Choosing a breast pump: which is better - manual or electric, how to express breast milk correctly? Which breast pump is better: Avent or Medela

About the benefits mother's milk A lot has been said, we will not repeat ourselves, we will only tell you how to get a precious drink for your baby if for some reason this cannot be done. IN this issue A breast pump will help, as it is much easier to express than by hand. From the video you will learn why you may need to express milk.

Manufacturers produce completely different different models breast pumps - manual, conventional electric, and two-phase with digital displays. So what to buy good breast pump It’s difficult now due to the availability of assortment. Some come with a set of bottles, silicone pads, bags for storing milk and other necessary little things.

Today we will look at each electric breast pump, reviews, which one is better, and compile the top 7 best breast pumps that mothers have already used and give them positive ratings. But first, we will answer popular questions from nursing mothers and pregnant women who want to purchase a breast pump.

When might you need an electronic breast pump?

The most incredible thing is that modern mothers Already, being pregnant, they want to know everything about this device, but is it worth rushing to buy? Of course not, for a valid decision there must be prerequisites... Here are the most more important than the reasons device purchases:

• If mom needs to leave for a period from several hours to several days. In this case, expressed milk stored in the refrigerator will be useful for feeding the baby;
• If breast fullness or lactostasis occurs, then a high-quality breast pump is the right solution. It is worth noting that the purchase will not solve all the problems of a serious condition; it is important to do the right massage on time, take cold and hot shower and protect your chest from hypothermia;
• If the baby does not latch onto the breast correctly, As a result, milk does not flow normally, or because of this, the baby swallows a lot of air, but not enough milk, and the child does not get enough. Then milk, expressed with a breast pump and poured into a bottle, will definitely come in handy. And at the same time the apparatus;
• If the mother takes medications that are contraindicated for the baby. In this case, feeding is postponed while the mother is undergoing treatment. But the breasts still fill up and it becomes difficult to express them.

Which breast pump is better - manual or electric?

The only difference between them is the operating mechanism. The electric one works on its own from batteries or from the mains, and the manual one works with the help of the mother’s efforts. The second one is in demand because it is relatively inexpensive, but often does not meet the mother’s expectations; after use, she gets even more tired and has little strength to do anything.

Of course, whether to buy a manual or electric breast pump is everyone’s choice, but we are inclined to the best option. Therefore, our topic today is electric models of breast pumps that bring comfort to the life of a mother and her baby.

Choosing an electric breast pump. Rating of the best models 2017. Reviews, characteristics and prices.

7 Ramili - two-phase electric breast pump

Ramili - two-phase electric breast pump

Breast pump Ramili SE350 is convenience, comfort and reliability. It clears out stagnation well if the child cannot do this, easily relieves overflow of milk in the breast and gives relief to the mother. Plus, the design is reliably protected from damage and is equipped with a system to prevent milk from getting into the mechanism.

Using this two-phase device (imitation of a baby's sucking), you will not feel the difference between how your baby sucks at the breast and how the machine expresses milk. Instead, you will experience comfort and pleasure from the process, and the recently reviewed breast pumps (which one is better to take) will no longer be relevant. And most importantly, you can afford such pleasure, because it costs an order of magnitude less than our next participants.

This is a good breast pump made in Great Britain, reviews from mothers about this device are positive, they say that it works quite quietly, and The breast is expressed delicately, creating the feeling that the baby is sucking milk.

• Number of modes: 9
• Intensity adjustment: yes
• Equipment: massage funnel (silicone), container-bottle for milk
• Features: digital display with indication, two-phase pumping.

6

6th place – Medela Mini Electric – the most compact breast pump

If you lead an active lifestyle, value both comfort and your time, and are deciding which breast pump is best, purchase the world’s only smallest and most convenient breast pump.

It is very easy to understand how it works, but you will immediately appreciate the Swiss quality of this company. The device can adapt to your needs, adjusting the intensity, you will definitely select the necessary mode for you.

The reviews write that the device only sucks out the front milk well, and in order for the back milk to be expressed too, you need to help with your hand, lightly massaging the breast. The breast pump is also quite noisy. These two shortcomings prevented it from rising higher in the rankings, but overall reviews about it are good. They say that they like the choice of intensity, so mothers use it for breasts with cracked nipples, as well as lactostasis.

Compactness is also a huge advantage, because you can take it on a trip. If you have used a manual one, try this device, because it is not so expensive due to the fact that it is “mini”, and the company is certainly time-tested.

• Number of modes: 1
• Intensity adjustment: smooth adjustment
• Safety: BPA free
• Equipment: silicone funnel, 150 ml plastic bottle, stand
• Features: works both from the mains and from alkaline batteries.

5

If you are already tired of thinking about which bottle or pacifier to choose for your baby, you need to express milk, but you doubt which breast pump is best to buy, stop guessing. Buy this complete milk expression kit and you won't have to worry or hesitate anymore. The British manufacturer has found the right solution and offers all mothers excellent quality at an average price.

The device operates either from a direct network or from batteries. You can express milk in a container or directly into a bottle. Mothers note that the device is easy to understand, all parts can be washed, and the container for the set is also suitable for sterilizing a bottle with a nipple in the microwave. Overall, the breast pump does its job well and deserves attention.

• Number of modes: 4
• Intensity adjustment - yes
• Safety: BPA free
• Equipment: massage funnel, bottle (150 ml), container for storing the entire set, breast pads, slow flow nipple.

4

4th place – Medela Swing – the best two-phase breast pump

The Swiss breast pump is very light and easy to use. It is created on the basis of new two-phase pumping technologies. This means that pumping will be as close as possible to your baby's natural breastfeeding. At first the vacuum will be weak so that the breasts can adapt and get used to it, and then stronger. At the same time, the mother will not feel pain, because this device was specially designed for sensitive breasts and nipples prone to cracks.

The breast pump has an elegant design and you will like it for its compact size. As the manufacturer assures, it operates almost silently (mains or batteries) and is more powerful than the Mini Electric. But we researched reviews about this breast pump, which one is better, and here’s what moms say: “This breast pump met all expectations - light, comfortable and beautiful, but a little noisy. The higher the speed and intensity, the louder it works. But it doesn’t interfere at all if you don’t pump at night.”

• Number of modes: smooth two-phase mode
• Intensity adjustment: yes
• Safety: BPA free
• Equipment: massage funnel, stand, smart pacifier Calma imitates the resemblance to a mother's breast. Buy Medela Swing at best price RUR 7,999 >>

There is also another model on sale, similar in characteristics but faster for pumping Medela Swing Maxi with Calma nipple. It is designed for simultaneous expression of two mammary glands and is very suitable for mothers with premature baby, because simultaneous pumping increases lactation by about 20% and of course saves your time.

3 Philips Avent SCF332 /01 – the most popular

Here you may have a question, which breast pump is better - Avent or Medela, because in our rating the products of the Swiss company predominate... The answer to it is: if you need quality that has been proven over the years, choose any of them, and Avent and Medela will show their good side.

Philips Avent electric model - best breast pump and deservedly sits in 3rd place in the ranking, because he received positive reviews parents all over the world, and in our country received the Parents' Choice Award 2015.

In 2017, mothers are also sensitive to their baby, their health and value comfort, so their choice falls on the Avent company. The set has everything for complete comfort: pumping speed switching modes, comfortable and soft massage petals, a bottle and nipple made of safe materials.

The advantage of this electric device is that it is easy to operate - there is only one button, it is convenient to use - you can express while sitting or standing, without bending your back in different directions, in order to achieve a better result.

Breastfeeding is a responsible process, but sometimes difficulties arise in it. In such cases, a breast pump will help out. Reviews about these devices are quite mixed, so we’ll try to find out what’s special about them.

Features of choice

Pumping is a process that is worth learning so that milk does not stagnate in the breast, and the baby is fed. A breast pump can become a woman’s main assistant in maintaining lactation. To choose correct model, you need to take into account its capabilities, technical characteristics and reviews of mothers who have already used it. Today, many consultants who advocate breastfeeding say that the baby should be fed on demand and not pumped.

But many mothers face feeding problems due to incorrect or inability to give it to the child correctly. As a result, lactostasis may occur, and even worse, mastitis. To avoid this, it is still worth having a breast pump at home just in case. Reviews say that with skillful handling you can for a long time Feed your baby expressed breast milk.

When and why?

It is necessary to express in several cases:

1. During the postpartum period, when colostrum is transformed into milk. In the first time after childbirth, more milk accumulates than the baby needs, so it is necessary to express.
2. If you need to maintain lactation for a long time. By regularly expressing milk, you can extend your baby's feeding period and feed him even where breastfeeding is not possible.
3. With lactostasis. If a blockage occurs in the mammary gland, it will lead to stagnation of milk. This, in turn, will cause the development of mastitis. In such cases, you should definitely buy a breast pump, reviews of which among mothers are mostly good.

Types and features of work

Modern manufacturers offer a wide selection of breast pumps. They have the same operating principle: a special attachment is placed on the nipple along with the areola. The mechanical or electrical part contributes to the creation of a vacuum, resulting in the release of breast milk. Models from different manufacturers differ in technical characteristics, and many mothers are faced with the problem of how to buy a breast pump and which one is better. Reviews of mechanical or electronic options differ primarily in the price category: the first are cheaper, the second are more expensive.

Mechanical models: choosing the best

A manual breast pump (or mechanical) is a simple device that allows you to conveniently express milk. IN maternity hospitals Such models are not used, but it is quite possible to buy one for home. Mechanical devices are presented in several variations:

1. The piston breast pump is easy to use and quiet. The package includes a bottle for pumping, and a silicone nozzle imitates the natural feeding process. It received good reviews thanks to the mechanism for adjusting the force of pumping, which allows mothers to set the optimal intensity of impact. The devices are easy to sterilize, and their elements are reliable. The most popular models among buyers include devices from the Avent, Chicco, and Medela brands.
2. The syringe device consists of two cylinders located one inside the other. The inner cylinder must be placed on the nipple, and the outer cylinder must be moved back and forth. Such movements create a vacuum, due to which milk comes out of the breast. Almost all modern breast pumps of this type are equipped with a pressure regulator - this allows you to select a specific pumping mode. The most well-known manufacturers such devices are Chicco and Nuk.
3. The pump mechanical breast pump received good reviews due to its convenience and ease of use. By design, it consists of a breast attachment and a pumping element; the package includes a bottle. They prefer devices from such brands as Kurnosiki, Canpol, Tommee Tippee, Mir Detstva, AventIsis.
4. Pear breast pumps are no less easy to use. The design consists of a chest attachment in the form of a plastic horn and a rubber bulb. A special valve regulates pressure release. Among such models, products from the Chicco and Canpol brands attract attention.

Conclusions about mechanical models

Any mother knows that a breast pump will help to pump out the breasts. Which is better? Reviews say that manual models are an excellent choice if you want to save money. They are easy to care for, the pumping process itself is simple, and besides, you can use such devices anywhere without being tied to an electrical outlet. On the other hand, such breast pumps are no different high efficiency pumping can lead to the formation of cracks, and you need to adapt to them.

Breast pump: which one is better?

Mechanical or electronic devices received different reviews and in large numbers. Electric ones are ideal for everyday use. Modern models Available both on batteries and accumulators, and from the mains.

And pumping occurs automatically: the electric motor heats the vacuum. Reviews note that despite high performance and ease of use, they are very noisy during operation. Battery-powered models are more versatile, since you can pump even while walking. On the other hand, they are not very effective.

Equipment

The electric breast pump receives a lot of reviews. When choosing such a model, pay attention to its configuration. Each device is complemented by a special bottle, and most models are equipped with a pumping intensity regulator, a control unit with a display on which the features of the pumping process are visible. In addition, some models are able to express from both breasts at the same time, which is very convenient and effective. Popular brands include devices from Nuk, Medela, Tommee Tippee.

Review of popular models: manual

A modern mother may face certain problems when choosing a breast pump. Which is better? Reviews from “Avent” or “Medela” are highlighted first, since these manufacturers offer a large range of devices. Let's start with a review of Avent brand products:

• Philips Avent. This model presented in three series, each of which has its own characteristics. Thus, Comfort is complemented by trial sets of night and day bra pads. The device is lightweight and compact.
• Natural additionally has a travel container for nipples and is equipped with a mechanism that remembers the pumping mode.
• ISIS is complemented by adapters for cups and also has containers in which milk can be stored. The cost of all models varies from 3200 rubles. up to 3800 rub.

The manual breast pump “Avent” received good reviews due to its equipment; however, mothers note that it takes time to get used to it.

Now let's look at the Medela Harmony manual breast pump. It is the only one in the world that works using a two-phase pumping system and manually. Uniqueness of this device is that it imitates the baby’s natural sucking process, so pumping is quick and comfortable.

New mothers often face challenges and a lot of questions when trying to figure out how to choose a breast pump. Some people don’t even understand what it can be used for, and in which cases it is better to refuse a functional device. There are many product options, and each has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

First of all, you need to figure out what type of device is in specific case It will be more useful - manual or electric. Well, then, taking into account the set additional options, auxiliary characteristics and dimensions family budget, it will not be difficult to make a final decision.

In what cases is a breast pump useful?

Before you think about purchasing a breast pump, you need to understand that expressing with it is not mandatory. Quite the opposite, when proper organization The breastfeeding process can be done perfectly well without it. Experts insist that the use of the device is necessary only if there are appropriate indications, just “just in case” there is no need to use it!

According to doctors, a manual or electric breast pump is necessary in the following cases:

1. Stimulation of lactation for the development of the process. In order for the milk to begin to flow, in the first days after the birth of the baby, the mammary glands need to be stimulated by applying the baby to them. In some cases, this is not possible, then you can resort to using the device (with regularity approximately once every 2 hours).
2. Stimulation of lactation in case of milk deficiency. If you use a manual or electric breast pump, the volume of milk produced can be significantly increased. The main thing here is to use the device after each feeding, then positive result will be evident with each subsequent meal.
3. Ensuring quality pumping. Some women use it quite successfully manual method pumping, but for this you need to have certain skills. In the absence of these, it is better to resort to the use of a breast pump to reduce the traumatic impact.

In some cases, the use of a functional device can even be harmful:

• Lactostasis. Some women mistakenly believe that using a breast pump allows them to better empty their breasts of milk and eliminate congestion. In fact, in this case, a properly performed massage will help more, but pumping can, on the contrary, aggravate the situation.
• Breast stimulation with normal indicators. Using the device to prevent problems only creates those same problems. If you express milk after feedings, despite the fact that the baby has eaten well, the volume of the product will increase, causing discomfort.

Practice shows that there is no need to use a breast pump if in the first months of a baby’s life you feed him on demand and not according to a schedule. Regular stimulation of the mammary glands will ensure the normal course of all processes and there will be no need to provoke lactation in this way.

Types of mechanical models, their advantages and disadvantages

The simplest type of breast pump is mechanical. The principle of its action is based on irritation of the area around the nipple by applying pressure. Stimulation in this case will be manual. There are two types of such structures:

• Pump breast pump with bulb. The simplest and cheapest option, which involves squeezing the pump yourself to create a vacuum. Unfortunately, the manual version is characterized by a low degree of productivity, there are usually no containers for collecting milk, and your hands quickly get tired from work.

• Piston model. An improved analogue of the simplest options, which works thanks to a syringe-type suction system. When the piston is pulled out, the pressure necessary to start the process of fluid removal is created. If before the manipulation you carry out a thorough manual massage mammary glands, then the milk will flow even better. Modern products are equipped with silicone nozzles, which increase the degree of comfort during the pumping process.

Regardless of what types of mechanical breast pumps are used in practice, they have the following advantages:

• Simplicity of design, low probability of failure. The product can be easily washed, cleaned and sterilized.

Tip: If financial position allows, it is better to purchase an electronic breast pump. This is an innovative product that also runs on electricity, but has improved characteristics and virtually no disadvantages. Powerful, safe and quiet, the device greatly simplifies the process of pumping and allows you to do your own thing.

• If desired, you can control the intensity of the device; you only need to increase or decrease the pressure, reduce or increase the frequency of movements.
• Any mechanical type manual breast pump costs much less than its electric counterpart.

The only obvious drawback of such devices is the fact that a woman has to put in a lot of effort while working. If you have to express frequently and for a long time, this is accompanied by significant discomfort.

5 Best Mechanical Breast Pumps

When choosing a manual breast pump of a mechanical type, first of all you should pay attention to the following models:

• The kit includes all the elements and accessories necessary for pumping. There is a nozzle with the help of which the baby's mouth is simulated, which stimulates the natural flow of milk. This model is easy to use, it can be used not only at home, but also, if necessary, taken on the road. There are no obvious disadvantages to the model.

• A Swiss creation with a two-phase pumping system, i.e. it can set a fast or slow pace of work, adapting to the woman's needs. The handle is very soft and works silently, the device can be assembled and disassembled in seconds. The only drawback is the lack of anatomical shape of the nipple shield.

• The device consists of only three parts, and practice shows that this is quite enough. The soft massaging funnel is equipped with two rings for convenience. There is a container for sterilization and transfer of the product. But the milk container could have been a little larger.

• Chicco. A very cheap but convenient manual option for women who do not suffer from milk deficiency. The operation of the device is adjustable, the nipples are not pulled back. The set includes a bottle and a comfortable nipple.

• The world of childhood. The best option if you don’t have to use the breast pump very often. The device can be attached to any bottle with a standard neck. Unfortunately, the silicone insert in in this case missing, and if used too often the product may break.

New versions of mechanical breast pumps appear on the baby products market every day, so any woman can choose the optimal product.

Features and characteristics of electric models

An electric breast pump is a convenient device that runs on batteries or an outlet, thanks to which you do not need to exert any physical effort in the process of expressing milk. In addition, such devices have the following advantages:

• The pumping process is simplified as much as possible. You literally need to adapt the product and start the process. Thanks to this, the device can be used for cases where the breasts need to be emptied regularly.
• There is a sucking simulation function. The electric device pumps up pressure using a pulse principle, so it imitates natural breastfeeding better than other devices.
• The mode can be adjusted as desired. There is nothing easier than strengthening or weakening the air injection process.
• There are models that have two attachments, which allows you to treat both breasts at the same time.

But such models also have their drawbacks. This is the presence of sound, high price products and the inability to carry out complete sterilization (due to the presence of an electrical unit).

5 Best Electric Breast Pumps

To understand which electric breast pump is better, you need to compare the characteristics and equipment of several models. In practice, the following functional devices have proven themselves well:

• The model allows you to simultaneously treat both mammary glands and is equipped with two modes. The vacuum level can be adjusted in different ways. It is noteworthy that this device is characterized by almost silent operation. The product operates on mains power or batteries, and the electrical unit can be fixed on your belt and carried with you. The only disadvantage of the product is the very high cost.

• Avent Philips SCF 332/01. A unique device, during the operation of which a woman does not need to lean forward. She can lean back in a chair or chair and completely relax. The task assigned to the device is performed very efficiently due to the presence of three settings options. The product is equipped with a massage attachment. Stimulation is carried out very delicately. The set includes a bottle and pacifier. But at the same time, the device makes quite a noticeable noise, and it is not cheap.

• The main advantage of this option is its compactness. If desired, the pumping process can be done using only one hand. For periodic use this is an ideal product. The vacuum level is adjustable; work is carried out both from the mains and from batteries. But this device also produces pronounced noise.

• This is quite expensive, but very convenient and advanced from all points of view, a technical device. We can say that this is a whole system for expressing milk. The process is fully controlled, setting up and using the device takes just a few minutes. Two-phase pumping and the ability to treat both mammary glands at once allow manipulation to be carried out regularly, without requiring significant time and energy costs. The kit includes a backlit display and a function for saving data on the operating parameters of the device.

• An excellent budget model that, despite the cost, clearly fulfills all its tasks. The device operates in two-phase mode, it is compact and mobile, and allows you to adjust the force of pumping. In addition, women are attracted by the convenient lever and the presence of a massage effect on the chest pad. True, in practice, the suction speed regulator can cause some inconvenience.

It is clear that sometimes it is difficult to make a final decision without trying the device in action. Therefore, young mothers often first rent the selected product in order to compare the advantages and disadvantages of the device.

Which breast pump is better - manual or electric?

Despite the fact that an electric device is superior to its mechanical counterpart in many aspects, it is not entirely correct to definitively say that it will be better for all women. To choose the best option, you need to compare the selected degree of intensity with how often and how actively the item will be used. If we abstract from the specifics of all possible situations, then it is worth considering compact models of medium-power automatic machines.

In addition, during the selection process the following points should be taken into account:

1. Planned intensity of use of the device. If pumping will be done frequently, then it is better to choose from electric models. In cases where the instrument is needed only to stimulate the flow of milk in the first days after the birth of the baby, you can get by with a simple mechanical device.
2. Design specifics. Here a lot depends on individual preferences, but models with a short neck are traditionally more comfortable. There is no need to lean forward when using them. But it is better to choose petal attachments; they exactly follow the shape of the breast.
3. Availability of additional options and auxiliary capabilities. Don’t think that fully equipped products are just a marketing ploy. Most of the accessories offered with a breast pump are truly necessary and make expressing milk easier. In one case, the mother may need bottles with which she can immediately feed the baby. The other contains special bags for storing the resulting product in the freezer. Sometimes massagers, additional attachments, and containers for carrying devices can come in handy.

It turns out that it is not so important whether the model is electrical or mechanical. The main thing is that it meets the requests placed on it at a particular point in time. In addition, you need to understand that the ease of use of the item is guaranteed only if the pumping rules are followed.

Some mothers collect a “dowry” for their baby in advance, others wait until the child is born, fearing to buy anything out of superstition. But some things can still be purchased in advance. Such purchases include a breast pump.

Do not rush to abandon this device. It not only helps rid the breasts of excess milk, but also stimulates lactation in case of its deficiency, and also prevents the development of lactostasis.

It is necessary, while still pregnant, to inquire about how to choose the right breast pump, so that later you do not buy the first model you come across in a hurry with a child in your arms. It is necessary to find out all the advantages and disadvantages of mechanical and electrical devices, choosing the one that best performs its function.

Variety of devices

Many expectant mothers, especially those expecting their first child, do not know which breast pump to choose. Moreover, there are so many models and they all have their pros and cons. They also differ in price, which directly depends on the operating principle of the device. So which is better - a manual or electronic breast pump? It is worth conducting a thorough analysis of all models.

1. The most simple view breast pump, and also the cheapest, is a device with a rubber bulb. However, other than the low price, it has no advantages. This model is ineffective, and if used frequently it can provoke. Also, a manual breast pump with a bulb is difficult to clean. It should only be used in as a last resort when the chest is really full.
2. Inexpensive models also include a vacuum breast pump made of glass. He's not much better model with a pear, but requires the use of only one hand. But if a woman has weak hands, such a device will cause her a lot of inconvenience. Even a compact Avent manual breast pump will be ineffective if the mother does not learn to express milk with one hand. You need to think about this before purchasing.
3. If you are seriously wondering which manual breast pump to choose, you should pay attention to the model with a syringe. This device consists of two cylinders, the smaller of which is placed in the larger one. When the “syringe” is moved, a vacuum is created, under the pressure of which milk is released. A syringe breast pump can also be used as a feeding bottle.
4. Mechanical breast pump with a piston allows you to quickly, silently and painlessly perform the pumping procedure. This device is equipped with a silicone diaphragm and a petal massager, which allow you to adjust the force of pressure on the chest, thus avoiding injury.
5. The best breast pump is electric. It does not require any effort from the woman, saves time and allows you to combine pumping with feeding or another activity. Such a device will not be cheap, but if there is a need to constantly pump out milk, it is simply irreplaceable. An electric breast pump does not injure the breast and provides efficient pumping and easy to use.
6. When researching types of breast pumps, be sure to consider battery-powered models. They are indispensable when traveling, because a mechanical breast pump is not convenient to use everywhere. However, constantly changing batteries makes this device an expensive pleasure. Alternatively, you can buy a model with a rechargeable battery or use such a breast pump only outside the home.
7. If you can't decide which device is better - mechanical or electric, take a universal one. If necessary, it can be plugged into the network and speed up the pumping process. And if there is no outlet nearby, then use it manually.

Let's summarize: there are two fundamentally different types of breast pumps - mechanical and electronic. The advantage of manual ones is their noiselessness, affordable price and the ability to control the intensity of pumping. At the same time, pumping milk is coming not as fast as we would like. There is also a risk of injury to the nipples.

The advantage of electric models is that they significantly save time and effort spent pumping. The downside is the high price, little noise and the impossibility of completely sterilizing the device.

Mechanism of action

To understand how to choose a breast pump, you need to know how it works. Both manual and electric models pump milk out of the breast by creating a vacuum around the nipple area. Only this effect is created in different ways.

Devices with a bulb “suck” the mammary gland when you press the pump. In syringe models, a vacuum is formed by the movement of the piston. To use mechanical breast pumps, you must firmly place the breast shield on your breast and use your hand to press the pump, piston or lever. Process manual expression requires skill, which will not appear immediately.

IN electrical appliance The vacuum is created using a motor, so your hands remain free. An Avent breast pump or any other will quickly and painlessly express milk. It is enough just to install the funnel correctly so that the nipple is clearly in the middle, and press the start button.

Model Reviews

One of the most popular mechanical devices is the Avent manual breast pump. It is easy to assemble and wash. Ease of use is due to the petal pad designed for the nipple. The set consists of a lid, a soft nipple and two containers - for nipples and milk. The breast pump is also equipped with additional parts. The device is relatively inexpensive and effective.

And yet, the Avent electric breast pump is more convenient to use. It allows you to pump out milk while standing or sitting with a straight spine. Not only expresses, but also stimulates lactation thanks to three levels of rhythm. This model does not require the purchase of an additional mechanical device, as it is equipped with a wide range of equipment. Disadvantages include the high price and the noise that the breast pump makes.

Pay attention to the Medela brand handheld device. It has a two-phase pumping system, which allows you to make the process faster or more gentle. The piston moves smoothly and silently, so your hands do not get tired. The Medela mechanical breast pump is the best of these devices. In addition, it is very affordable. But the set does not include a pacifier, so you will have to buy one additionally.

Of the Medela electric breast pumps, the Mini Electric and Swing Maxi models are especially loved by mothers. The first one impresses with its portability, low price and the ability to regulate the smoothness of pumping. In addition, the device is made of high-quality material that is safe for health. Disadvantages include noise.

The Swing Maxi model costs twice as much, but has a number of advantages. Firstly, the ability to express both breasts at once. Secondly, protection against milk getting into the motor. Thirdly, it is silent, thanks to which you can breastfeed your baby while milk is being pumped out from the second gland. Also a plus is the ability to adjust the rhythm mode. Consultants for breastfeeding It is recommended to start at low speed.

Budget options for breast pumps can be found among Tommee Tippee products. The mechanical model of this brand is very easy to use and maintain. It is equipped with a silicone breast shield that easily adapts to any breast size. The set includes a container for sterilizing milk in the microwave and a storage container. In addition, a special valve helps to avoid reverse suction of milk. The insufficiently spacious container for expressed milk is perhaps the only drawback of this device.

The Tommee Tippee brand also has electronic models equipped with several speeds and made of safe material. They are easy to disassemble and sterilize. An added bonus are the bra pads.

What to consider before purchasing

Before choosing a breast pump, consider how often you will use it. If you need to express from time to time, it is better to purchase a manual device. For constant use, of course, it’s worth forking out for an electric one. And if finances allow, then take both - for home use and travel. In addition, there is always the opportunity to buy a used breast pump, as well as rent one.

When choosing a mechanical model, consider:

1. Piston and syringe devices are much more effective than pump devices (breast pumps with a bulb) and do not injure the breast. In addition, pump models can provoke lactostasis.
2. A silicone, or ideally anatomical, pad is much better than a plastic one. Firstly, it is more hygienic. Secondly, it does not cause discomfort during the pumping process. Thirdly, it prevents milk from spilling.
3. It is necessary to choose a breast pump with all the parts and additional accessories: containers, nipples, nozzles. This saves time.

When purchasing an electronic breast pump, remember:

1. It’s better to immediately purchase a set of silicone petal-shaped attachments than to look for the right size later.
2. The best breast pump is one that runs on both mains power and batteries. This makes it more functional. If you have your eye on this model, please note that batteries are sold separately. Better yet, immediately select a device with a battery for which you need to purchase a charger.
3. In order not to purchase two devices at once - mechanical and electronic - give preference universal model with removable motor. Use it at home, plug it in, and take it to work or on a trip as a manual breast pump.
4. You definitely need to pay attention to the material from which the device is made. Sometimes the price of a model can be reduced just because it is made of cheap plastic. Firstly, such material is short-lived. Secondly, it can harm the health of the mother and child.
5. The two-phase pumping system delicately prepares the breasts for the procedure, performing massage in the first stage. In the second stage, the chest is completely emptied. It’s even better if the device has more than two modes.

When choosing a breast pump, whether it's a manual or electric model, look to see if it's easy to clean. If the device is difficult to disassemble, then complete sterilization is impossible. Also pay attention to which parts can be sterilized and which cannot. Take care of purchasing a breast pump in advance so that you can easily compare different models and choose the right one.

The lactation period always causes women great discomfort and anxiety. This is especially familiar to those nursing mothers who have a lot of excess milk. Its accumulation in the chest can lead to painful sensations and even the development of mastitis. One of the best breast pumps, chosen based on the results of reading our rating, will help you avoid this and eliminate lactostasis in time. Here we have reviewed only good manual and electric models that deserve your attention.

Which breast pump is better - manual or electric?

If you need an inexpensive device, then we can talk about manual models, but they have less suction power, so you can get tired of using them and spend a lot of time. When expressing large portions on a regular basis, it is no longer possible to do without electrically driven products.

Obviously, if you plan to use the device frequently, it is better to buy an electric one. It does almost all the work for you and most accurately imitates the movements of your baby’s lips, which helps normal flow lactation.

Which brand of breast pump is best to buy?

There are a lot of Chinese “crafts” on the market from unknown brands, so it is best to choose between popular manufacturers with a good reputation. Usually these include companies from Western Europe. This is what the TOP manufacturers of the best breast pumps look like:

• Chicco is a “children’s” brand that makes sure that every child has high-quality clothing, toys, personal hygiene products and much more. He brings to life the experience of obstetricians, pediatricians, psychologists and other specialists, which guarantees the high popularity of the company’s products.
• is an English brand that occupies the first place in the UK children's goods market. She is known for working closely with mothers, each time releasing products that better meet the needs of women and babies.
• Philips Avent- this brand in England is as popular as Tommee. It appeared in 1984, and now actively continues to create environmentally friendly, effective and comfortable products for mothers and newborns. He has very few breast pumps and they are only electric.
• Medela– if we compare the products of this company and Avent, then the latter still win in terms of popularity. But this brand is also quite famous, and it “takes” good value prices and quality. He has several models of manual, piston type.

Rating of the best machines for expressing milk

The basis for its compilation was feedback from customers and specialists. From technical characteristics and other nuances, we paid attention to the following:

• Complete set (presence of a box for sterilization and nipples, bottle volume);
• Materials of the bottle, nipple and other components;
• Functions (adjustment of pumping force, possibility of sterilization);
• Ease of use (ease of disassembly and washing, reliable fixation on the chest);
• Safety of use (painless, hypoallergenic, non-traumatic);
• The period for which the guarantee is issued;
• Design (color, shape).

But the most important criteria were the speed and efficiency of expressing milk. That is why this rating of the best breast pumps was divided into manual and electric models.

The best manual breast pumps

1st place – Chicco Natural Feeling Wellbeing

The Chicco brand is widely known for its quality children's products, and this product only added to its popularity. It is primarily due to its convenient operation, simple care and safety of use. Moms are delighted with large diameter funnel, since it covers the entire nipple and is well attached to it, which is why the milk does not spill. The list of reasons for declaring this manual breast pump the best continues with its simple design that can be quickly disassembled for cleaning. But what raises doubts is that the manufacturer only provides a 14-day guarantee - as reviews show, the product is quite high quality.

Advantages:

• Large funnel diameter;
• Removable silicone pad;
• Soft nipple;
• Convenient to use;
• Silent;
• Easy to disassemble and assemble;
• Easy to wash.

Flaws:

• Not suitable for long-term use.

Despite its small size and ergonomic shape, it is still quite difficult to hold the Chicco Natural Feeling Wellbeing in your hands for a long time.

2nd place – Tommee Tippee

The first thing I would like to note about this, one of the best breast pumps for nursing mothers, is that it is fully equipped with everything necessary for convenient and comfortable use. There are pads for the bra, a bottle with a nipple, and covers for it, plus some other components. The device expresses quite well, but according to reviews, it takes a long time. It is possible to regulate the speed of the process, since this is a mechanical model, only with the help of comfortable handle and diaphragm pressure. An equally important advantage is the hypoallergenic nature of the materials used - silicone and plastic.

Advantages:

• Availability of a container for storing milk;
• Interchangeability with other bottles;
• Adequate price;
• There is a box for sterilization;
• Suctions milk well, but full breasts excess may remain in it.

Flaws:

• Inconvenient to wash; residue remains;
• Not suitable for large volumes;
• The warranty period is 3 months.

Those who decide to buy the Tommee Tippee model should remember that the container is difficult to tighten, therefore, according to customer reviews, milk may leak.

The best electric breast pumps

Of course, these are the most comfortable models, which are relevant for long-term use for a year or even longer .

1st place – Philips Avent ISIS IQ “UNO”

First place can safely be given to this assistant for nursing mothers, because it copes with its function with a bang, without rubbing or irritating the nipples. In reviews, users note that there are no unpleasant sensations during pumping. In this case, the procedure is quite quick and easy. The device is universal, operating both from mains and batteries. Naturally, the English manufacturer of the best electric breast pumps has provided for adjusting the intensity of milk suction, which makes the process even more effective.

Advantages:

• Compactness;
• Easy to clean;
• Easy to assemble;
• Atraumatic;
• Convenient to use;
• Easy to use.

Flaws:

• In manual mode it works less efficiently;
• High price.

By choosing the Philips Avent ISIS IQ “UNO”, you will not need to buy any accessories for the procedure; the kit includes a bottle, a nipple, and a container for it.

2nd place – Philips Avent SCF332/01

It is not surprising that second place in this ranking of the best breast pumps is confidently occupied by a device also from Philips Avent. Even though she raised the price of the product above average, she at the same time combined convenience and efficiency of use. Parents highly appreciate the automatic start of the device in the gentle stimulation mode, which eliminates irritation of the nipples and breast skin. Next, if necessary, you can select another mode, since there are three of them.

Note that even the best breast pumps have their drawbacks. Thus, the nozzle included in the kit is small, so over time there may be a need to replace it. But they are still in no hurry to part with it - because of the massage effect. This electric model also deserves a good rating due to its intuitively simple assembly. It’s also pleasantly surprising that it’s easy to control with just one click of a button, meaning mom won’t have to overexert herself.

Advantages:

• 2 year warranty;
• Equipment;
• Soft pacifier for babies;
• The attachment is pleasant to the chest;
• Adjusting the intensity of pumping.

Flaws:

• Small volume milk container;

Most reviews about the Philips Avent SCF332/01 model are positive, but there are still negative statements about the need to disassemble and wash the device after each use, it gets dirty so quickly.

3rd place – Medela Mini Electric

It's pretty good device premium class from a very popular company, and it deservedly occupies third position in this ranking. Women indicate in reviews that they very often use it to express not only excess milk, but also the main one for feeding a child without a breast. Of course, the container volume here is very small (150 ml), but the bottle can be purchased separately. Among the negative aspects, it is worth highlighting the absence of breast pads and the nipple itself in the set.

Advantages:

• Does not cause pain;
• Convenient bottle included;
• Does not leave cracks on the nipples;
• Eco-friendly materials;
• Powered by two sources.

Flaws:

• A little noisy;
• Fragile;
• High price;
• Poor equipment.

In more than one review, nursing mothers complain about the fragility of the product, and this is very important, because compared to previous models, this device only comes with a 12-month warranty.

Which breast pump is best to buy?

If you rarely use the device for collecting milk, and your lactation occurs calmly, then you can limit yourself to manual models. Those who plan to express lactate to feed a baby without breastfeeding should take a closer look at electric options. But in any case, it is desirable that, in addition to the bottle, the package includes a nipple for it and a container for sterilization.

It is also important that the device imitates the baby’s sucking movements during feeding, which stabilizes the release of lactate. For safe use the product must be made of hypoallergenic materials - plastic and silicone.

• Women with sensitive skin on the chest you can choose Medela Mini Electric.
• To collect large quantity milk Philips Avent SCF332/01 is quite suitable.
• If you need a breast pump that can operate both automatically and manually, then it is better to buy Avent ISIS IQ “UNO” (Philips).
• For those who are looking inexpensive option and don't mind manual models, it's worth getting a Tommee Tippee.

As our rating shows, it is almost impossible to buy the best breast pump cheaply. Obviously, this acquisition is a rather serious contribution to normal lactation. And if you have the opportunity to take a good device, then it’s definitely worth doing; in the end, your baby will be happy and you won’t have any problems with breastfeeding.