pump is a real salvation. With the help of a miracle device, you can leave the baby with milk in your absence, develop tight chest to eliminate the problem of lack of milk, as well as express excess to avoid stagnation. Milk expressed during its excessive production can be frozen and used during periods of lactation crises.

If you have to refuse Manyun in breast milk because of the medications you are taking, do not rush to finally turn off the breastfeeding. The kid remembers how good he was when he sucked the tit, and will gladly resume this pleasant process.

Models of breast pumps

There are two types of devices for artificially extracting milk from the breast: mechanical and electrical.

Mechanical (manual) models. We will not talk about the very ancient manual breast pumps, which consisted of a funnel and a rubber pear. Such devices were inconvenient and were used only for expressing milk, which then could not be used to feed the baby. Modern manual devices are quite convenient and effectively suck out milk. Usually they consist of a bottle, on which the body of the breast pump with a piston mini-pump is put on. A special handle is attached to the piston and actuated by your hand. The funnel into which the breast is inserted is equipped with a silicone overlay, which ensures a high-quality fit to the skin. Due to the suction of air from the breast, milk is drawn out of the milk ducts and enters the bottle. After pumping, the bottle can be capped with a nipple to feed your baby right away, or simply capped to freeze or refrigerate. The advantage of manual piston breast pump is that you control the pumping rhythm yourself, that is, it is more familiar and gentle on the breast.
Electrical apparatus. The principle of operation is similar to manual: creating a vacuum to stimulate milk production. Only as a pump it is not your hand that drives the piston, but a special separate engine powered by a network or battery. Some models of electric breast pumps have the ability to adjust the speed and strength of suction, which helps to bring the pumping process closer to the rhythm of natural sucking.

Which breast pump is better to choose: manual or electronic? It depends on how often you plan to use it.

If the need for pumping occurs occasionally, a mechanical device will do its job. If you need to constantly collect milk, then the electric model will save you a lot of time and effort.

The issue of price must also be taken into account. Manual models are 4-5 times cheaper than electric ones.

Terms of use

Any device must be used correctly so that the device serves for a long time and effectively copes with its function. In the case of a breast pump, it is important to know how to apply it to the breast so that it does not harm her, as well as how to care for it. constituent parts. How to properly use a breast pump.

Please read the instructions carefully at the beginning of operation. Different models have their own characteristics that determine the rules of use.
Before each pumping, you need to rinse the parts of the device, including bottles, in boiled water Or sterilize and dry.
Assemble the device according to the diagram given in the instruction manual.
Sit comfortably in a chair, put a diaper under one (unused) breast, and attach a breast pump funnel to the other so that the nipple is exactly in the middle of the hole. When using a manual device, start pumping the piston a little until the funnel sticks to the chest. If everything worked out and you feel comfortable, you can increase the swing rhythm. If you have an electric breast pump, set the suction rate to the lowest setting, then add when your breasts get used to it.
Take breaks in pumping, let your breasts rest and fill up. At this time, gently massage the mammary glands.
Pump your breasts only if they are really ready for it. Check readiness with your hands by pressing on the nipple. If you see that a stream of milk has splashed, feel free to apply the breast pump. If only a few drops stand out, wait until the flush is full.
If it hurts, then you connected the device incorrectly. Try to change the position of both the breast pump and the body until you find the most comfortable and painless.
Pump both breasts until comfortable.
After use, immediately blot your breasts with a diaper, twist the bottle, and disassemble the breast pump itself in detail, wash it under running water with soap, and preferably with baby dishwashing liquid, dry it on a towel and put it away until the next use.

These rules may be extended depending on the model of your machine. Both manual and electric breast pumps should be checked at the purchase stage for ease of disassembly and washing.

Advantages of different brands of breast pumps

A breast pump is not something you can buy without thinking. How to choose a breast pump? It is best to go through reviews on the Internet before buying or listen to the advice of experienced friends.

Among the mothers in the network, there are only two most popular manufacturers - Avent (Avent) made in England and Medela (Medela) made in Switzerland.

Both Avent and Medela are subject to both criticism and praise. Let's do small review manual and electric models of these brands.

Manual breast pump Avent. The most popular model is Philips Avent Natural. Its advantage is in the massage silicone overlay on the funnel, in which there are 5 air petals. Thanks to this pad, the process of expressing milk with an Avent breast pump is similar to natural sucking. The device has a handle adapted for easy grip. Another advantage of this model is that during its operation you do not have to sit in an uncomfortable crooked position so that milk enters the container. You can get comfortable and relax. The Avent breast pump comes with a bottle and a wide nipple, as well as a lid and a container for storing nipples. The model is assembled very simply. Since there are few parts, washing does not take much time and labor. The breast pump is compatible with other Avent brand products - nipples and bottles.
Manual breast pump Medela. Cheap and simple model The Medela Base has the advantage of being very easy to learn to use. However, many reviews are not in favor of this model. Mothers complain that pumping with this device is strained and requires a lot of effort. You also need to purchase separate nozzles for different sizes chest. The advantage is that this model can be turned into an electric breast pump by buying a special motor in the company store. Users found the manual device Medela Harmony to be more convenient. This device is more complete: in addition, there are absorbent pads for the breast, as well as the Kalma miracle nipple, with which the baby will perceive the bottle as his mother's breast. It has two pumping phases: fast and slow.
Electric Avent differs from manual only in the presence of an engine. Among the positive moments, mothers name the fact that the electric Avent expresses milk better, to the drop. Of the minuses is that when pumping, you have to help with your hands, massage your chest, despite the petal pad. Otherwise, Avent receives only laudatory words.
Electric Medela, the Swing model is a popular option at about the same cost as the same Avent breast pump. Most buyers unequivocally vote for this electric device. He works quietly, pumping his chest, though not to the drop, but without the help of hands. Small, easy to use, has the ability to control power. Of the minuses, that for big breast you will have to take another funnel in the store, as in set is coming standard.

In general, after studying the characteristics and reviews on the forums, you can choose the option that is best for you. Let breastfeeding be long and successful, and the purchase will please you.

How to get rid of stretch marks after childbirth?

Every woman who is preparing to become a mother, in preparation for caring for a child, acquires all the things necessary for this, including a breast pump. This is a device that allows you to express breast milk very quickly and without discomfort. It is better to buy a breast pump in advance so that calm environment study all the offers on the market and choose the most suitable model.

If future mom does not want to make purchases before the birth of the baby, you can simply make a choice and ask relatives to buy the device while the mother and child are in the hospital. After giving birth, a woman will have much less free time, and it is not recommended to buy the first one that comes across.

What is the best breast pump to buy? Naturally, one that will fully perform its function with easy care and use, and good ratio prices and quality. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the equipment of the device. When trying to decide which breast pump is right for you, you need to consider the following:

Breast pumps are manual and electric;
Models differ significantly in design and assembly method;
The process of work can be regulated by a special knob for smooth switching of speeds or several modes of operation;
The best breast pumps come with a full range of accessories: bottle stands and bottles, nipples, a storage bag or case, breast pads, and containers to store collected milk.

Difference between manual and electric breast pump

Manual breast pump is also called mechanical. This device is more suitable for women who do not express regularly. Mechanical breast pumps are divided into two types:

Manual, equipped with a pear or pump are considered the cheapest, but they are also inefficient;
Piston breast pumps (sometimes also called syringe pumps) are much more expensive, but the pumping process is gentler and more efficient.

Advantages and disadvantages of such devices:

An electric breast pump is necessary for women who, for one reason or another, cannot breastfeed their baby (for example, the baby does not know how to breastfeed on its own, the mother continues to go to work, or she has to temporarily stop feeding to further maintain milk production).

The advantages of an electric breast pump are that it expresses milk twice as fast, and the mother does not need to make any physical effort.
The disadvantages of the device are that they buzz monotonously during use, are quite expensive and difficult to sterilize.

The electronic breast pump is an improved modification of the electric one. The devices have a display and built-in memory that remembers optimal mode pumping. Such devices are very expensive, and often they are bought medical institutions where it is necessary to quickly express large volumes of milk. If a woman wants to use just such a device, it is better to rent it.

First of all, you need to decide how often you will use the device. If rare, a manual one is also suitable, and if often, then it is better to purchase an electric one. Since the cost of electronic devices is quite high, it is better to rent them or buy them from other people. But regardless of the novelty of the device, it must be thoroughly washed and sterilized before use.

Depending on the type of breast pump you choose, certain recommendations must be followed.

For manual breast pumps:

It is better to buy a piston rather than a pump, because the latter does not enough milk and can lead to its stagnation;
Choose a device with a two-phase pumping system;
Choose a breast pump with an anatomical silicone breast pad, since the plastic one does not provide the proper level of comfort during pumping;
It is more convenient if the breast pump comes with a bottle and a nipple that can be used for feeding, and there will be no need to pour milk into another container.

Electric breast pumps are selected taking into account the following requirements:

It is better to buy a device with a silicone nozzle with petals of the appropriate size. In some trim levels there are several nozzles, but most often they need to be purchased additionally;
Choose a breast pump with at least two pumping modes. The first prepares the breasts, making a light massage, and the second expresses milk quickly.
It is better to buy a breast pump with batteries, because mom will not always be able to connect to the network. Please note that batteries are not included with the device.
Pay attention to the material of the breast pump. The most optimal is polypropylene without Bisphenol A.
There are models of breast pumps that can work both in manual and electric mode. To do this, they additionally buy a motor in addition to the manual one.
To save pumping time, you can purchase an optional breast pad that will help you express two breasts at once.
If the mother plans to pump frequently outside the home, it is better to purchase compact devices complete with a bag or case.

Overview of the best breast pumps

The most popular breast pumps at the moment include:

Philips Avent - breast pumps most popular brand. There are both manual and electric, but all models are very different. high quality, so even a used breast pump of this brand will successfully cope with the task.
The Swiss company Medela produces only high-quality electric breast pumps.
The third most popular are Nuk breast pumps, Chicco and Canpol, but they are not as comfortable to use as the first two brands.
Breast pumps Russian manufacturers"Kurnosiki" and "World of Childhood" are only tame, but they are also inexpensive.

Main characteristics of manual breast pumps:

	Piston	pump action	In the form of a syringe
What is included?	small bottle Expression lever Silicone breast pad	Nozzle Pear or pump Some models have feeding bottles	Inner cylinder for breastfeeding outer cylinder Bottle
purpose	For pumping no more than twice a day	For those who do not plan to pump but decide to buy a breast pump for contingencies	Those who rarely pump and do not want to buy an expensive breast pump
Working mechanism	The piston creates a vacuum which draws out the milk.	Pressing the pump or pear creates a vacuum, with the help of which milk is expressed.	The piston creates a vacuum to suck out the milk
Terms of use	The silicone nozzle is applied to the areola of the nipple, the breast is held with one hand, and the lever is rhythmically pressed with the other.	The funnel of the device is applied to the areola, the pad is fixed on the chest and the pump is often pressed.	The funnel must be attached to the areola, fixed on the chest and move back and forth with the piston
pros	Provides fast pumping Inexpensive Easy to disassemble, wash and sterilize Includes feeding bottles Doesn't make noise	cheap Silent	Low noise low price
Minuses	Pumping requires physical effort Parts wear out quickly	Not very comfortable No milk container Can injure the nipple Not very efficient Expressing little milk Hands get tired quickly All components cannot be sterilized with high quality	Pumping takes a long time The breast pump is not effective enough Mom gets tired quickly The device breaks down quickly.

If you decide to purchase a manual breast pump model, be guided not only by your financial capabilities, but also by the expected pumping frequency. In any case, all hand-held appliances are cheap, and even if a breast pump is not useful, family budget won't take significant damage.

Distinctive features of electric breast pumps:

Main types	Electric powered by mains or batteries, there is a power adjustment Electronic (microprocessor control) Most devices can operate both from the mains and on batteries.
purpose	Women for regular pumping.
Accessories	chest attachment Appliance with motor Connector with valve power unit Membrane Milk collection container Stand Some models also include a bag or case for storing the device, several types of nozzles depending on the size, nipples, bottles and containers for further sterilization.
Working mechanism	The motor creates a vacuum around the nipple, which expresses the milk.
Recommendations for use	The nozzle of the device is applied to the areola so that the nipple is in the middle, then the button is pressed, which starts the motor of the device
Advantages	Expression with a breast pump is very fast; The process is not accompanied by nipple injuries; mom saves physical forces and time; Some models allow you to express both breasts at the same time; There is a power adjustment function; All parts are easily sterilized (except for the engine).
Flaws	Noisy Expensive

The choice of an electric breast pump also depends on the cost and the expected frequency of its use.

The most common manual breast pumps

This section includes information about the most common models of manual breast pumps, after reading which, it will be much easier for expectant mothers to make a choice of device. All of them are made of polypropylene, and the nozzles are made of silicone. Approximate time pumping is about half an hour. Other characteristics depend on the model.

Philips AVENT SCF330/20 manual breast pump

This model is considered the most durable and reliable. The device is very easy to assemble and wash. The nipple shield has petals and the funnel provides maximum comfort during pumping. All components are thought out, and for correct pumping no additional spare parts required. This is one of the most expensive models, the cost of which is fully justified by the ease of use.

The advantages of the device include a complete set of spare parts, a reliable design and simplicity of the mechanism, as well as a unique design of the pad, which makes pumping very comfortable.

Medela Harmony Manual Breast Pump

The device is the most careful and delicate. It has two modes of operation for more gentle or intensive pumping. The advantages of the device include softness and quietness of operation, ease of assembly and washing, and a replaceable membrane. However, the device does not have an anatomical breast pad, and you have to buy a nipple for feeding separately.

Chicco pump pump

This model is designed for women who have a lot of milk, since its design does not provide for stimulation of the mammary glands. These are inexpensive devices that are presented on the market in several versions.

The breast pump is a device with ideal ratio prices and quality, and in the kit there is a nipple and a bottle. However, it can only be used by women with normal milk production.

Tommee Tippee CloserToNature Manual Breast Pump

This breast pump is ideal for women who often have to pump outside the home. The breast pump has a soft silicone pad that provides a quick and efficient pumping process. The breast pump consists of only three parts, so it can be assembled and disassembled very quickly. The kit also includes special container for sterilization in the microwave and a container.

The advantages of the breast pump of this brand can be considered compactness, complete set, comfortable silicone pad with massaging function, and the special design of the funnel prevents splashing of milk. The only drawback is that the milk storage container has a small volume (only 50 ml).

Piston breast pump "World of Childhood"

Benefits of the World of Childhood breast pump include affordable price and a standard thread that fits all bottles. However, it does not have a silicone insert, is not intended for long-term use, and is not designed to be sterilized.

Overview of the best electric breast pumps

Most models are made of polypropylene, they have silicone tips and the pumping time is about 10-20 minutes. However, before use, you need to carefully read the instructions in order to know how to clean and whether the breast pump can be sterilized.

Here is an overview of the most popular models of breast electric breast pumps.

Medela Swing Maxi

This breast pump can be called professional, although it is not too expensive. It allows you to express milk from two breasts at the same time. The design prevents the penetration of milk into the motor. In addition, the device can be carried with you by attaching special belts to your belt.

The advantages of a breast pump are silent operation, fast pumping of two breasts at once, the ability to connect the device to both the mains and batteries, as well as the choice of pumping modes. The only downside is the high cost.

Medela Mini Electric

A very simple and compact device that has a smooth adjustment of pumping, has a simple design, it is easy to disassemble for washing, but it makes a lot of noise during operation.

Philips AVENT SCF332/01

It is considered one of the most comfortable, since a woman can express herself in absolutely any position. The device has a special mode for breast massage to stimulate the arrival of milk. The set includes many additional accessories so you don't need to buy anything extra.

However, this device is quite noisy and expensive compared to other analogues.

Medela Freestyle

This breast pump is considered the most efficient among devices designed for domestic use. This is a fairly expensive device that has huge amount Benefits: It has a backlit display for pumping at night, allows you to pump two breasts at the same time in a few minutes, there are two modes and five pumping rhythms, and an extensive set of optional accessories eliminates the need to buy additional things. The only drawback of the breast pump can be considered a high cost.

NUK e-MOTION

Smooth regulation of work and two phases of pumping allow you to bring the process of pumping as close as possible to the natural sucking of the breast by the baby. The device comes in a wide range of configurations, very light and compact, quiet operation, but has an inconvenient speed control.

Rules for using manual breast pumps

These breast pumps are the most popular because of their low cost. But how to use such a breast pump correctly? To understand how to properly express a breast with a breast pump and not injure it, you must follow some recommendations:

After purchase, all parts of the device are washed and sterilized;
Before the procedure, the breast must be washed clean water and hands with soap and water;
So that milk comes in better, and mom has free time, you need to apply a warm compress to the chest;
The nipple shield is applied to the areola so that the nipple is in the center. If possible, you need to adjust the pressing force for maximum comfort;
You should prepare a container for milk in advance if the bottle is not provided with the device;
If you do not yet know how to use a manual breast pump, you should know that you first need to express some milk with your hands so that more is produced (see );
The woman must take comfortable position, leaning on the back of a chair or chair, attach the nozzle to the chest and start rhythmically pressing the handle or lever of the device;
At first, milk will be released in drops, and after that - in trickles;
If everything is done correctly, the pumping process is not accompanied by pain. But if discomfort still arises, try changing the position of the funnel, after rubbing your chest with your hands;
Breasts need to be alternated;
When pumping is over, the chest should be wiped with a damp towel, and the device should be washed, sterilized and dried.

Sterilization rules

If you already know how to properly express milk with a breast pump, you are probably wondering how to properly sterilize a breast pump. This procedure is necessary because the device comes into contact with sterile breast milk.

Wash and sterilize the device immediately after use, so that everything is prepared for next pumping. Before that, all parts of the device must be thoroughly washed and the breast pump placed in a sterilizer or a regular saucepan with hot water. Parts of the device must be in hot water about 10 minutes, after which they are taken out and dried.