I have been a full time nursing mother for 13 years off and on, mostly on with 6 children. I have used many pumps, mostly for just occasional bottles. But, with my last child she had nipple confusion, I had a severe nipple pain problem and had to offer bottles in the hospital, and she wouldn't nurse after those first few tries for 6 months. Perseverance did pay off (KEEP TRYING) and she did finally nurse until she was 19 months old. The best pump for full time pumping was definately the Medela Electric Pump that you rent from the hospital. But my second option would be the Medela Manual Harmony Pump. It was definately the fastest way to pump and not at all uncomfortable. It is good for occasional pumping and if you can't afford to rent the hosp. pump, for more frequent pumping, try this one before you try electric or battery. I'm no longer nursing now, but if I ever did again, I would definately have another one of these.