One of the biggest challenges new and experienced moms face is finding the time and a private space to pump breast milk. As a nurse and former breastfeeding mom returning to work, I understand that hurdle all too well. I can remember lugging a massive breast pump and all its parts and long cords to work and struggling to find somewhere private enough.
The responsibilities of my household chores began to increase as piles of laundry filled the room. I started to feel so much stress that pumping was far from enjoyable and more like a chore that I eventually decided to phase out. With all my education as a nurse, I knew that breastmilk was the best for my baby, but I couldn't maintain it.
Thanks to advancing technology, pumping moms now have an option that frees up their hands and allows them to accomplish all their daily tasks. Hands-free breast pumps enable moms to pump more frequently and comfortably. These pumps help support breastfeeding outcomes and improve the overall well-being of the mothers who use them.
The convenience of being able to pump wherever, whenever, means that busy moms don't have to miss out on important moments. Pumping moms are no longer stuck to a pump that stays in one spot. Thanks to this technology, the days of pumping burnout are gone.
In this article, I’ll share my insights into why these devices are lifesavers. You'll better understand what a hands-free pump is and how to choose one. I'll even share some tips on using them effectively. Read on to explore the many benefits of a hands-free pump and why this nurse recommends adding this device to your purchase list today.
Understanding Hands-Free Breast Pumps
A hands-free breast pump, also known as a wearable breast pump, is the perfect way for a pumping mom to provide the best nourishment to her baby while maintaining her daily responsibilities. Wearable breast pumps are gaining popularity among busy moms, and it's not hard to understand why. They are not only convenient but also easy to use, providing reassurance and confidence to the user.
What is a hands-free pump?
A hands-free or wearable breast pump is portable and discreet, allowing busy moms more freedom while collecting breast milk for their babies. Hands-free breast pumps fit directly into your bra, eliminating the hassle of cords and bulky machines that require a wall outlet. Both the piece that suctions the milk and the collection device can be placed inside your bra.
Traditional breast pumps are anything but discreet. They are loud and have annoying tubing that can almost be a tripping hazard. Traditional breast pumps don't do anything for your self-esteem while you are sitting with large bottles dangling down from your breasts. A hands-free breast pump allows the user to collect milk more discretely than a traditional breast pump. Wearable breast pumps promote independence and freedom.
Types of hands-free breast pumps
Breast pumps have evolved and continue to change to match the needs of busy moms. Today, there are many options for choosing a hands-free breast pump. Some pumps have battery-operated machines that attach via tubing to the milk collection portions and clip on your pants.
Others can fit directly into your bra, collecting milk into the receptacles. With advancing technology and the use of smartphones, many of these hands-free pumps have an app that allows the user to track time pumping and adjust suction intensity.
Momcozy is a brand that promotes a mother's individuality and maintains that a mother should never lose themselves, even after becoming a mother. The mobile flow by Momcozy has a motor with the latest technology that can extract milk efficiently. Using the mobile flow, you can also adjust the suction settings with your mobile phone.
When choosing a hands-free breast pump, consider its different features. Battery life, suction power, noise level, and portability are standard features most moms consider when purchasing a breast pump. Pumps with adjustable settings allow users to customize the pumping experience and ensure comfort. Some models offer app connectivity, allowing moms to monitor their pumping sessions and track milk production.
Benefits of Using Hands-Free Breast Pumps
Using a hands-free breast pump has many benefits beyond convenience and mobility. It gives the user more control over their time, provides comfort, and maintains dignity. Hands-free pumps are a valuable tool that every breastfeeding mother should explore.
Convienence and mobility
Hands-free breast pumps allow pumping moms to pump wherever they want, and while doing any activity they need to do. This increased mobility means they can pump while working or performing household chores without being stuck to a pump attached to a wall.
Comfort
Many hands-free breast pumps have soft, flexible breast shields that minimize scratching or pinching. Most hands-free breast pumps also have customizable suction settings, making the pumping experience much more pleasant.
Discretion
Hands-free breast pumps are compact and can be worn under clothing or placed directly into your bra. This discretion allows the user to pump in public places without anyone knowing. The collection devices are simple to slip into your bra without removing clothing.
Maintains milk supply
Regular pumping that efficiently empties breast milk is essential for maintaining a steady supply. The ability to pump anywhere means you won't have to skip sessions or wait a long time between pumping sessions. Emptying your breast of milk signals your body to produce more, increasing your chances of breastfeeding success.
Ergonomic and functional design
Traditional breast pumps require the user to hold the pump in place on breasts, causing strain on their back, arms, and shoulders. Hands-free breast pumps allow moms a more natural and relaxing way to pump milk without holding onto anything.
Time-saving
Hands-free breast pumps free up extra time for busy moms. Pumping while working on the laptop or helping another child with homework means additional time for mom. One of the most significant benefits is being able to multitask. Hands-free breast pumps give pumping moms a way to have a healthy life balance.
How to Choose the Best Hands-Free Pump
Choosing the best hands-free pump is critical to ensuring the best pumping experience. With the growing number of manufacturers, the options are expanding. So, how do you find that perfect fit?
Assessing your needs
First, think about your needs when pumping. Consider when you plan to pump. Are you a working mom returning to the workforce who might need to pump multiple times during the day? If so, consider having a pump that has a long battery life. You may be on a strict budget, and affordability is a top priority. Does having an adequate milk supply weigh heavy on your mind? Then, a pump with enough suction power may be an important feature.
Take your time and think about what is most important to you. Write down a list of your top priorities and your nice-to-haves. Pumping success will be easier when you know what is essential to you. Read reviews from other moms who have tried a model that you might be considering. Their input will help you weigh out the pros and cons of each model.
Features to look for
When searching for a hands-free breast pump, you want to make sure that it has certain key features. Look for breast pumps that have these key features:
- Battery life: You don't want to worry about how long you can go before recharging your pump. Check how many pumping sessions you can get or how long the pump's battery will last. Then, narrow down your selection based on how often you think you will use it.
- Suction power: How intense is the sucking on the machine? Everyone has a different perception of pain. Some women may feel certain pumps hurt and are too powerful. In comparison, others may not be bothered by a strong suction. The suction levels should be between 220 to 350 mmHg. Most importantly, you should be able to adjust this level as you see fit.
- Noise level: Not all breast pumps are equal in terms of quietness. Most moms want a pump with a motor that doesn't cause a head-turning roar. Look at reviews online or directly on the manufacturer's website to see what other users say about the pump's loudness.
- Compactness and portability: Consider when and where you will use your pump. Can the hands-free pump fit discretely in a bag? Will there be any tubing or cords that might be noticeable?
- Ease of cleaning: Make sure your pump has easy-to-clean parts. A pump with parts that are easy to take apart, clean, and put back together can save a significant amount of time. Make sure that you can easily clean the breast pump parts with a brush. It may also be helpful to note if the pieces are dishwasher safe. Your pump must be cleaned thoroughly so harmful bacteria don't get passed to your baby.
- Ability to connect to an app: If technology is important, ensure your pump can connect to a smartphone app. As technology continues to advance, some hands-free breast pumps can connect to an app and allow you to track things like how much milk you pumped. Some can even remember your favorite settings or will enable you to adjust the suction level.
Make an informed decision
You know you want to succeed when you pump, so making an informed decision may take some research. Breast pumps are typically non-returnable because some of the breast pump parts may contain infectious organisms that can be passed to another user if resold.
If you need more help deciding, even after thorough research, contact a healthcare provider for additional assistance. A lactation consultant is a trained specialist who can help with breastfeeding support. Lactation consultants work in hospitals and birthing centers; some even practice independently. Check with your pediatrician or OBGYN to see if they have anyone they would recommend.
Tips for Using Hands-free Breast Pumps Effectively
Understanding basic principles, such as maintaining your pump, maximizing milk production, and fitting pumping into your busy schedule, can help you get the most out of your hands-free breast pump. Once you grasp the basics, hands-free pumping will be more convenient and efficient.
Proper maintenance and usage
Think of pumping like making a meal for someone. Hand hygiene is a top priority, so always wash your hands first. A nursing bra isn't a must-have, but Momcozy has an affordable selection.
Always check the manufacturer's instructions before using your pump. Clean and sterilize the parts even before the first use. Wash pieces in hot, soapy water and rinse well after using. You can sterilize the pieces by boiling them in water for about 20 minutes. Let the pieces air dry before reassembling. Remember to clean the pieces after each pumping session as well.
Try out a couple of flange sizes before sticking with one. Most pumps have multiple breast pump flange sizes because not all breasts are the same. Test out the suction levels and adjust so that you feel comfortable and there isn't any hard pinching.
Optimizing milk supply
Your time is valuable, and each drop of that liquid gold is like winning a prize. To get the most milk using a breast pump with each session, try the following:
- Pump regularly: Start by creating a breast pumping schedule that works around your needs and sticking to it. The more you empty your breasts, the more milk they will produce. Try not to skip sessions, either. Skipping a session of pumping is like telling your body you don't need as much milk.
- Keep extra supplies: If you are pumping in a place that is not your norm, pack extra supplies in your bag. Depending on what kind of pump you get, extra supplies might include milk collection containers or bags, an additional charging cable or batteries, or cleaning products.
- Hydration is important: Increasing your water intake doesn't necessarily affect how much breast milk you produce. Hydration is important because it's essential for life and what keeps you going physically.
- Gently massage your breasts: Try gently massaging and compressing your breasts to help remove more milk. This massaging can be done before, during, and after pumping and can help the pump to be more effective at emptying milk.
- Get in the zone: Help your body relax and enter the let-down phase. Try thinking about your baby, smelling their blanket or clothes, and being distraction-free. As you do, your brain releases oxytocin, which causes the milk ducts to release the milk, also known as let-down.
Nurse's Perspective
As a registered nurse and previous breast-pumping mom, I cannot stress enough how helpful these hands-free pumps are for any mom. Here's my personal and professional take on this technology.
Enhances mom's health and well-being
A new baby can be stressful. Around-the-clock feedings mean lack of sleep, other children in the home, building household chores, and the need to return to work can all seriously impact a mom's health. Instead of the mom enjoying their time with the new baby, they feel stressed. Stress can have a general impact on their overall health.
Stress can also impact breast milk. In response to stress, your body produces less amounts of oxytocin. Oxytocin is the hormone that allows the milk to come out of the mom's breast ducts. If the milk sits in the ducts because it wasn't ejected adequately, the body thinks it doesn't need to produce as much milk.
Being able to pump on the go without being bound to a machine plugging into the wall is a huge stress reliever. Now, the mom has more time to do those household chores or care for her other children. The extra discretion these hands-free pumps offer also means the mom doesn't have to worry about where she will pump. Returning to work has never been easier with these devices!
Decreases physical strain
Before hands-free breast pumps, moms had to sit in one position and hold onto the milk collection device. While they might not be obviously heavy, your arms and back begin to ache over time. Any movement would often mean you lose suction from the phalanges moving out of proper placement. Hands-free pumps were designed with ergonomics in mind. They allow the mom to maintain proper posture and significantly relieve strain.
Promotes efficient milk expression
Frequent breast emptying is crucial for maintaining the supply of milk. The ability to pump anywhere discreetly means better success with pumping. Pumping success means you get to provide the best nourishment for your baby.
Mastitis, or infection of the milk ducts from improper emptying of milk, is a common problem for breastfeeding moms. Consistent pumping is a great way to help prevent this painful complication by regularly emptying the breastmilk.
Let's Wrap This Up
Hands-free breast pumps offer numerous benefits, making them a valuable tool for busy moms. They provide convenience, increase mobility, and promote comfort, making the pumping experience more efficient and enjoyable. Gone are the days when breastfeeding moms are stuck to a pump that plugs into an outlet on the wall.
Investing in a hands-free breast pump can significantly improve the quality of life of breastfeeding moms. These devices offer long-term benefits like increased milk production, stress reduction, and the ability to multitask, making the investment completely worth it. By incorporating hands-free pumping into your routine, you can enjoy all the benefits these devices offer while maintaining your busy lifestyle.
