Most moms who choose to breastfeed will utilize a breast pump at some point in their journey. Some moms may only need to pump every once in a while, and many moms rely on their pump multiple times per day, every day. Regardless of how often you pump, a breast pump can be a big investment and you want to make sure you choose the right pump to fit your needs. From manual options to high suction hospital grade, there’s a breast pump for every situation. Here’s a quick guide to the main types of breast pumps available and how they work:

1. Manual Breast Pumps

Manual breast pumps do not require power, and they are usually single sided, smaller pumps. This makes them ideal for travel or if you don't need to pump very often and prefer to save money for other expenses.

Milk Collectors

Some milk collectors fall into the category of manual breast pump because they use continuous, gentle suction to collect extra milk from the opposite breast while feeding. They are designed to be worn in your bra, and a single press or squeeze creates negative suction that removes milk. There are lots of different features depending on the type or brand of milk collector you're using, so I put together a Milk Collector Comparison post that you can read here!

Hand Pumps

Hand pumps actively remove milk through suction more similar to a baby, but they require you squeezing the handle in a rhythmic pattern to remove milk. They're also useful for expressing a small amount of milk prior to or between feedings when struggling with engorgement, oversupply or an overactive letdown. While hand pumps are convenient and quiet, they can be cumbersome to use if you pump frequently, especially since you would have to pump one side at a time.

2. Electric Breast Pumps

Electric breast pumps use a motor to generate suction and usually have adjustable settings for suctionfrequency and intensity. Most electric breast pumps are double pumps, meaning you can pump both breasts at the same time, and most double electric breast pumps can be used as a single pump if desired. There are also some single electric breast pumps available that are smaller and easier to transport.

Electric breast pumps are ideal for moms who pump on any type of regular basis. They allow for faster pumping than a manual pump and are more efficient for removing milk. While they can get pretty pricey, there are tons of electric breast pump options, many of which are covered by insurance.

Many double electric breast pumps are plug-in pumps that require electricity to function, meaning you have to sit down in one spot to pump. There are also hands-free and wearable pumps available that allow you to be mobile while pumping, which can be especially helpful for busy moms. Some moms love them for their convenience, but others find them uncomfortable or find that they don't respond well to wearable or hands-free options thus producing less milk. This is a totally personal decision and depends on your body, your preferences, and your budget! 

Hands-Free Breast Pumps

Hands-free breast pumps have a motor that runs on a battery, so you don't have to be stuck near an outlet while pumping. They have an external motor that the pump attaches to, and you either wear the cups in your bra or you can secure the flanges with a pumping bra to make it hands-free.

Wearable Breast Pumps

Wearable breast pumps fit directly into a bra and allow for discreet pumping on the go. They are battery-operated and hands-free as well, but the motor is built into of the cups themselves rather than being a separate unit. While these pumps tend to be more expensive, their convenience and portability are invaluable for multitasking parents.

If you're looking for a high-quality wearable pump, one my favorites is the M9 from Momcozy! You can save 10% on any of their pumps with code Babyfd10F at checkout either directly on their website or on Amazon!