Types of Breast Pumps
Welcome to Maternal by Sentido’s ultimate guide to the different types of breast pumps. Understanding the various breast pump options available can help you make an informed choice that will suit your breastfeeding journey best. Breastfeeding provides essential nutrition for newborns, but many mothers find that using a breast pump can significantly enhance their breastfeeding experience. Breast pumps allow mothers to express milk, providing flexibility and convenience. This guide explores the types of breast pumps, helping you make an informed choice that fits your lifestyle and breastfeeding goals.
At Maternal by Sentido, we understand that choosing the right breast pump is crucial. That's why we facilitate ordering breast pumps through insurance, helping you access the best options without the burden of high costs. This guide will cover the various types of breast pumps, their features, and how you can order one through your insurance plan.
Manual Breast Pumps
A manual breast pump is a handheld pump in which you use your hand to manually express milk rather than using electrical power. These pumps are typically lightweight, portable, and easy to use, making them a popular choice for mothers who need a convenient and affordable option for occasional pumping.
Benefits: Manual breast pumps are lightweight, making them easy to transport and use on the go. Manual pumps do not require recharging a battery or electricity to use. They are also cost effective and significantly cheaper than electric pump options.
Cons: A manual breast pump is not as strong as an electric pump so use can be time consuming and not compatible with a busy schedule. It also requires your own strength to operate, which can be tiring if you are pumping frequently.
Top rated Manual Breast Pumps:
Electric Breast Pumps
Rechargeable Battery-Powered Electric Breast Pumps:
Electric breast pumps are designed to make the pumping process quick and efficient. They can be categorized into two main types based on their power source: rechargeable battery-powered pumps and plug-in pumps. Here’s a breakdown of each type:
A rechargeable battery-powered electric breast pump contains a battery that can be removed and charged between pumping sessions. These pumps require a charged battery to use, but do not need to be plugged into an outlet while in use making battery-powered breast pumps great for on the go use.
Benefits: Because the pumps do not require an outlet, battery-powered breast pumps are a great option for busy moms who pump frequently outside of the home. Because they do not have an electrical cord, battery-powered breast pumps allow for freedom of movement while using.
Cons: Battery life may become an issue, especially with frequent use. This means you may be charging your battery between each pumping session. Before selecting a battery-powered breast pump, do your research on how long it takes to charge the battery to avoid long charging times.
Top rated battery-powered electric breast pumps:
Plug-In Electric Breast Pumps:
Plug-in electric breast pumps are designed to be connected directly to an electrical outlet during use. These pumps often provide consistent power and performance for frequent pumping sessions.
Benefits: Plug-in breast pumps contain the highest strength motors leading to the most efficient milk expression. They also contain customizable settings that fit your unique comfort level. If you pump frequently, a plug-in breast pump will likely be the most long-lasting breast pump option.
Cons: These breast pumps require electricity and an outlet to operate, so they are not conducive to moms who are frequently on the go. You are also confined to a small range of motion due to the need to be plugged in. Due to its larger motor, the plug-in breast pumps are typically heavier and bulkier than other breast pump options.
Top rated plug-in electric breast pumps:
Wearable Breast Pumps
Wearable breast pumps are designed for hands-free use and are often discreet and portable. These pumps fit into your bra, allowing you to pump while you move around. They have a cup-shaped design that contains the motor and the milk collection portion. Wearable breast pumps are battery operated and do not have bulky tubes or cords.
Benefits: Wearable breast pumps are extremely portable and great for on the go pumping sessions. They are also usually quiet in their operation, meaning you will have discretion while in use.
Cons: Wearable breast pumps are typically more expensive than other electric breast pumps. Also, the milk collection portions are smaller than other types of breast pumps.
Top rated wearable breast pumps:
Motif Aura Handsfree Wearable Breast Pump
Zomee Fit Wearable Breast Pump
Freemie Independence II Standard Double Electric Portable Breast Pump
Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps
Hospital-grade breast pumps are heavy-duty, high-performance pumps designed for frequent use. They are often rented from hospitals or specialized medical suppliers and are suitable for mothers with specific needs, although many eclectic breast pumps include “hospital-grade” strength.
Benefits: If you are planning on exclusively pumping, a hospital-grade breast pump might be your best option due to its reliable strength and expression capabilities. They are also extremely efficient at expressing milk, leading to a higher milk supply.
Cons: Hospital-grade breast pumps are typically bigger and bulkier than other electric breast pumps, making them more difficult to transport. They are also more expensive than less powerful breast pumps.
Top rated Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps:
Single vs Double Electric Breast Pumps?
A single electric breast pump is a breast pump that only allows you to express milk from one breast at a time. This works best for moms who plan on pumping and breastfeeding at the same time, or moms who rarely pump. A single electric breast pump would be a more time-consuming option for moms who pump frequently, due to the ability to only express milk from one breast at a time.
A double electric breast pump is a breast pump that allows you to express milk from both of your breasts at the same time. While you can express milk from both breasts, you can also use one at a time, making a double electric breast pump suitable for single pumping as well. This option is best for moms who are choosing to exclusively pump, or pump frequently.
Why use a Breast Pump?
A breast pump is an excellent milk expression tool for nursing mothers. They provide flexibility, convenience, and can support your breast-feeding journey in multiple ways.
Milk Storage: Using a breast pump allows you to express milk for later use, making it easier to feed your baby when you aren’t around.
Building a milk supply: Pumping allows for you to express milk and place in a milk storage bag and freeze, so your support system can be prepared for feeding your baby if you are not around or if you are unable to nurse your baby.
Relieving discomfort: Pumping can relieve engorgement and help maintain comfort when you're away from your baby or need to skip a feeding.
Feeding flexibility: Pumping allows your partner or other caregivers to bottle feed your baby, strengthening their bond with the baby and providing you with a break.
Return to Work: Many mothers return to work after maternity leave. A breast pump ensures they can continue providing breast milk to their babies, maintaining their milk supply while balancing professional responsibilities.
Special Situations: Mothers with health issues or those with premature babies may rely on breast pumps to provide milk for their infants.
How to Choose the Right Breast Pump?
After going over the different types of breast pumps, decide which kind fits best into your lifestyle and meets your needs. Here are some key factors you should consider when choosing what breast pump is right for you:
Frequency of Use: If you plan to pump regularly, an electric or hospital-grade pump may be best. For occasional pumping, a manual or wearable pump may fit better into your lifestyle.
Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to invest in a pump. Manual pumps are the most affordable, while electric and hospital-grade options can vary in price.
Lifestyle: Consider your daily routine and how much flexibility you need. Wearable breast pumps may be ideal for busy moms, while traditional electric pumps are great for home use.
Comfort and Fit: Ensure the pump you choose is comfortable and fits well. A proper flange size is crucial for effective pumping and to prevent discomfort.
If you would like to talk to an expert about which breast pump is right for you, speak with one of our lactation consultants and they can walk you through your options or download our Breast Pump Comparison Chart.
Types of Breast Pumps FAQ
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Using a breast pump offers numerous benefits, including:
Increased flexibility and convenience in feeding.
The ability to maintain milk supply while returning to work.
Relief from engorgement or discomfort.
The opportunity for partners or caregivers to participate in feeding.
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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.
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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 our 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.
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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.
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The frequency of pumping varies based on your individual needs. If you’re exclusively pumping, aim for about 8-12 pumping sessions per day, similar to how often a newborn would feed. For occasional pumping, pump whenever you feel the need to relieve fullness or if you are planning on leaving your baby.
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Yes, many mothers successfully pump while breastfeeding, especially if using a double electric pump. This can be a convenient way to stimulate milk production while feeding your baby.
Can I get an INSURANCE COVERD Breast Pump?
At Maternal by Sentido, we offer breast pump orders through insurance, leaving little to no out of pocket cost for you. The steps to receiving a breast pump directly to your door are simple and straight forward:
Once you are 27 to 28 weeks pregnant, fill out our Insurance Eligibility Form, conveniently located on our website. Input your information, and we will handle the rest.
Once we receive confirmation of coverage, we will let you know what pumps your insurance covers, and help you choose which pump is right for you.
Confirm your pump of choice and it will be sent directly to your door.
Receive access to complimentary lactation support at your disposable from one of our licensed and experienced lactation consultants.
Why should I order through Maternal by Sentido?
When you order a breast pump through Maternal by Sentido, you are able to use insurance to cover the cost of your breast pump, which is a budget friendly option for moms who are planning on pumping or breast feeding.
You will also get access to complementary lactation support from one of our expert lactation consultants. Read about the benefits of lactation consultants.
When you order a breast pump, you will gain access to downable and educational material on everything maternal health related. We also have an online maternal health community of supportive moms.
At Maternal by Sentido, we also offer nutrition consulting services for new moms. Read about the benefits of nutrition consulting from one of our Registered Dietitians.
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