Breast Pump Q&A
This blog was written in paid partnership with Dr. Brown's.
What is a Breast Pump?
A breast pump is a mechanical device that helps you remove breast milk from your breast. It's important to empty your milk supply because your body responds to demand. This means that generally, the more you breastfeed or pump, the more milk your body will make. Breast pumps come in a variety of different forms and types, with a variety of accessories. For the most part, the breast pump you select should depend on your needs, how often you will use it and what feels best for you. Check in with your health insurance before you purchase a breast pump or add it to your baby registry, as they will cover the cost of a new breast pump or a rental, and you will want to understand your specific coverage terms. (See more info below.)
Why Should You Have a Breast Pump?
Lactating parents should consider having a breast pump on hand for multiple reasons. If baby is having issues latching, you may wish to protect your supply by starting to pump. If you plan to be away from your baby for an extended amount of time, whether that's going back to work or traveling, it may be important to pump, if you wish to feed your baby breast milk while you're away, and/or keep your supply going. Additionally, some parents wish to exclusively pump. You can read more about that here.
When Should I Get a Breast Pump?
The best time to get your breast pump would be during your third trimester. So, you may wish to plan ahead and consider a prenatal breastfeeding consultation with your IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) during your third trimester. They can help narrow down which type of pump would be best for your breastfeeding journey.
Does My Insurance Cover a Breast Pump?
Health insurances must cover one breast pump per pregnancy (or per year). If you are unable to find your plan details or wish to confirm coverage, give your insurance company a call. They will be able to tell you which breast pumps are covered and when you might be able to receive your pump. Some insurances may ask for a valid breast pump prescription from your OBGYN.
Are All Breast Pumps Created Equal?
The short answer is no. Every breast pump is designed a little differently. Some have a stronger suction than others. Some have different pumping modes and settings. It can be very difficult as a first-time mom to try to figure out which pump is best for you. How do you know what to look for in selecting a pump? An IBCLC can help answer those questions and help guide you in making a decision. Some providers even allow you to demo or rent several pumps before making a decision. Overall, while all pumps are "functional" some are definitely better than others. Dr. Brown's has a great double electric pump option as well as a manual breast pump.
What Are the Differences Between a Manual Pump vs. Electric Breast Pump?
Manual breast pumps work without electricity, and you express with your hands. You can only express one breast at a time with a manual hand pump. Check out the Dr. Brown's Manual Breast Pump. These can be great for travel or on-the-go, since they can be used anywhere and without access to electricity.
Electric breast pumps are operated either through a power outlet or a battery. The market offers many pump models that allow for single or double breast expressing at one time, check out the Dr. Brown's CustomFlow Double Electric Breast Pump. For pumping mothers who may need to express daily or exclusively, an electric breast pump is essential and what I typically recommend as an IBCLC.
What Is a Hands-Free Pump?
Hands-free electric pumps are rising in popularity. Some mothers like to multitask while they are pumping. This can be very convenient for a mom that has multiple kids and/or for working moms. While it can be a great, convenient option, these pumps are typically not covered by insurance and therefore often come with a costly price tag. Also, the suction is not always as strong as a standard double electric pump. Depending on your pump schedule – you may want to ensure that if you purchase a hands-free electric pump that you also have access to a double electric breast pump.
Which Type of Breast Pump Do Lactation Consultants Recommend?
Most lactation consultants recommend a strong, double electric plug-in breast pump. This will be your best option to keep your supply needs consistent by completely emptying your breasts during each pump session. Again, the Dr. Brown's Customflow Double Electric Breast Pump is a great option.
Does Flange Size Matter?
The MOST important part of pumping is making sure you have the right flange size. Most pumps come with the standard 24/28mm flange, but most people are not this size! This is the most common problem I see as an IBCLC. Most women need a much smaller flange size. If your flange size is too big, your nipples will swell, causing discomfort, which may lead to not being able to properly empty your breasts during each pump session. Having the proper fitting flange is vital to maximize your milk output and comfort. This will yield the most milk in the least amount of time.
How Do You Measure Flange Sizes?
There are many flange rulers you can buy or download online, but your local IBCLC should be able to size you properly in person or virtually if you have your own flange ruler. Dr. Brown's has a measurement guide for their flanges.
How Can You Tell if Your Flange Is the Wrong Size?
Red flags for wrong flange size are pain while pumping, nipple swelling, and/or discolored nipples after pumping. Low volume output can be another sign to evaluate your flange size. When you have the right flange size you should have no discomfort while pumping. Lastly, your nipples should look the same after pumping as they did before.
What Are Some Tips for Moms Who Wish to Pump at Work?
When you are away from your baby, you want to pump when baby should be eating to maintain your supply. Having a pump that fits your work needs is important. If possible, a great option is to leave a pump and all of your supplies at work, so you have less to carry and think about each day during your commute. If you're on-the-go or taking public transportation to work, consider a manual pump so you can pump wherever you are. Staying on a routine pumping schedule will keep your milk supply consistent and help avoid engorgement or pain.
When Should a Pumping Mom Reach Out to a Lactation Consultant for Help?
Always reach out to an IBCLC or your doctor if you are experiencing pain or not getting an adequate volume of milk when pumping. Pumping should NEVER be painful. Your supply goal should be at least 2-4 oz total (not each breast) if you are replacing a pump/feeding session. It should not take you longer than 30 minutes to get adequate milk removal. If you are struggling, reach out to your local IBCLC who will assess your struggles and help you troubleshoot.
About the author:
Leana L. Thompson, RN, BSN, IBCLC Leana is a Registered Nurse, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and a mom of two little girls under age 2. She lives in Gilbert, Arizona, where she owns her own business, LactationNow. She worked as a Mother-Baby RN for nearly a decade in hospitals all across the United States. Leana offers in-home and virtual lactation consultations. LactationNow's goal is to provide services that give you and your partner the ultimate mother-baby experience before and after you leave the hospital. She covers prenatal breast consults, weaning consults, and everything in between. She also shares pumping and breastfeeding tips and tricks on her social media (@lactationnow) to support families across the globe. Contact Leana at Leana@lactationnow.com for virtual or in person IBCLC support.