What is a Breast Pump?

Breast pumps are medical devices frequently used by breastfeeding women to extract their breast milk.

Why should I use a Breast Pump?

• To save and store milk for use as convenient.
• To maintain or increase your baby's milk supply.
• To relieve plugged milk ducts or the pain of engorged breasts.
• To pull out flat or inverted nipples so a nursing baby can latch-on more easily.

What types of Breast Pumps are available?

• Manual Breast Pumps
• Battery Powered Breast Pumps
• Electric Powered Breast Pumps

How do Manual Breast Pumps work?

Manual breast pumps use a system of two cylinders to create suction. Once the breast-shield is placed over the nipple, a small cylinder-shaped tube is pumped in and out of a larger cylinder to create a vacuum that expresses milk and collects it in an attached container.

Manual pumps have a handle or lever that is squeezed to create suction and express milk from the breast. Another type of manual pump is a bicycle horn pump which consists of a hollow rubber ball attached to a breast-shield.

How do Battery Powered and Electric Breast Pumps work?

Powered breast pump uses batteries, or a cord plugged into an electrical outlet to power a small motor that creates suction to express milk from the breasts. One or more long plastic tubes connect the breast-shield to the motor. The motor has a control panel with a dial or switch to control suction. The extracted milk can be store in the containers.

How often should I use my Breast Pump?

The answer depends on how long each day you will be spending with your child.

If you are a stay at home mother or will be away from your baby for only short periods of time then a simple hand pump may be all you need. These pumps are small and inexpensive. You simply squeeze the handle to express the milk. This is the best solution for a mother who plans on direct breastfeeding for the majority of feeding times.

If you are a working mother and will be away from your baby for more than a few hours a day, you may want to invest in an electric pump. Electric pumps stimulate the breasts more effectively than do hand pumps. They allow for milk storage so that your spouse or care giver can help with feeding.

Are Breast Pumps easy to assemble?

Brest pumps come with easy to assemble parts. You can remove any parts of the pump that come in contact with your skin or milk for cleaning after use.

Each system is a little different. You can either consult the manual that came with your pump or call us and we will be happy to walk you through assembly, disassembly and cleaning.

Are Breast Pumps heavy?

While breast pumps are trending towards "smaller" and "lighter", weight varies by model.

If you are carrying your pump to work every day or traveling with the pump, look for a lightweight model. Some breast pumps come in a carrying case and can be worn like a purse.

Are Breast Pumps noisy?

Electric models are quieter than manual pumps. While buying, make sure the pump's noise level is acceptable.

Should I rent or purchase a pump?

Renting a pump is a good option for mom's who only anticipate pumping for a short period of time. Renting a pump can help increase and maintain milk supply on a temporary basis.  If you spend significant time away from your baby, or would like the option to do so, purchasing is probably a better idea. 

If you rent or borrow a breast pump from a friend, be sure it is closed system, hospital grade. Any other kind of pump can cause bacterial growth, infection and potential health issues.

All breast pumps sold on breastpump.com are brand new.

Is it healthy to pump as quickly as possible?

You should pump as quickly or slowly as feels comfortable to you. A typical pumping session lasts about 10 to 15 minutes per breast. Many electric Breast Pumps offer a dual setting which allows both breasts to be pumped at once. This cuts the pumping time in half.

Is the suction on breast pumps adjustable?

Nearly all electric breast pumps offer adjustable levels of suction. Manual models will typically provide a degree of suction related to the speed of your pumping.

How do I know that my breast shields the correct size?

Most models of breast pumps come with multiple sizes. If the sizes included are not fitting you correctly, most breast pump manufactures sell larger and smaller adjustors. Contact us and we can help you get the right fit.

What if my breast pump is uncomfortable?

There can be an adjustment period for newly nursing mothers and for mother's using a breast pump for the first time. Here are a few tips:

• Experiment with different sized breast shields.
• Experiment with different suction settings.
• Alternate between breastfeeding directly and using a breast pump.
• Purchase a manual pump and use it with comfort before switching to an electric breast pump.

Does breastfeeding hurt?

Breastfeeding should not be painful. That being said, it can be uncomfortable if you and your baby are still adjusting.

The most common cause of pain in breastfeeding is the an improper latching on of the baby to your breast. If you experience pain, gentle remove your baby and reattempt latching.

Can I breastfeed without exposing myself?

Absolutely! Special clothing is available expressly for discreet nursing.

Can I breastfeed if I'm not large breasted?

Yes! Milk production does not depend on size of the breast. Changes in the breast during early pregnancy make it possible for the breasts to make milk.

Will I have to give up eating certain foods during breastfeeding?

Be sure to maintain a well-balanced diet with your prenatal vitamins while breastfeeding.

Some mothers "pump and dump", meaning they pump after having eaten a good meal, indulge in a craving and then pump the resulting milk and dump it instead of feeding it to their baby. Speak with your lactation consultant before attempting this proceedure.

How long does it take to breastfeed?

For a new born baby, feedings usually take 15-20 minutes per side and most mothers offer both sides at each feeding. As the baby becomes more efficient, feeding may only take 10-15 minutes!

Why is breastfeeding is important?

Breast milk gives the baby all the immunities he needs until he can make his own.

Will I be able to produce enough milk?

The human breast is designed to refill the milk that is used. Allowing the baby to nurse until he stops will assure that you will make enough milk.

How long can I store my breast milk?

For healthy full-term infants:

• You can store it at room temperature for 4 to 8 hours (at no warmer than 77° Fahrenheit, or 25° Celsius)
• You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days at 32°–39° Fahrenheit (0°–3.9° Celsius)

How are you able to offer products at such low prices?

We buy in bulk, maintain a low overhead and pass the savings onto you.

Where will you ship?

We will ship to any United States address. Our appologies, but we can not ship to Canada or to international addresses.

What should I do if I receive a damaged breast pump?

If an item in your order was damaged during shipping, please call our customer service line and have your order information readily available.

Any item with a manufacturers defect will be returned to the manufacturer.