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Choosing a Breast Pump Choosing a breast pump depends on several factors: Recommend the best pump that the family can afford. It is an investment that will pay off in satisfaction in use and maintenance of breastmilk supply. In certain situations, a rental pump will be the most cost effective. If the mother anticipates long term pumping or using the pump for subsequent babies, the purchasing will be the best option. There are several types of pumps available: A breast pump should simulate, as realistically as possible, a baby nursing at the breast. Research has shown that normal healthy newborns achieve up to 220 mm Hg of suction while nursing and have a suck-swallow cycle of about 40 - 60 times per minute. A little faster when they first begin breastfeeding, and a little slower after the let-down reflex occurs. The pump should meet these criteria. The flange is the part of the pump that fits over the breast. It should cover the areola to support the tissue and the opening should fit loosely around the nipple and allow it to stretch freely into the nipple tunnel during the suction phase of the cycle. Most pumps have an adapter that fits into the flange to adjust the size as needed or has several sizes of flanges available. Features to look for in selecting a breast pump: Breast pump models and features change fairly rapidly. Check with the manufacturers representatives periodically to stay abreast of changes. (Every effort has been made to obtain accurate and current information about various pumps. If inaccuracies are noted or updated information becomes available, please notify our webmaster so this page can be corrected.) (If you wish to print out these charts, use the landscape feature in your printer window) Selected Hospital Grade Pumps (Double Pumping)
Selected Personal Use Pumps (Double Pumping)
Selected Battery Operated & Small Electric Pumps (Single Pumping)
Selected Manually Operated Pumps (Single Pumping)
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