Breastfeeding is always the number one option for babies and provides all your baby’s needs in the first 6 months of life. The right breast pump can be a great breastfeeding aid in times of need. Mothers choose to use a breast pump for many reasons such as to increase milk supply and maintain a sufficient supply of milk, to provide milk for a premature baby, to induce lactation for an adopted baby and even to store milk for baby when not breastfeeding.
Types of breast pumps:
- Manual breast pump
For occasional use, to leave milk for baby. Very convenient and portable with less cost. Look for one that only needs one hand to operate, like the Unimom Mezzo Manual breast pump. It is easy to assemble, only needs one hand to operate and has an easy grip handle. - Mini electric breast pump
Designed for part time expressing. Runs via battery or AC adapter. Smaller and portable. Some can be very noise, especially if the motor is attached to the breast shield. Ones with an air tube between the motor and breast shield are usually quieter. The Unimom Allegro has a bonus inbuilt rechargeable battery which charges everytime the pump is plugged in. This gives up to 2 hours of portable pumping life. The noise is a soft vibrating noise which is very inoffensive and can be used in public without making a racket! - Hospital grade pump
This type may be required for a mother who needs to pump to increase her milk supply, provide milk for a premature baby or other situations where the baby is not breastfeeding to provide stimulation for the mothers breasts. Hospital grade pumps are designed to endure a lot of use, and have a wider suction range. They are not as portable as a mini electric pump and use AC adapter only. The Unimom Forte hospital grade pump is quiet and very efficient. It is built as compact as can be, making it quite portable and convenient. The Unimom Carry Bag is a great accessory to have for storing your pump and consumable parts.
Important things to look for when purchasing a breast pump
- All consumable parts should be BPA free
These endocrine-disrupting chemicals are super nasty and are increasingly being shown to have far-reaching health effects, so you definitely do not want them anywhere near your baby (or yourself!). - Hygienic closed system
Your breast pump should have a hygienic closed system. This means that no milk will ever enter your breast pump motor causing damage or bacteria build up and mould inside. It is important that it does not only have a closed filter, it needs to have a milk back flow protector included.
Unimom is a popular choice of breast feeding products because of high quality standards, affordability, eco friendliness and excellent customer reviews. Our entire pump cover and accessories are made of BPA, phthalates and lead free materials, making Unimom unique. Used in hospitals and approved by lactation consultants, midwives and other health professionals. Unimom is an excellent choice for comfort and successful breastfeeding.
For more information visit www.unimom.co.nz