Pumps, Pumps and More Pumps
Have you noticed the number of electric pump choices available online and in stores? Let’s break down the terms used to clarify the differences in pumps.
Hospitals have industrial pumps that provide higher performance. These are termed hospital grade. Some have a life span of 10 years or more and are meant for multiple mothers to use. The suction on these pumps can be measured from 300 to 350 mmHg. Most mothers find these pumps superior at establishing their milk supply, especially if a mother has special circumstances with their baby or in a health history. Since these pumps are expensive, they are usually rented to mothers. However, some women purchase these pumps and hold on to them when they anticipate having more children later. Not all women need this type of pump to establish a good milk supply. Currently, the FDA does not have a certification process to specify which pumps are hospital-grade.
Hospital performance and hospital strength are marketing terms used by breast pump companies. These labels can describe personal pumps with a pressure of 200 to 300 mmHg. Women who don’t have special health circumstances may find this pressure range adequate for their milk supply. No matter which pumps a mother is considering, all pumps should possess a variety of adequate suction options, and also a choice of settings for cycles per minute. This is important for creating a pump session as close to the infant’s suck patterns as possible.
Many pumps have improved in quality over the years. Look for pumps with a closed system; this means that milk cannot back up into the motor. Another advancement with pumps in recent years is warranties; some companies offer up to a three-year limited warranty. A more recent alternative to traditional pumps is the wearable breast pump. Many mothers love the idea of pumping and not having a larger pump that requires plugging into an outlet. Some of the wearable pumps have one motor that can be shared for both breasts, and some include motors for each breast. In general, one-motor systems will not perform as well as two-motor systems. Two-motor systems will have a higher price point.
Another factor to keep in mind when comparing pumps is that wearables work best once a mother’s milk supply is established. Some mothers rent hospital-grade performance pumps for one month or more and later switch to a wearable type. If the wearable pump doesn’t give her the stimulation she needs throughout the day, she may also need a plug-in pump with a higher motor.
After reviewing these common differences, you may agree that professional assistance in choosing a breast pump might be helpful. While pregnant, or in the early postpartum period, consider contacting a lactation consultant who can help customize selections of breast pumps to meet your needs. Please feel free to contact me for further information and assistance. I would be delighted to help you find the right pump for your individual needs.