What are the Different Types of Breast Pumps? 

There are four types of breast pumps: Electric breast pumps, battery powered breast pumps, manual breast pumps, and hospital grade breast pumps.  

Electric Breast Pumps: Electric breast pumps are typically the most powerful breast pumps on the market and require being plugged into an outlet. Most offer single or double pumping capability, meaning you can use the breast pump on one or both breasts during a session. Electric breast pumps also offer customizable speeds, power of suction, and closely mimic your baby while breastfeeding.  

Battery Powered Breast Pumps: Similar to electric breast pumps, battery powered pumps have customizable settings, but might not be as powerful as an electric. The trade off is battery powered breast pump’s portability, as you do not need to use the breast pump close to an outlet. Battery powered breast pumps are great for moms who frequently pump on the go or at work. 

Manual Breast Pumps: Manual Breast Pumps contain a breast shield, and once placed over the breast, you must use the hand pump attached to the breast pump to create suction that expels milk into the container attached to the bottom of the pump. Though hands free breast pumps require you to express the milk, they are portable, lightweight, and affordable.  

Hospital Grade Breast Pumps: Hospital grade breast pumps are usually rental based because of their extra strength. Moms who typically require hospital grade pumps are experiencing difficulties expressing milk or feeding, a NICU stay, or the birth of multiples.  

What are the different parts of a breast pump? 

All breast pumps contain three simple parts: a breast shield, a pump, and a milk container. 

Breast Sheild: A cone shaped cup that fits over the nipple and surrounding area.  

Pump: Created a gentle vacuum that expresses milk. The pump is usually attached to the breast shield or to tubing that takes it to the shield.    

Milk Container: a detachable container that catches the breast milk expressed by the pump. It is typically a bottle that a nipple can be attached to and given directly to the baby or can be poured into a milk storage bag.   

Read about how to clean your breast pump here.

How much does a Breast Pump cost? 

Out of pocket cost for breast pumps ranges from the pump and brand you choose. Manual breast pumps can cost anywhere from $20 to $60. An electric breast pump can range anywhere from $100 to $3500.  

Most insurances offer coverage for a breast pump. If you are curious if you qualify for a free breast pump, fill out of Insurance Eligibility form. Once approved, you will have access to the brands and pumps your insurance covers, and when you order your breast pump through Maternal by Sentido, you will have access to complimentary lactation support.  

What are the Best Brands of Breast Pumps? 

Maternal by Sentido carries these top quality breast pump brands: Ameda, Ardo, Baby Buddah, Elvie, Freemie, Lanoish, Medela, Motif, Spectra, Zomme.  

When can I start using a Breast Pump? 

Though you can begin using a breast pump right after birth, it is recommended that you wait until you have an established breast feeding routine with your baby, or about six weeks after birth. If your baby has a low birth weight, you anticipate being separated from your baby for an extended period of time, or instructed by a doctor or lactation consultant, you may begin using a breast pump sooner. When you plan on going back to work or school, it is best to start pumping 3 to 4 weeks before that, so you can become familiar with using a breast pump and already have a supply built up. 

What is Breast Pump Suction? 

Suction, or power, refers to the speed at which the vacuum is set to express milk from your nipples. On an electric breast pump, this setting is customizable to your unique needs.  

How long should a Breast Pump Pumping Session last? 

Milk is produced and expressed differently for everyone, but a typical pumping session using a breast pump should last between 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your comfortability. If you are unsure if your pumping is normal, seek help from your doctor, or a lactation consultant.  

What are flanges and do they come with a breast pump? 

The flange is the cone shaped piece of the breast pump that fits on your breast around the nipple that creates the suction that expresses milk. Before choosing your breast pump, check if it comes with different sized flanges. You can usually purchase different sized flanges for your breast pump, but it might be an added out of pocket cost. Having the right sized flange for your breast pump ensures that you are expressing the most milk and keeping your supply up.  

Is using a Breast Pump Painful? 

The short answer is no, using a breast pump should not be painful. If you have an electric pump, play with the setting and find what is most comfortable for you. If pain continues, it is important to contact your doctor or a lactation consultant to get to the bottom of your pain and discomfort.  

What should you do with Milk being Pumped from a Breast Pump? 

There are a few ways you can use the milk expressed from breast pumps. If you spend extended periods of time away from your baby, pumping is the best way to have a supply of milk ready for your partner or childcare provider to give your baby. After pumping, take the milk collected from the breast pump and place it into a bottle or milk storage bag and store properly. Using a breast pump can also help you keep up your supply. You can also use the breast milk collected from your breast pump, even if it is placed on the side your baby is not breast feeding on, to keep a supply of milk in your freezer. There are many different ways you can use your breast milk.  

What are milk storage bags? 

Milk storage bags are CDC recommended bags made out of BPA free plastic that are durable, food-grade, pre-sanitized, and created specifically for storing breast milk. Choosing a bag is based on your personal needs. Research bag shapes, pour-ability, size, if it fits onto your breast pump, and if there is space to write the date collected on the bag.  

Make sure you are aware of milk storage guidelines before you begin your pumping journey.