Many working mothers who choose to breastfeed their baby rely on breast pumps because it makes breastfeeding really convenient. Choosing the right breast pump is then essential, but it has to be suited to a woman’s varying needs. With so many types of breast pumps commercially available, a woman needs to examine her lifestyle so she can choose the right breast pump.

If you intend to stay with your baby most of the time, you may only need a simple hand pump to express milk. You simply have to squeeze the handle to manually expel milk. An electric pump may be necessary if you need to go back to work, or if there will be instances that you need to be away from your baby for a couple of hours. While electric pumps may be more expensive, it also does a better job in stimulating your breasts, which promotes adequate milk supply. However, prepare for power outages or in the event that an outlet is not accessible. Rechargeable battery packs may be essential, or even a manual pump may be a good back-up option.

The amount of time you need to spend on expressing milk should also be a determining factor in choosing the right breast pump. It will approximately take 10 to 15 minutes to express milk per breast. If you feel that you don’t have that luxury of time, you may want to invest on double breast pumps. It can express milk simultaneously from both breasts, thus cutting time spent on pumping in half. This is really convenient for working mothers who can’t spend so much time pumping while in the office. Taking into consideration the noise that a pump makes, may also be necessary if you need to do it discreetly.

With many working moms nowadays, it is such relief to have pumps that can suit your needs. If you need to travel a lot, or if you need to take the pump to the office everyday, choose a lightweight model. Some pumps have carrying cases that are convenient for women on the go. It may even have an insulated area for milk storage.

Choosing the right breast pump is important because it may affect your resolve to continue breastfeeding. A particular breast pump may be comfortable and convenient for a woman, while it may not be the case for others. Choose a pump that is easy to clean and assemble. The parts that come in contact with your skin need to be detachable to make cleaning easy. It may also be advisable that you choose a pump with an adjustable suction. Even some manual models make this possible by simply adjusting the position of the pump handle.

It is also equally important to pay attention to the proper size of the breast shields, which come with every pump. Be certain that it is comfortable because it may lead to sore nipples. Before purchasing, inquire whether it is possible to replace the breast shield with a different size or texture.

It is also vital to know that only FDA cleared, hospital breast pumps can be used by more than one person. It is never wise to buy a used pump, especially if it will pose health risks to you, and your baby. Breast pumps that have not been disinfected well may carry infectious diseases such as HIV, or hepatitis. Thus, purchasing used pumps or borrowing used ones is not recommended.

Before you head out to the store, it may be best to write down all the features you expect your ideal pump to have. Ask for assistance and if possible, take out the pump from the box so you can examine it closely. Most stores will not allow returns on used breast pumps for health reasons, and it is important choose the one that’s good for you

The cost of breast pumps may vary depending on its features. Check your options whether your health insurance will cover the cost. If not, it is still a good investment in terms of ensuring that your baby will get all the nutrients that he needs, even if you are away.