If you decide to breastfeed your child, you must plan for his feedings when you will be away from him. To accomplish this, you will need a breast pump. You can use a manual or an electric breast pump. Either will do the job. To decide which you want to use, consider your time constraints, where and how often you plan to use it and your budget.
Significance
When you breastfeed, your body adjusts to the demands of your nursing baby. The more he nurses, the more milk your body produces. On the other hand, breastfeeding less frequently can threaten your milk production. You must frequently remove the milk from your breasts with a manual or electric breast pump to maintain your supply.
Function
Both manual and electric breast pumps work by using suction to remove milk from your breasts. The primary difference in the two types of breast pumps is the method by which the suction is generated.
When you use a manual breast pump you generate the suction by using your hand to squeeze a bulb, lever or handle that is attached to the breast shield. Electric breast pumps use a motor to provide the suction via tubing that connects the motor to the breast shields.
Considerations of Manual Pumps
If you will only need to pump breast milk occasionally, a manual pump may be best for you. Manual breast pumps often cost less than $50, so they are more affordable than electric models. They also have fewer parts and require no electricity, so you can use them anywhere.
A manual pump, though, may not provide adequate suction to maintain your supply. Manual breast pump use requires hand strength and may be tiring. You can pump from only one breast at a time with most models, which requires longer pumping sessions.
Considerations of Electric Pumps
Electric breast pumps are best if you plan to pump on a regular basis, as they provide stronger suction. Many models allow you to adjust the strength and frequency of the suction cycles to more closely mimic your baby's nursing action. This can result in greater milk production. You can also pump from both breasts at the same time with an electric pump, cutting your pumping time in half.
A major drawback of electric breast pumps is lack of portability. You must have access to a working electrical outlet to use an electric pump, and you must assemble and disassemble numerous parts. An electric pump is also more expensive, usually costing over $200.
Warnings
Most manual and electric pumps come with only one set of breast shields, which may not fit you properly. You should be able to center the shield over your entire nipple without pain or discomfort. Before purchasing a breast pump, make sure that you can purchase a different-sized set of shields that will work with your pump if necessary.
No matter what type of breast pump you buy, ask for a demonstration if at all possible. Some manual pumps are hard to operate, and some electric pumps are extremely loud. A demonstration will allow you to make sure that you can properly and discreetly operate the pump of your choice.
