When and Where Will You Be Pumping?
With so many breast pumps on the market, it can feel completely overwhelming to try to determine which one is the best option for you. Different pumps offer different features and options, but which ones will serve you best for your particular lifestyle?
First, it’s important to determine when and how you will need to use your breast pump. Most moms find their breast pump use will fit into one of these categories:
- Exclusive Pumping: no direct breastfeeding, milk is expressed and fed to baby via bottle.
- Regular Pumping: pumping while separated from baby regularly (such as going back to work), nursing when together with baby.
- Occasional Pumping: pumping for the occasional separation from baby (such as date night or a doctor’s appointment), nursing when together with baby.
Once you’ve identified how often you will be pumping, consider where you will be pumping. Will you have access to electricity or will you need a battery-operated pump? Will you need to pump while performing other tasks that require you to be up and moving or can you sit during sessions? Many mothers who exclusively or regularly pump find that having a primary and secondary pump makes pumping more convenient and flexible. Primary pumps are designed for daily use, are double electric, have hospital strength suction, use traditional flanges, and reliably and effectively drain your breasts. Secondary pumps can be used as a complement to a primary pump as they aren’t typically as effective at adequately removing milk. Secondary pumps include wearable pumps and small, portable pumps.
Common Features for Breast Pumps
Knowing when and where you will use your pump is essential, but what about the bells and whistles? Many pumps offer features that can make pumping easier and more effective. Here’s a breakdown to help you determine which pump features are most important to you:
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Timer - keeps track of how long you’ve been pumping
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Nightlight or Backlit Screen - useful when pumping at night
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Letdown/Massage Mode - faster, gentler suction pattern that helps trigger milk release
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Expression Mode - slower, stronger suction pattern that helps remove milk after letdown
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Independent Cycle and Vacuum Adjustments - allows for independent control of how fast the pump “sucks” or cycles and how strong the suction is resulting in a more customizable pumping experience
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App Connectivity - connects to a digital app that may include timers, reminders, session tracking, and more
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Automatic Shut Off - automatically stops pumping, typically at 30 minutes
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Memory Function - remembers your settings for next time
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Battery Option - can be powered by rechargeable or disposable batteries
Motif Breast Pump for Your Breastfeeding Journey
Exclusive and Regular Pumping
The Luna Double Electric Breast Pump is available in a battery and plug-in option and delivers the ultimate power and customization with independent cycle and vacuum adjustments. Luna is the most powerful pump in the Motif lineup with a suction strength of up to 280 mmHg. Other features include a timer, massage & expression modes, automatic shut-off, lightweight design, a wide range of flange sizes, and a super quiet motor. This workhorse is an ideal primary pump.
Motif Luna is a good choice for:
- exclusive pumping
- pumping for multiples
- regular, daily pumping
- a primary pump choice
- occasional pumping
- pumping to increase your milk supply
Affordable Pumping
The Twist Breast Pump is an affordable portable breast pump that is simple to use. It offers massage and expression modes, and an LED light timer, and can be powered by AA batteries for maximum versatility.
The Twist Breast Pump works well for pumping moms seeking an insurance-eligible option.
On-The-Go Pumping
Duo Double Electric Breast Pump packs multiple features into a tiny, portable package that makes it easy to pump almost anywhere. It boasts 10 suction levels, massage and expression modes, 2.5 hours of pumping time per charge, and a Memory Mode that recalls your customized pump settings. It comes with a hands-free pumping bra to support all your multitasking!
Motif Duo is a good choice for:
- occasional or part-time pumping
- pumping on the go
- hands-free pumping
- a secondary or backup pump
Motif Aura Hands-free Breast Pump is a wearable, wireless pump designed to fit comfortably in your bra. It delivers a powerful and discreet pumping experience that can be controlled from the Motif Aura App. Each pump unit weighs less than a pound and is super quiet. Aura offers 2+ hours of pumping time per charge, massage and expression modes, and an impressive range of flange sizes. Motif Aura and Luna work together to make the perfect pair!
Motif Aura is a good choice for:
- occasional or part-time pumping
- pumping on the go
- discreet, hands-free pumping
- a secondary or backup pump
Will Insurance Cover My Breast Pump?
Since 2010 the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has required insurers to cover breastfeeding support, including breast pumps. Most moms find that their insurance covers at least a few options. It is also typically possible to pay an upgrade fee for features such as a rechargeable battery option. Using your insurance benefit to get a primary pump, such as the Luna, offers the best bang for your buck. A high-quality primary pump is essential to building and maintaining an abundant milk supply. If you need a secondary pump for on-the-go or occasional use, add it to your baby shower registry or use your HSA/FSA funds to purchase one out of pocket.
Information provided in blogs should not be used as a substitute for medical care or consultation.
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