Breastpump Extras

Breastpump Extras

Is buying a "barely used" breastpump from ebay bad?

Its weird to think of pumping milk from my breasts knowing it was on someone else's too...but it is SOOO much cheaper to purchase a used one than a brand new one....Should I just suck it up and pay the extra money for a NIB or should I get a used one?

You should either rent a hospital grade pump from the hospital (a closed motor system unlike the personal use pumps which become contaminated) where you give birth or buy a brand NIB. This is because a breastpump is like any other personal care item, like a toothbrush or hairbrush and cannot be sterilized. Open pump systems with electric motors can become contaminated by the viruses and bacteria on a mom's body and in her milk. These can reproduce then infect you directly when you use the used pump, regardless of whether you buy new breast flanges and tubing. Please don't buy used...its just not at all safe. Check out La Leche League as they strongly discourage this as diseases such as Hepetitis can be passed through shared or used breastpumps and infect you and baby. Breastmilk is a bodily fluid (like blood)...its the equivalent of sharing a needle.

Medela Pump in Style Original Double Electric Pump was the pump recommended to me by my lactation consultant. It was an investment (we spent part of our tax return on it last year) but totally worth the money. I got so much use out of the pump and it gave me great peace of mind to know that it had never been used by anyone else.

I'm speaking as a Mom who has breastfed and pumped for two babies and its just not okay to buy a used pump from a medical perspective...its dangerous! Any doctor would say "no".

Choosing the Right Breastpump

It doesn't matter whether you need to leave the house for work, need to store extra milk for later, or need to have milk available for someone else who's feeding the baby. Having a good breastpump is an essential part of having a child. There are two major types of breastpump - manual and battery/electric. Single and double models are available. If you need to pump often, consider a dual electric model. However, if you don't need to pump often, consider a smaller, less expensive model.

Every mother wants what's best for her baby. Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to give your child the nutrition and antibodies that he or she needs. However, it can get in the way of other obligations and work schedules. That means it can be hard to breastfeed every time your child needs to eat. A breastpump allows you to offer your baby all the benefits of breastfeeding, but without losing the ability to engage in other activities. It also means that you can turn feeding over to dad or another family member from time to time.

There are lots of different models of breastpumps on the market. Different women prefer different styles. The most basic is the single pump, for one breast at a time, a lot like the way a baby nurses. Career women or those who can't be home at all times often prefer this style, since it's small and easy to take along with you. Miniature pumps are also great for traveling. They work just like a full sized pump, but you can take them almost anywhere. Single and double models are available in this size, and are practical for almost any woman who can't be home at all times. A double breastpump is a good idea if you have twins - you'll need to pump more often than a mom who just has one baby. If you can pump at home and have twins, choose a full size double breastpump. The extra milk is also useful if you're trying to get others involved in feeding your child, too.

Most single, double, or mini breastpumps require a power source, whether they're plug in or battery powered. Battery powered breastpumps are best if you'll need to pump in many different places. That's because you don't have to find a place to plug the pump in. However, these pumps don't offer the same amount of power as an electrical pump. That means they might not be as efficient. If you need to pump often, or are new to it, think about using a plug in model, which can expel more milk. There are a few pumps that let you use both options - an adapter can be used when there's an outlet available, or you can use batteries when you can't find one.

Many different companies which also produce other baby products make breastpumps, too. Medela is one of the most popular makers, and make some of the strongest breastpumps available. This manufacturer offers both single and double pumps, and manufactures carrying cases and accessories, too. You can also find pumps from Evenflo, which is known for pumps that suit the needs of new moms well. Prices from Evenflo tend to be lower than those at Medela. Ameda and Avent make single and double breastpumps, and include accessories for their models with the pumps. These companies all make high quality breastpumps that are practical and affordable for new moms who want to breastfeed without all the hassle.

You'll have to take a look at all your options to decide which of the many different pumps available work best for you. Some people like sturdy, larger models that offer power but need an outlet to work. Others prefer a convenient, portable battery powered pump. If you use a double pump, you might be able to cut down the amount of time required, but not everyone likes them. Children drink only one breast full of milk at a time, making some prefer a single pump. Experiment and do your research to find the one that'll work best for you, and remember to keep a spare on hand in case your breaks or is lost.

About the Author

Susan writes for FeedingBaby.net where you can find out more about breastpumps.

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