Manual, battery-operated and high-end electric breast pumps work to achieve the same end: To express breast milk for storage and later use. If you're a first-time breast pump user, choosing a device can be confusing; each type of breast pump works in a slightly different way. If you intend to use your device frequently, look for a breast pump that works best for you not only in terms of cost, but efficiency, time-saving, portability and ease of use.
Breast Pump Benefits
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies breast pumps as medical devices. If you plan to return to work after your baby is born or simply feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in social situations, your breast pump can be of great benefit in supplementing your baby's feedings. The FDA indicates that breast pumps are also helpful when you're feeding multiple infants. They can also pull out a flat or inverted nipple to make breastfeeding easier, maintain and increase your milk supply and provide relief for milk-engorged breasts and plugged ducts.
Manual Pumps
Manual breast pumps have only basic features. Like all pumps, these come equipped with a breast shield and a container bag or bottle that collects the milk. Manual breast pumps require you to use your hand and wrist to express milk. Some are equipped with a handle or lever that you squeeze to suction your milk, while older-model---and more unwieldy "bicycle horn" pumps---have a hollow rubber ball attached to the breast shield, says the FDA. According to the the National Women's Health Information Center, manual pumps require you to have a certain degree of skill and concentration and may be more appropriate if you intend to use the breast pump only infrequently. Manual pumps generally cost between $30 and $50 as of summer 2010.
Powered and Electric Pumps
Powered and electric breast pumps express milk more quickly and efficiently. Powered breast pumps rely on batteries, explains the FDA, while electric pumps plug into an outlet which powers the motor. A plastic tube connects the breast shield to the motor, which comes equipped with a control panel so you can control the degree of suction. According to the La Leche League, electric breast pumps are extremely quiet and efficient, but they lack portability. Also, the FDA states that such devices may not be so handy during a power outage; have a manual breast pump on hand, just in case. According to the NWHIC, battery-powered and electric breast pumps range in cost as of 2010, from $150 to $250, and sometimes more.
Other Features and Concerns
More elaborate powered devices may come with two breast shields, which permit both breasts to be expressed simultaneously or alternately, says the FDA, cutting down on the time it takes for you to pump. Some may even be equipped with a suction feature that feels similar to your baby's suckling reflex. If you're having problems establishing your milk supply when your baby can't or won't nurse, the NWHIC states that many women find renting a high-end, hospital-quality electric breast pump from a local hospital or lactation consultant beneficial.
Other Tips
If you don't know which breast pump works best for you, ask a lactation specialist, advises the La Leche League. Not only will you make the best selection to suit your specific needs, a lactation specialist will show you how to use your new device appropriately.
