A Good Breast Pump ?

Hi! I have the medela in style and it is worth every penny! My friends have other pumps which have had problems and don't work half as well as mine. I have never had any problems and it really helped me in the beginning with milk stimulation. I love it.

I rented a breast pump from the hospital for the first few weeks until I knew I was going to be breastfeeding for a long time and needed to buy my own pump. It wasn't that expensive to rent. I ended up buying the Medela Pump in Style. I love it and I am now using it for my second child and it still works perfectly! Worth the monty!

I rented my pump from the Pumpstation in Santa Monica. It's was a professional strength pump and cost me about $150 or more for about 6 months.

J.,

I bought the Lansinoh double pump when I had my first baby in May 2007. My sister gave birth 3 days after me, she bought a new Medela Pump In Style. I chiose the Lansinoh because, at the time, it the least expensive one on the Target website. I, like you, did not like the idea of spending a lot on a breast pump. I also bought the Medela accessories later and borrowed my sister's Medela. At first, I thought the pump in style was so great compared to my Lansinoh. But, after a period of time, I went back to the Lansinoh and found that it really wasn't that bad.

The most important thing is to have a strong enough pump to pull the milk down easily. The whole process is uncomfortable, it looks and feels awkward. But I found getting used to it helped to make the process easier and faster – it’s all about practice.

There are two things I think are important to consider. First, the breast pump is an investment. Feeding primarily breast milk for as long as you can saves money on formula - a lot of money. So weigh that cost as well when considering your purchase. Second, I felt like Medela was this elite brand that everyone felt they HAD to have. Anything else was second class. But my pump worked fine for me. Sure, I wish I had the fancy bag to carry it to and from work. But I found that the biggest thing for me was forcing myself to take the time during the day to sit and relax and pump. And whether I had a fancy pump or my Lansinoh, that was my biggest challenge. Once I closed myself off, relaxed and pumped, it did not matter which one I was using.

Hope that helps and good luck breast feeding. Joining groups helps to find support in feeding, pumping and whatever else comes along!

Good luck,
T. (mom to Olivia, 9 months)

Hello,
The Medela Pump In Style is a great pump. You don't need the advanced, it just has like an extra bag and some other accessories, the regular one is fine. Unfortunately you kind of get what you pay for. Not sure where you are, but at my hospital, Pomona Valley, they sell it for $200.00 out the door tax included. That is about $100.00 cheaper than Babies R Us. If you are local contact Terry at the hospital and she will get you one, if not check with your hospital, they may sell them cheaper. Good luck!

Hello J. ...

I'd love to help you. I've been a lactation specialist for the past 26 years and I know how important it is to have a really good breast pump. Medela, without a doubt, is a very well-known, reputable company and they've been in the pumping industry for many years. They've got their act together! Here's a couple of suggestions:

1. Dial 1-800-TellYou and punch in your zip code. Automated imformation will be provided regarding shops that are closest to your front door. Call them up and see what they might have on sale. This is a "Medela" resource.

2. Go to discount websites like Amazon, Overstock, Shopzilla, etc. The expectant moms in my classes are getting super deals on pumps ... as much as 40 -50% off!

3. There may be someone in your family, a co-worker, or a friend who has the pump already and would be willing to let you borrow it. Then all you'd need to do is purchase the attachments. Least expensive way to go!

Hope this helps,
M. K.

Wow, your "about me" sounds like me! I am 23, 4 year old daughter, 6 months pregnant, and BF for 2 weeks with her and determined to breastfeed this time around! :)

With her I had like 3 or 4 different pumps, all the cheaper models, and they all sucked, or more accurately did NOT suck! It has been 4 years so I forgot most of the brands, but I did have a Medela single electric one and even that one was terrible.

One of my friends sold me her barely used year old Pump In Style for only $65! All I need to do is buy new tubing and valves (about $20). They say they are single use pumps, but I know and trust her, and honestly not often will the milk back up into the pump anyways. Even so you can sterilize most parts and take the face plate off and clean it all out.

Most places also let you rent pumps and maybe after a month or two if you still feel like you need to buy a pump maybe you will be able to afford one then.

If you have any friends that may have a pump you can buy off them try that, or try ebay or craigslist for a used PIS.

I can't say how well this one works because I am obviously pregnant and can't try it out yet, but every single person I know has recommended it.

Good luck!

(oh and also in response to the breastshields for the PIS, they do sell soft ones made of soft, flexible silicone for about $10 for the two, and Medela also has various sizes of breastshields to use as well, as many women do need a larger one than the one that comes standard.)

J.,
I have the Medela Pump in Style Advanced Breast Pump and it is the best investment ever! I know it's expensive but if you are committed to breast feeding then I think it's worth it. I had a difficult time with breast feeding in the beginning (and sometimes still do) and this pump has saved my life. It has helped me increase my milk supply (I pump every morning after my son's first feeding), helped me through a painful breast infection, and has allowed me to have a little alone time when my husband gives our son a bottle. I would consider buying a used pump (I got mine from my sister who used it with 3 babies). Just clean it really well. Really, I think you'll be happy you did... good luck to you.

Hi J.,
Congrats on wanting to nurse your baby. I would check with some of the great Lactation Consultants we have in town. Tami Schlosessing (Iknow I am buchering her last name!) is fabulous. She should be able to give you some good advice.

I've used both electric and manual, it seems like electric would be faster and easier, but I didn't find it to be. The hand pumps are far more affordable and I thought it was faster and easier, of course I like to feel in control and it let me go at my own speed. Most importantly it was more comfortable, the electric pulled on my breast and it hurt a little.
that was my experience, hope it helps with your choice,
Aloha, F.

you really should consider investing in a good pump. have you calculated how much formula costs? you'll be saving much more money by getting the pump in style and buying less formula. plus, it's healthier for you and the baby, diapers aren't as stinky for dad, less hassle making bottles, and it's "green" (if you're into saving the environment).

you can easily google the risks of formula feeding to get more information as well as any other topic you have questions about on breastfeeding.

breastfeedingmadesimple.com is an easy to understand website too.

good luck!

p.s. i used the medela pump and loved it!!

I have the regular Medela Pump in Style and I wouldn't do it any other way. If you buy a cheap pump pumping will be hard to do. I bought a used pump on eBay (I found one that had only been used 2-3 months) and then bought all new tubing/bottles/pieces/etc. That made it affordable for me. Hope that helps! :)

Hi, My name is L. and I am an RN, Certified Lactation Consultant. I would say the Medela Pump in Style really is the one you want. The others just don't do the job. You can find used pumps on Craigs list for $80-100. Target also has them at a price of around $200. and they ship as well. If you consider the cost of "formula" (really just cows milk made in a large factory by large corporations for profit) it is worth the price. You also will save on medical bills as Breastfed babies are healthier due to the immunities that you pass to your baby via your milk. Additionally breastfed babies have fewer allergies, less at risk for obesity and at lower risk for developing diabetes later in life. If you are eligable for WIC they may have a pump you can borrow. You might check out your local chapter of La Leche League for possible used pumps and advice. By the way you will also decrease your risk of developing breast cancer by breastfeeding your baby. Good Luck, and call a lactation consultant in your area if you need help with breastfeeding your new baby when it is born.

The Medela Pump in Style!!!!!!!

Try looking on eBay for a used one and just buy a new hose kit from Medela. The hoses run about $25 and you can find the pumps for around $100.

It is worth EVERY penny!!!

Get involved with La Leche League! Go to meetings now! Breastfeeding is SOO much easier! You'll love it! The first 6 weeks is the toughest. You can call the Kona Coast La Leche League if you need help. The number is: ###-###-####

I got the Medela pump from a medical supply website for almost $100 less than at a retail store. I don't know if that makes it affordable enough, but the site I purchased from was... www.hackleyhme.com

Check on craigslist and ebay for a high quality used one! Worked for me! Plus she threw in all the extra accessories for free!

good luck

I don't know where you live, but you can get a free quality dual breast pump if you donate milk to a milk bank for premies. It's very flexible and you can donate as much or as little as you'd like. The one I went through is the south coast milk bank in Irvine bit I'm sure there are others. It's very easy, go to southcoastmilkbank.com for more info.

Just at thought. You can look on craigslist or ebay for a used Medela pump. They work just as good and you can get your own pump parts if that makes you feel better. I got a used Medela pump for $70. Hope that helps!

I have the Playtex Embrace and I love it. I have seen them on Amazon for $170-190 so it would be a little cheaper than the medela pumps. I haven't had any trouble with mine. It has been used for 2 full years and I just started using it again with my new baby. I haven't had any trouble with the motor or any of the parts wearing out. I pump 3x a day, 5 days a week. The cups are soft plastic and I thought the system itself looked less scary/intimidating than the medela set up.
I went back and forth on which pump to buy in the beginning, seems like people either loved it or hated it but I found that was true for the reviews I read on the medela pumps too. I had tried a medela hand pump and it didn't seem to work well with my breast shape/size so that helped me with my decision also.

J., Definetly get a Medela. They by far make the best breast pumps on the market. I used the Medela Swing and loved it, although it is only a single pump. My advice is to rent one for the hospital you are delivering at, until you get the bottle/breast thing figured out. After the baby is about 4 months old your breastmilk knows when to come in (every 2/4/6 hours) you won't really need the pump a whole lot after that. Rent a double and buy a single for when you return the double, then you will still have one for occasional pumping. Good luck.

I have the PIS but I didn't always have it. The PIS has truly made the difference. I had to go back to work unexpectedly when my son was 3 months old so I had to rely on my pump more and more. Having a good pump renews your excitement in breastfeeding. This is my 1st child but I was determined to bf. It took us a week to get off to a good start, but now he nurses like a champ!

I had a single pump before but now the dual pump gets more milk out in shorter time.

hopefully that helps :)....

Hello J.
I bought the "Ameda Purely Yours" dual breast pump on ebay. You can get a new one for about $180 or a used one for around $120. I was very happy with it. I used it for about 2 years so far (for 2 of my 3 kids) and i will use it again when number 4 is born in July. In between i lend it out to a friend (if you borrow or buy a used one, make sure you buy your own hygienikit). I never had any troubles with it and i would recommend it to everybody who asks me for a good breast pump.
I hope you find what you need.
M.

Though the Medela Pump in Style is an expensive pump($250-300), it is the best one you can buy. I say "splurge" on this item, as I bought two cheaper pumps before buying this one, so I ended up spending way more than I needed to. Then, at least you will have it in the future is you have a second child.

I have a 6 month old daughter and am nursing her. I got the Bailey Nurture III dual breast pump for around $160.00. I don't know how much the Madela is selling for or how much you are able to spend, but if you want to check it out here is the web address......http://www.baileymed.com
It is a good pump and comes with 6 bottles and a case that holds everything along with a cold keeper. However, I did find that I really prefer to only pump one breast at a time, so perhaps a single pump model may be more do-able for you.
Make sure you introduce your baby to the bottle early (at about 3 months) so that he/she does not totally reject it! Good luck to you.

J.,

Check out an Ameda Purely Yours pump. It is a great pump. Ameda tends to be cheaper than Medela because they don't do nearly the same amount of advertising! A Purely Yours is equal in quality and very similar to a Medela Pump In Style (the regular one). And shop around on the internet. I got a PISA from this person http://stores.ebay.com/Elite-Breastfeeding-Supplies_MEDEL... You have to contact her directly for pump info and prices. But I paid about $250 for it and that was easily $100 less than I would have paid at Babies R Us. I believe you can get a Purely Yours for about $150 if you shop around (this lady would be one place to check).

I would also recommend you check out this yahoo group

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/PumpMoms/

Pumping is an art and a science and I would never have made it without the help and support I got from that group.

Good luck!

T.

The Purely Yours pump by Ameda is a very good quality double electric pump at half the price of the Pump in Style.

Good luck! Your baby is very lucky to have a mom who is dedicated to breastfeeding. It's the best thing you can do to give your baby the best start!

I have known several people who have rented fantastic breast pumps from the hospital. They are the hands free type, work faster than the store brands, and the cost to rent it was fairly inexpensive. You may want to see if your hospital offers this service.

I say spend the money...it's cheaper than if you formula fed! Consider that your savings...and, it's a great pump. I used it for my son while I worked and kept up the breastfeeding for his first year.

A thought is that you can always rent one from your hospital. It might be worth it if you are only breast feeding for a certain period of time (you have to do the math here). If you go longer months than what it would cost you to buy one, then it's obviously not worth it. But perhaps you do what you have to do...which could be rent one and in the mean time save money to buy one. I have the Medela, which I loved, so I would say it's worth the money and I have no idea what other good ones are out there. But I wish you luck in your quest to find one. Best wishes!

check craigslist
do u get wic now? they will give you a pump to use

Hi J.,

I have four children and I nursed them all until they were at least 11 months old...my younger ones until they were even older. With my first two, I thought that I just could never use a breastpump...(I tried a handheld one and I couldn't get it to work, so I figured it just didn't work for me.) But with my third, I was freaking out. I wanted to nurse but needed to leave him when he was just 3 weeks old! I went to a placed that sold them, and it worked perfectly. And it worked for me with my fourth and I loaned it to other family and friends and it worked for them too! Last I heard, it was still working, 6 babies (or more) later! If you are going to nurse, I say it is the only way to go. When I bought mine over 11 years ago, it was about $200. I am not sure what they cost now, but I would imagine that buying one out right would be way cheaper than needing to buy formula! I believe that it is the only way to go if you plan to nurse for at least 6 months. If you are not so sure that you want to nurse that long, I would suggest that you look in to renting them...I don't know if you can still rent them or not, but you use to be able to a long time ago.

Best of luck with nursing, I think you will find it very rewarding and enjoyable. It is a time when you and your baby can be together and feel so close. But don't be too hard on yourself if it is too difficult...the most important thing is that you when your baby is being fed is for you to always hold them and talk to them. You are so lucky to be having a baby, they are so wonderful....can you tell I miss that part of my life? Now I will just wait for the grandbabies.:)

Congratulations! Are you doing a baby registry? If so, put it on your registry. Or if friends and family are asking what you need/want for the baby...this is a great answer. You can tell them that you know it is expensive, but maybe they want to team up to buy it, or confide in a close friend or relative and have them do the groundwork for you. People really want to give gifts that the new family really needs. I waited to buy mine until after the baby was born, wished I'd put it on my registry.

Here's to a happy and healthy pregnancy and birth!

I was fortunate to borrow from friends the Medela dual for both my kids. It is great pump. Ask around or check e-bay!

Good luck!

Hi,
I have successfully breastfed two children and I went through three breast pumps in the process. The best is definetly the Medela. I tried a dual model one and it really isn't that great. I recomend the single pump Medula. It really is much easier to do one breast at a time and it doesn't take that long, especially once your milk supply is established. The single one is less costly and might be in your price range. You might want to try ebay. That is where I got mine and it was brand new. I think I payed between $40 and $50 and that included shipping. But that was three years ago.
Having breastfed two children, I realize how different there eating styles can be. Personally, I think the best helps are not to allow the hospital to give your baby ANY bottles so that he/she has to breastfeed to eat, don't give up, surround yourself with other encouraging mothers and nursers and pray. God has made your body to provide nutrition for your little one and He will sustain you through the process. It is one of the most natural and rewarding experiences in this life. Good Luck. You'll do well.

Medela Pump 'n Styles are out there at a reasonable price if you're willing to buy/borrow a USED pump. You can buy new kits (pump cups, tubing, bottles, etc.), so it's sanitary, but borrow/buy a USED pump. E-bay, Craig's List, consignment shops should have them. Good luck.

Hi J. L.,

Check with your health insurance company. Sometimes you can get one if your doctor orders it and it is billed through your insurance company. If that doesn't work, there are dual hospital grade medela pumps you can rent. Get the number from the hospitals lactation specialist. You can also call the Lactation Connection or visit their web site at http://www.lactationconnection.com. They can refer you to rental stations or check this site...it has rentals too.
http://www.blessedbeginnings.net/index.html

Hope this helps! Congratulations on your upcoming arrival!

D. C.

Did you know you can rent breast pumps from medical supply stores? I rented a hospital grade pump when our son was born and it worked great.

Check out the Avent Isis pump. Even though it is handheld, you sqeeze it like a trigger so you only have to use one hand. I can pump and surf the internet at the same time. I have tried other handheld pumps and even electric pumps (ouch!), but the Avent Isis is the best. It is very comfortable and it even has a letdown massage cushion so you letdown very quickly and pump just as fast (or faster) than an electric pump. You can also pick it up for less than $50. Avent also makes electric pumps, but of course they cost a lot more. Good luck!

Hi J. - Contact your hospital or the mother's shop at your hospital to see if they can put you in contact with a mothers' group. Often you can buy a used pump for half price or less (buy the pump "kit" new). A resale shop for kids and maternity may be a good place to check out also... or Craigslist?

Go to eBay. That's what I did, and I saved over $100 off the price. You purchase from a dealer, and make sure they have excellent ratings. These will either be new pumps or refurbished pumps with new parts (i.e. the parts that will touch you). Mine was new. The other thing is, you might want to consider a manual pump if you are only pumping a bit (like once a day or so). They work just as well, if not even a little better (my friend who pumped with a manual got just as milk as I did using my Pump in Style), and they obviously aren't noisy like the motorized kind. Downside: you have to use your hands, and you can only do one side at a time. But if you are going to be working and need to pump at work, then definitely get the electric.

I'm not sure what you have to do but i heard that if you qualify for wic you can rent the pump you just need to buy the parts that go on ur breast so if you qualify u might want to look into that.

hi -

i've been using the medela swing and it works great for the price! this is a single pump tho. you can get it at target for about $150 or so. i pump anywhere from once a day - 4/day, and nurse directly as often as i can throughout the day. you can also try calling the st. rose women's care center and i believe you can rent those pumps

good luck

Hi J.: It is me again. This is a correction to my previous response. The name of the breast pump is Advent. They are a company located in Europe that sell their products to the usa. They also make good baby bottles. It was the only hand breast pump that would work without hurting me.

rent the machine if you buy it, like you said you may not use it as much if you do then but it

When I was pregnant with twins a co-worker gave me her Medela pump in style '98. Yes, 1998 version! It still works to this day! I have a ton of experience with pumping. My pump in style was a life saver; it was phenomenal and is so durable! And mine has adjustable suction, so I dont know what the other posters are talking about. Anyway I used it 10+ times a day on both breasts for a straight 2 months while my twins were in the NICU. (I didn’t even get to try to breastfeed my boys until they were 37 weeks gestation; they were born at 28 weeks, so this pump was solely responsible for establishing & maintaining my milk supply). Then I used it about 6 times a day after they came home for an entire year. I then passed it on to my sister who used it periodically and now I’m using it periodically with my 9 mo. old. Keep in mind it was used for two children by a mom who went back to work before I got it. And it works like a champ still. So if you want a quality pump, Medela is it.

I know you can rent one, and that is what I would recommend, just to make sure it works for you and if you don’t end up breastfeeding you are not stuck with one. But I’m also here to say you can buy one used. Like everyone else has said you just buy the tubing new. Sterilize everything else, or buy all new parts. But I have never overflowed milk into the pump, I think that would be quite difficult to do if not impossible. And trust me, I have pumped ALOT!! But I still would sterilize and buy new tubing just to be safe, my NICU said that was fine. Being that my boys were in the NICU and I had a c-section (twice) I have had the opportunity to use many different pumps, the NICU had a pumping room with several different pumps to choose from and they brought me a pump to my room with both of my births. I tried the Ameda with my most recent birth, hated it--not enough suction for me. And the Medela Symphony with my twins, LOVED it!!!! But that one is $1200. So it is my experience that the Medela brand is truly the best. It might also be a good idea to ask for it as a shower gift, if you are having one. I had a special hands-free bra that held the breastshields for me, and a car adapter that allowed me to pump while driving! That was also a lifesaver!!! Good luck, and I think it is great you are so determined to breastfeed this time around. I know what perseverance it takes to make it happen. It is so hard in the beginning, but once you get over the difficult period, it is so wonderful. I wish you well!

You can always rent a breast pump. The Pump Station in Hollywood or Santa Monica rents pumps and the lactation consultants there are amazing, which would help encourage you to continue breastfeeding when/if you have challenges!! Good luck. Breastfeeding is wonderful!

did you know you can rent pumps from hospitals they are the industrial strength pumps for less money. Some hospitals charge per month others for a longer period that way you can find out if your child will even take a bottle. Both my daughters nursed but they refused the bottle. So I had a pump and all these bottles that I never used. Good luck nursing it is the only part I miss about my children being small.

I went through 3 different breast pumps(Burned out motors),brfore I got the Medela pump in style.I bought it used for $100 and then bought new bottles , tubes and suction-things. Well worth it!!! In retro I wish I had bought it before my son was born, so I would have it to start off w/. The three pumps that died cost about $250 total. My family paid for part them. I breastfeed for 2 yrs, working full time. I pumped for the first year everyday during my breaks and at lunch. I won't lie... it was a pain, but well worth it. Once he was solid on food I only feed him at night. He stopped on his own. Go for as long as you can, even if it's only 2 weeks. It's better then nothing.I gave my pump to a co-worker who did it for less then a month. At first I was really bummed but then I realized I was in no place to judge and I did what I could to help.Buy the Medela if you intend to breastfeed for at last a couple of months. If you can find one used, go for it.If you need help or advice let me know.

The Medela is the best portable dual pump I know of. Try checking at children's resale shops or Craigs list, E-bay, friends, etc. Don't be freaked if it's second hand. The only part that comes in contact w/your breast milk is the breast shield which can be cleaned/sterilized. Any lactation shop can check the machine for vaccum/suction. I have two! One for home, one for work. One of mine is the original Pump In Style, is eight years old and still works great! I also have the Advanced back pack one...I can't tell the difference. My old one has been used by 5 moms!!! And here I am using it again because I now have a 2 month old. If you can't find one used...save for it. Well worth it...and overall better for babe and cheaper than a year of formula. Good luck!

I agree that the Medela is a great pump. It's the one I used with both my girls. You can buy them used for about half price. Check out Craig's List or eBay. All you'd have to do is purchase the tubing new. Also you can rent one for pretty cheap, too. There are lots of places that rent them.

Good luck!

I also did not want to buy that expensive pump. You can actually rent one from the hospital. All the attachments they give you are new and it is hospital grade so it pumps really fast and it is great. It saved money and worked really well. I have friends that had their own pump, then rented one from the hospital and liked the rented one much better. Good luck.

The madela is great, if you live near Ventura there is a place close to the CMH hospital that will rent the machine to you at an affordable price. Check it out, I don't remember the name of the place but I know that it is on the same street of the hospital. You can also ask the hospital and they should know where it's at. I pumped for a whole year with my son on the machine, he didn't like the breast, and it was great. 15 minutes/4 to 5 times a day and had extra milk for two weeks. Hope this helps, I truly recommend this machine!

Hey J.,
I have the Medela original, it's electric and double pump. I didn't buy it right away, because it was my first baby and I wasn't sure of my supply. I first rented the hospital one for a about two months and once I knew my supply was established I went ahead and bought my own. If you have Kaiser insurance, go to the wellness center located inside the Riverside Keiser Permanente. I got my pump there for about 150, the advance one was going for about 200. I know it's expensive, but cheaper than the retail stores.
Good luck and if you are going to work the purchase is well worth it.
ceci

I have 3 double electric's, 1 single electric, and 2 manual pumps. I have the medela's, the dr. brown's, the 1st years, and the avent.
hands down, by far, without question, the best of all of them, for either the single hand pump, or the double electric is the avent one. i went to babies r us to buy the medela one because dr's say its good, reviews make it sound so great - BUT - the girl at the register tried her hardest to talk me out of getting it and to get the avent. i wouldn't listen to her since dr's and reviews were all for it. $300 down the drain. i HATE it. its noisy and the cups are HARD plastic, and you have to hold each bottle in a hand (taking up TWO hands) and then somehow be pressing buttons while you are pumping?!
the 1st years is good, cheap, stops working as well as it did at first (after 2 months) - BUT it was super cheap at target (like $60) and it has a single handle to hold both bottles up to your chest. again, it just doesn't last long, no matter how much you take care of it.
my baby is 4 months old, she is exclusively on breat milk, but she does not nurse well at all. i nurse her maybe 1-2 times a day, and the rest of the time i pump and give her bottles. i have been through each pump many times, and in the end, i finally went back to babies r us and bought the stupid $300 avent system, and i have never looked back at any of the others i have. the avent has soft, super soft, cups, a manual like handle to get the style/rythm going, and then a simple button ON the handle to have the automatic take over repeating the last pump you did (therefore memorizing your preference and comfort). i can't tell you how much it is worth the money - maybe try to find it without all the travel accessories/backpack junk.
good luck.

Hi J.,

Ditto on the Ameda. It's more reasonably priced than Medela, and from what I've read, easier to clean. I've had mine for 3 years now and am using it with my second baby.

You can always just buy the pump you want and then sell it when you're done - but you may find that you get more than your money's worth, esp if you have another baby.

Good luck and happy shopping!

Depending on how long you plan to breastfeed, you may want to consider renting a pump. You can usually rent them through a pharmacy associated with a hospital for a daily charge plus you buy your own attachments. The rental pumps are supposed to be much better than the Pump In Style. I have a Pump in Style which worked for me just in case you decide to buy one.

J.,

You are right about the Medela Pump in Style... it is great! But don't buy a used one - people think you can just buy new tubing (which you can) but my lactation consultant says that it is not 100% sterile to do so. Consumer pumps don't have the same type of filter as pumps you can rent...

But, if cost is an issue and you are unsure how long you will breastfeed, you could always rent a pump from the hospital ($50/mo). But if you decide to breastfeed longer, this isn't the most economical choice.

i agree with megan. its a good investment, especially if you plan on having another child.

I really liked the Ameda Purely Yours pump. It was very quiet (I felt like the Medela pumps kind of made a "moo" sound) and had controls to adjust the rate of strength of the suction. If you will be pumping at work, get the backpack, which comes with ice packs and a little 'refrigerator' for storing the milk. It's very handy.

I also really liked having a manual hand-held pump in addition to the electric one, for quick and quiet extraction (say, when the kid fell asleep mid-nursing and I still had more to go). I really liked the Avent Isis manual pump for that. It had really good suction.

Good luck!

I know what you mean about breast pumps being expensive. Check with the hospital you will be delivering at, they might rent out breast pumps. I know mine did. It was only $20 a month. And it was a big medical grade electric dual pump. You can also try sites like craigslist, or even ebay for a used pump. But you need to get new tubing for those.
Good luck, and congratulations!

Hi J., Medela does have good breast pumps and I always recommend them. I am a nurse and lactation consultant, you are welcome to call me or email me for more info. Look at my web site and you can see what I have and the prices I have. Also I purchased a case of Medela original pumps because they are being discountinued and I love them especially if it is your second baby. It may be just fine for you. Also they have come up with a new single pump called the Swing that has the advanced technology and is very good. Contact me and I'm happy to give you more info. Good Luck and Congrats on the new little one. C. at www.bestfedbreastfeedingcenter.com or my email is ____@____.com MOMS PLEASE BEWARE, AFTER READING SOME OF THE RESPONSES I NEED TO GIVE YOU CORRECT INFORMATION. DO NOT PURCHASE PUMPS ON EBAY, IT CAN BE A HEALTH RISK FOR YOU AND YOUR BABY. THERE ARE PEOPLE AROUND LIKE ME THAT TRY TO MAKE IT MORE AFFORDABLE FOR YOU SO YOU CAN USE A PUMP WITHOUT ANY RISK. Also ck with WIC if you qualify for the first few weeks. Go to Medella to read the health risks of a used pump. it is the pump not the tubings etc that is the risk.

You more than pay for the pump in the savings on formula usually after the first 1-2 months. C.

Don't even bother with a cheaper model. Go with the Medela Pump in Style - your breasts will thank you:) I went with a cheaper version at first because I was shocked by the price tag of the Medela but the pain I went through during pumping with the cheaper version was unbearable. I was in tears while pumping and then you get anxiety over the whole affair and then you miss the "let down" of the milk - it was a nightmare. Ask for your family & friends to pitch in and get one for you or look for a used one from a friend and order new parts (tubes, sheild, etc.)

Breast feeding is such an amazing, bonding time with your child! Good luck!
M. N.

Hi J.,

I am very experiencd in the bresat pump field, as I have been educated on them and have sold them for 12 years in a medical supply company. I have found that the Ameda Purely Yours Breast Pump by Hollister is far more superior than the Medela or any other brand. The pumps allows you to adjust the stregth and the cycle level to your comfort. I have personally used it myself last year when I had my son, who was born prematurely.The pump is costly, but well worth every penny!! The pump is offered with a backpack, which is wonderful! It has a place for the pump and a cold storage area for the expressed milk, as well as enough room for a few diapers and a blanket. If you compare it to the Medela, really there is no comparison. You should be able to go online to find it or call around to your local medical supply companies. What ever you do, just don't buy one second hand... you never know if the other person cleaned it properly or took care of the pump. Good luck and congratulations on your baby!

R. G.

I like my Ameda Purely Yours pump very much. It is comfortable and easy to wash. I have a klonky older version and I know that my friend bought one recently, the backpack style with hands free pumping. She loves hers esp. that it doesn't look like a pump when she is traveling from home to work, from work to daycare, and from daycare to home.
Another tip: get 2 Playtex One-Step Breast Milk Storage Kits because they have one adapter (from traditional bottle size to now wide mouth, breastfeeding support nipples) in each kit. To save from transferring from bottle to sleeves for freezing, I would stretch the sleeve over the wide playtex bottles, attach to adapter and to the pump directly. Then, I can close off the sleeves, using anything from clips to rubber bands, and freeze them the same day.

are you interested in buying a used one from me? It's ok if you don't want to. I just thought I would ask. If you do care to buy a used one, from me or anyone that is, I would suggest replacing a few parts (Ameda Valve Replacement Part (402326), Ameda Replacement Pump Body and Flange (621262), Ameda Silicone Diaphragm Replacement Part (402332)) and the pump is really as hygenic as new: http://www.amedaonline.com/

Good luck! I am so glad that you are interested in breastfeeding longer. I started out thinking I can only do 6 mos. Now my baby is 14 mos and he is happy being breastfed and I am glad to be able to pass on my immunity during this very bad flu season. If you need support and resources in breastfeeding go to: kellymom.com
Y.

My son was born 2 month early and had to stay at the hospital for the first month. During that time I used the Medela Synphony. I was able to rented the Synphony from the hospital. Seeing that the In Style is out of your price range you may want to see if you can rent one for a few months then buy a less expensive modle like the Medela Swing after your milk suply is well established. The Swing is a single pump but it works well.

If you can take a brestfeeding class and ask the instructor and other moms what there preferance is. Also shop around I found that the hospital had the best prices on pumps.

Ultimetly my sugestion is to spend the extra money on a good system insted of going with a less expensive modle and being disapointed.

Where do you live? I have a pump in style (used) that is still in good condition.
J. Molina

I got the Lansinoh double pump at Walmart for about $150. It's identical to the Ameda Purely Yours. I never had problems with losing suction or overflow and I had really heavy milk flow. Also if you need spare bottles, any average mouth bottle will fit, but not the extra wide ones. Anyway, I loved it and will use it with my next baby. It's not very loud. I had a coworker stand outside the room I used to pump at work and she didn't hear it.

You can rent one from most every hospital. I am not sure where you live but the WIC program also rents breast pumps. All of the parts that even touch you or your milk are purchased by you to keep. You just rent the pump monthly or weekly. That or try layaway at the store and do one large down payment and weekly moderate payments. I rented a Medela pump from the hospital that was also a dual. It was great. I still have milk in the freezer and my son hasn't nursed in months. Good luck!

You should find your local La Leche League chapter for support. They will have great information on pumps and nursing. Meetings are usually once per month and they are open to all nursing and pregnant moms.

Try looking for the Medela Pump in Style on Ebay. I bought a brand new pump from a lactation nurse selling on Ebay. It was a buy it now option -- no bidding etc. I paid much less than what it retails for in a store like Babies R Us. I bought the pump almost 4 years ago. It worked great!!! Good Luck I hope you find a good pump.

I use the Evenflo dual electric pump. It probably isn't the best, but it works and better yet it was only 50-60 dollars.

Hi, J.:
Maybe you can get folks to get you the Pump in Style for a shower gift. Even a late Shower gift, as if you really want to breast feed, it will be a few solid weeks before you'll want to pump. In the meantime, I really do suggest taking a breastfeeding class now AND a followup "clinic" a week after baby's born, because it is HARD... Everyone says it: it gets easier. And, it does. But, spend your money on the class and clinic (I went to Torrance Memorial's and loved it...) in order to truly get help with the difficult time (first 6 weeks), and trust that folks who know and love you can provide the pump....

Hi J.,

The only thing I can suggest to you is check out if there are any children's consignment stores in your area. They often have the Medela pumps on sale, and usually at a really good price. The store near me has it at $99, but during a sale it was $75. You also might consider checking into ebay or craigs list... Other than that, you don't want to get a much lower grade pump because they tend to be less efficient, and you'll suffer for that. I'm actually waiting for my hospital grade pump to arrive because my pump wasn't emptying me out in enough time.
Good luck!
K.

ask your local hospital about breatmild donation because such programs provide brest pumps for your much needed services.
blessings,
A.

Try e-bay..a cousin of mines did and found the medela one in good condition...all you have to do is buy your own breast sheild...

You might want to check and see if the hospital or birthing center has a rent program. I know they had a program like that when I was nursing. Also try ebay they have several for under $100.00. All you will need to buy is new tubes and bottles. Also check the baby resale shops. They will usually work with you.