All About Breast Pumping: Comfort and the Right Pump for Your Situation

Your choice of pump is more important than you think

The choice of a pump has a direct impact on your pumping session and milk production. Pumping is not only a way to remove milk, but also a process that is influenced by your physical and mental state. Oxytocin is responsible for the let-down reflex and ensures that milk is released, while cortisol (the stress hormone) can inhibit milk let-down. That is why it is important to choose a comfortable and practical pump that suits your situation, so that you can pump in a relaxed manner and your milk production remains optimal.

What types of pumps are there?

The choice of a pump depends on your living and working situation. There are several options:

• Electric breast pump with power cord – Suitable for home or work if you have a permanent place with a power outlet.

  • Advantages : Powerful, efficient and generally less expensive than portable pumps.

  • Cons : Requires an electrical outlet, not portable, and requires you to remove your outer clothing.

    • Option: The Medela Swing Maxi can be used on batteries and mains power. This is the least silent pump.

• Hands-free pumping with a pumping bra – Lets you pump without using your hands, but requires removing outer clothing.

  • Benefits : You can perform other tasks while pumping.

  • Disadvantages : Less practical for frequent use because you have to take off your outer clothing all the time.

    • Option: The Medela Freestyle Flex has a rechargeable battery, is quiet and light. Thanks to the transparent breast shields, they can be easily placed in the correct position.

• In-bra pump (portable pump) – A compact pump that fits in your bra, ideal for discreet pumping.

  • Benefits : Portable, discreet and flexible.

  • Disadvantages : Often more expensive than other pumps.

    • Option: The Elvie pump is the quietest double electric pump and is completely discreet because it is 2 separate pumping devices. You will usually be able to pump about 5 to 6 times before it needs to be recharged.

    • The Medela Freestyle is not a bad second place. The difference with the Elvie is that the Medela Swing has breast shields with a tube leading to the pump itself. This makes it a bit less invisible. You will usually be able to pump about four times before it needs to be recharged.

    • Vulpes Goods offers two portable pumps that fit in your bra. This pump is less powerful, larger and heavier, and is louder, which can affect discretion. However, it is considerably less expensive than the Elvie. For those looking for an affordable option, these pumps may be a good choice.

Pumping at work

Pumping at work requires good preparation:

• An electric pump with a pumping bra or power cord is effective, but requires you to expose your upper body, which can be uncomfortable.

• An in-bra pump is more discreet, depending on the model. Smaller, round models are less noticeable than larger versions.

• Noise level : Some pumps make more noise than others, which can be disruptive in a work environment as well as for yourself.

• Pumping room at work : A separate pumping room offers more privacy and comfort than a shared space.

  
  

Second hand or a new pump?

A second-hand pump can save money, but hygiene and functionality are important considerations:

• Always buy new attachments and bottles to prevent cross-contamination and virus transmission.

• Check the condition of the stock and make sure all parts are functioning properly.

• Reimbursement by health insurance : Some insurers reimburse part of the purchase costs of a pump, which can make a new pump financially more attractive. Check your policy conditions.

  
  

A silent, hands-free pump: a good investment?

For mothers who want to pump discreetly and flexibly, a quiet, hands-free in-bra pump is a practical choice. It allows you to pump without an electrical outlet, tubes or wires, and without interrupting your activities. This can help you breastfeed for longer and reduce your dependency on formula.

Conclusion

A well-chosen pump makes a big difference in your breastfeeding journey. Choose a model that fits your lifestyle and work or home situation. Want to know more about pumping and the best options? Check out the recommended pumps via the links and find out which one suits you best!

Transparency: I am not sponsored by the brands I mention. The advice in this blog is based on my own experience and knowledge about pumping. The links in this article are affiliate links, which means that I receive a commission of 2.5% per purchase when you purchase a product through these links. This does not cost you anything extra, but helps me to continue sharing valuable information.