With all the pumps on the market today, it can be tough deciding which pump to get!!!

Here is the pump lowdown…..

Short Term Use pumps-

The Medela Harmony pump is the least expensive pump of this group because it is a manual pump. There are many manual pumps out there! But, this one definitely stands out in the crowd. It is extremely efficient, comfortable, and quick(for a manual pump-about 20 minutes or less to pump both sides). It will fit in any bag and can be used just about anywhere because it is silent. No motor, no noise! If you plan to pump for evenings out and to allow others to help with feedings, this pump will be your perfect companion.

The Playtex Petite breast pump is the newest pump in this guide. It is a high-quality, discreet-sized electric breast pump designed for ultimate comfort and efficiency. Three levels of fully adjustable suction let you control your own pumping experience. The unique, patented Soft Comfort Breast Cups massage the breast while pumping and provide suction from the side, rather than pulling and tugging directly on the nipple as many other systems do, for ultimate comfort and fast let-down. It can be used for single or double pumping. This pump can be used about 4-8 times a week.

The newest member of the Medela family is the Swing Single Electric Pump. It has Medela's 2-phase technology which helps to stimulate a quick let-down and faster pumping sessions. This pump is great for use about 4-8 times a week. It comes with a drawstring bag which can carry the bottles, pump, collection kit, etc. Because of the 2-phase cycling, this pump will be as fast as many of the double pumps on the market today!

Long Term Use Professional Pumps- Despite all of the marketing, the Pump In Style is not the best professional grade pump anymore! There are a few alternatives that equal or exceed the quality and efficiency of the Medela Pump In Style breast pumps. Ameda, Avent and Playtex have professional grade pumps that(in my opinion) have surpassed Medela in safety and comfort. The Avent IQ Duo, the Playtex Embrace and the Ameda Purely Yours were made for the full time working mom or the mom who will need to pump many times daily. Pumping times are about 10 minutes or less with these pumps. They were made to increase and sustain milk supply over long periods of time and are perfect for adoptive moms who want to initiate a milk supply. These pumps are extremely comfortable. The Purely Yours is slightly lighter in weight than the Playtex and the Avent. All three pumps come with all of the accessories and very nice storage totes/carryall bags. The Purely Yours also has the option of a backpack version. If you are a working mom or must be away from baby for long periods of time, these pumps will easily take care of your needs(and REALLY quickly).

As a final note, I want to remind you that Ameda , Avent and Playtex are the ONLY pumps that protect breast milk against contamination. . Outside bacteria, viruses and other germs cannot get into the motor and contaminate the milk. Medela breast pumps DO NOT have this protective feature…..something very important to consider when purchasing a breast pump.

Call 1-877-892-4932 more information. We sell Ameda, Playtex, Avent and Medela and have been top breast pump retailers for over 9 years! Feel free to check out our auctions. And email or call us with any questions! We have Lactation Specialists eager to help you!

Heidi Humphries,RN,BSN,IBCLC

Ebay name-mothersmilkbreastfeeding

Email address-hprn@aol.com