Monday, December 15, 2008

Breast Pump Basics for Nursing Moms

If you plan to breastfeed, a breast pump is an essential tool that will help make this experience more convenient for both you and your baby.

The Benefits of a Breast Pump - Breast pumps have several benefits and not just for working moms: They will help ensure that milk is always available for your baby even if you are not. They will allow another person to share the joy of feeding the baby (especially dad as he may be feeling a little left out). They will allow another person to feed the baby while you get some much needed rest! They will help you find relief if you experience engorgement. Pumping can release flat or inverted nipples.

Several types of breast pumps are available. You should choose your pump based upon your personal needs and situation:

Manual Breast Pumps are usually the least expensive and are generally lightweight and portable. They are operated by hand and you must squeeze on a handle to generate the pumping action. Manual breast pumps are most suited for occasional pumping and are often used to pump one breast while the baby nurses on the other breast.

Battery Operated Breast Pumps generally fall in the middle of the price range and are operated by battery power. They will collect breast milk quicker than manual pumps. Often quieter than the electric pumps, the battery operated breast pump may be a great option if noise is a concern.

Electric Breast Pumps generally fall within the top level of the price range. They are often larger and heavier and are powered by a piston which closely imitates the rhythmic sucking action and pressure of a nursing baby. Many electric pumps come with a complete feeding system including storage and feeding bottles. Some of the best electric pumps come in convenient carrying cases which allow space for storing the expressed milk in insulated cases. Electric pumps will allow you to express your breast milk quicker and provide more control over the speed and suction level. Electric breast pumps are the best choice when returning back to work full time or when it is necessary to spend several hours each day away from your baby.

Double Breast Pumps help to stimulated milk production and will cut your pumping time in half.

There are many factors involved in choosing the right breast pump. Contact you local lactation consultant if you have questions or are not certain which one will work best for you.

Julie Zarchi is a wahm and owner of http://www.supermomz.com an online boutique featuring Esssentials for Today's Busy SuperMom. Having breastfed two children, Julie has first hand experience as to which essentials are necessary to help make your breastfeeding experience a success.

More information about Julie and to find breastfeeding products and nursing bra's...visit http://www.supermomz.com


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