Experts say a breast-feeding mom who is only away from her baby on occasion probably will be fine with the cheapest of options, a manual breast pump. This type is the most labor-intensive to use and only pumps one side at a time, but it may be perfect for instances when a mom feels engorged or has to be out of the house for a little while. Manual pumps are small and light and have fewer parts to clean. They don't need to be plugged in because they run on hand power. Single electric pumps, also known as mini-electrics, are generally also recommended for occasional use only, but double electric pumps are preferred since they're so much more efficient.

Manual breast pumps are generally not practical for working moms or those pumping several times a day because they take longer to express milk and can be tiring to use. For those pumping more often, lactation experts usually recommend double electric pumps, which express both sides at once.

Moms who expect to pump for a short time, or who must exclusively pump because of problems breast-feeding or problems with a baby in the hospital, may want to consider renting a hospital-grade unit. Hospital-grade pumps can be rented from a variety of places on a weekly or monthly basis. They are highly efficient, but may run well above $1,000 to buy outright.

Reviewers offer the following tips about shopping for a breast pump:

  • Don't buy or borrow a used breast pump. Almost all consumer-grade breast pumps are designed to be single-user devices. Because the pump mechanism itself can't be sterilized, there is no way to guarantee that cross-contamination won't occur. Also note that breast pumps are not returnable to stores once opened. Hospital-grade pumps, which are designed to be used by more than one person, prevent cross-contamination.
  • Consider your individual needs. Cost aside, not all moms need an electric pump. Those who don't plan to be away from their babies may find a manual pump is perfect for occasional day trips and to relieve instances of engorgement. On the other hand, moms who plan on working full time will likely need the portability and efficiency of consumer-grade double electric breast pumps.
  • How work-friendly is it? A mom who plans to pump at work should make sure she likes her breast pump because she'll be spending a lot of time with it. Frequent pumpers need to consider how easy their pumps are to set up and clean and how light and portable they are. Many consumer-grade double electric pumps come with carrying cases and cooling compartments for expressed milk. Some pumps also come with battery packs, and moms can get car adapters for pumping in the car. Also, consider the noise level of the pump when it's on. A loud pump may be a deal-killer for a mom who plans to pump in a bathroom or office within earshot of co-workers.
  • Shop around online. We found that prices for certain models can vary by as much as $60. It pays to check a number of online retailers to get the most bang for your buck. And the prices of certain pumps may go down if you choose a different carrying case or -- as with the Ameda Purely Yours -- if you skip the carrying case and accompanying accessories altogether. Buying a pump alone is an option for a mom who plans to pump at home or already has a bag she can use to transport her pump to work.
  • Go for adjustable suction features. Comfortable suction levels vary from woman to woman, so it's best to buy a breast pump with an adjustable suction level. It's also important to use the correct size of breast shield. Make sure the pump you're interested in comes with breast shields that fit, or find out if you can purchase them separately.
  • Check the warranty. If you're investing in a pricey double electric pump, it makes sense to make sure your brand offers a one-year warranty. Electric pumps are often used several times a day for months on end, and that kind of wear and tear can lead to problems. Even among the top pump makers, like Medela and Ameda, we found user reports of broken motors.
  • Check with your health insurance. Experts say some insurance plans will cover the cost of a pump. In some cases, you may need to provide proof that your pump is medically necessary. According to the Food and Drug Administration, some state health departments and Women, Infants and Children programs may also be able to help.
  • If it hurts, something is wrong. We found a few user complaints about breast pumps that caused pain and even bleeding. When that happens, experts say, there may be something wrong with the pump's cycling time or with the size of the breast shields. A breast pump shouldn't hurt, and if it does you should stop using it.

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