How to Buy or Rent a Breast Pump

If you're a nursing mom, you have milk on demand for your baby. But what happens when you are in demand somewhere else? For a backup milk supply, you need a breast pump. All pumps, whether manual or mechanical, use suction to pull milk into a container for later feedings. The basic difference between models is how quickly, comfortably and conveniently they work--and at what price.

Instructions

1

Consider how often you will be using the pump. Will you be expressing milk only occasionally, or do you want to give your baby a bottle regularly or continue to provide breast milk while you go back to work? If you will only be pumping occasionally, consider an inexpensive ($30) manual pump. Manual pumps are compact but can be slow--and sometimes painful--to use. Many models require both hands, tying you up completely. Still, for occasional at-home use, these do the trick.

2

Rent top-of-the-line equipment at a low cost. Fees average $10 to $15 a week. Keep in mind that a security deposit is required. You'll also need to buy a personal accessory kit for about $50. If something goes wrong with a rental, you can get another. Rental machines can be bulky, making them a poor choice if you're short on space or on the move.

3

Consider buying your own pump if you'll be using it for a long time or plan to have more children. You get what you pay for in terms of motor quality. Some machines let you pump both breasts at once so you're done in half the time. Pumps run from $40 for a simple battery-powered model to $300 for a powerful double-pumper like the Medela Pump In Style. (The Bailey Nurture III has all the same power but for only $125.)

4

Look for a model that suits your needs, like a pump that packs neatly into its own carry case and comes with an ice pack to get your "white gold" home safely. Choose a double-pumper if you will be using it at work; you'll be done in half the time. If you're in the car a lot, look for a pump with a car-lighter adapter.

5

Pull the pump out and get comfortable with its parts and operation a few weeks after the baby's born. Choose a time when you're not overwhelmed, or have a friend give you a hand.