From Pregnancy To Baby Blog» Breast Pumps

Are the expensive breast pumps worth it?

From Pregnancy To Baby — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 23:56:16 +0000

With my last daughter I bought an inexpensive breast pump and it did not really seem to work well and made it difficult. I am thinking about investing in one of the Medela breast pumps, but they are $300 and up. Are they really worth it? I do not want to waste the money if not because we are really tight on funds with this new baby. If anyone can share their experiences with this style and was it worth it, that would be greatly appreciated. Thnaks.
omg, yes, they are worth it!!! The cheap pumps are crap, you get what you pay for! I love my medeall pump in style, I just had to get the right size breast shileds and it works great. If you have any problems, like low milk supply, premie baby, baby not gaining weight ect… insurance usually picks up most of the cost. All you need is a script from your doctor and then go to a medical supply place and get it for around $20. I would do it if you can afford it. Most hospitals also offer a rental program on hospital grade pumps and that may help if your short on money.

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When breast feeding at 4 mths should you start formula?

From Pregnancy To Baby — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:35:21 +0000

My wifes finding it hard breast feeding our 4mth old son and wants to put him on formula. she says she wants to combine feed him (breast & formula). is this advisable? i dont agree to do this as i think breast feeding is better for him… can anyone please offer me any advice?
What is it she’s having trouble with? If it’s a question of feeling like she’s nursing ALL the time, that’ll pass as he gets more efficient at draining a breast. Also he can start some solids at 6 months, which won’t cut out breastfeeding, but can replace some of it. At 6 months I started giving my daughter some rice cereal with pumped milk in it. If she’s tired from night feedings, consider cosleeping so she can nurse lying down and get some sleep. That saved me!! Perhaps she could be persuaded to pump sometimes and let you take some feedings. Breastmilk is far and away the BEST food ever, so point that out. Also, germs transferred to your baby enter the breast and come back out to him as antibodies, so it’s so good for their health. Good for you for realizing formula isn’t good enough! Be sensitive though, because I’m sure she’s exhausted and liable to be crabby!

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What are the best kinds of breast pumps to use?

From Pregnancy To Baby — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 05:00:59 +0000

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I am 26 weeks pregnant and I plan to breast feed my daughter exclusively! I also want to pump my milk so that her dad and others can feed her. What types of breast pumps worked the best for you! I hear the electric ones can get pretty expensive and the manual ones aren’t to good! What worked for you? Thanks for answering!
Any pump made by Medela is good. Don’t be fooled by someone telling you that a manual is bad. They aren’t great for daily use, but if you get a good quality manual pump you are much better off than a low quality electric. My general rule of thumb is if the electric costs less than $150 you are wasting your money. The cheap electrics will really tear your nipples up!! Avoid shopping places like Walmart for your pump. They are more focused on carrying products that will make them the most profit, even if they are worthless. Target is a much better store to look at if you are interested in actually buying one. I am currently saving to buy a Medela Pump in Style, which is the only retail pump that contains hospital technology. It is about $279, but very worth the money. You would be suprised at how much more milk you are able to pump with a good quality pump. The quality makes all the difference. Until I get the money though, I’m making do with my Medela Harmony manual pump. They are around $35 in stores, but mine was given to me by the WIC lactation consultant in my area. It works just fine for my needs at the moment. I get much more out of it than I did with the $40 evenflo electric that I bought with my first child! I actually choose the manual over the evenflo! Honestly, I trust anything with the name Medela on it. Many companies out there make pumps, but a majority of them are first and foremost bottle companies. Their main priority is to sell bottles and bottle supplies. Medela is exclusively a breastfeeding company. They are most commonly used in hospitals as well. They are constantly striving to make breastfeeding a better experiance for mom and baby. Other than that, you can always check your local WIC office. Some states will provide a double electric pump for exclusively breastfeeding moms. I know Oklahoma, Texas, and California do. Oklahoma gives out the Ameda Purely Yours double electric pump. I’ve never seen them in stores here and have read very few reviews, but I took a breastfeeding class and the Lactation consultant teaching it said they are pretty good. You really need to decide how you are going to use the pump before you buy. The manuals are best for occasional use. They are great for something like an occasional bottle or building up a little bit of emergency stash. I use mine at the start of every feeding because my milk comes out to fast for my baby. I can also keep it in my diaper bag for emergency situations. If something like this is all you are planning on doing, I’d recomend just spending your money on the manual rather than wasting it on a big fancy one. The Medela Harmony is great. It is comfortable to use and has 2 different types of sucking simulations you can use. If you are going to need to pump to go back to work or something you might consider an electric pump. Most moms agree that the double electrics are best because they are quicker, but the singles are cheaper. You have to weigh whether the time or money issue is more important. If worse comes to worse, go ask a lactation consultant which pump she would recomend for you. Good luck and congrats!

Technorati Tags: Baby Feeding, Breast Feeding, Breast Pump

Ameda Purely Yours Breast Pump

From Pregnancy To Baby — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 05:00:59 +0000

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Ameda Purely Yours BreastPump with Two Belts, Dual HygieniKit and AC Power Adapter from Hollister Portable breast pump offers 8 adjustable suction levels and 4 cycle speeds to create a stimulation that feels both natural and comfortable. Offers the ultimate in flexibility and portability Provides numerous variations to mimic baby’s suckling, even as baby matures and grows. Operates on 3 power sources, AC Adapter, AA batteries or optional car adapter, allowing the flexibility to pump anywhere, anytime. Weighs only one pound HygieniKit allows single or dual pumping; prevents contaminants from entering milk with unique closed milk collection system. Pump directly into bottles or freezer bagstwo built-in holders accommodate either container.

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The First Years Natural Comfort Breast Pump

From Pregnancy To Baby — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 05:00:59 +0000

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The First Years Natural Comfort Breast Pump is the only breast pump that’s hand-held, and has automatic pump-and-release action that simulates baby’s natural sucking pattern. The choice of battery or plug operation makes it extremely versatile. It also features a unique soft, textured shield to aid in letdown and help stimulate milk production. Everything’s contained in a discreet and durable case.

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Lansinoh Double Electric Breast Pump

From Pregnancy To Baby — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 05:00:59 +0000

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Dedicated to Breastfeeding Mothers – For Long Term*, daily use at home or away. Adjust speed and suction for personal preference Patented system prevents milk back up in tubing and pump Easy to use – easy to clean.

Technorati Tags: Baby Product Review, Breast Pump, Lansinoh Double Electric Breast Pump