If you’re planning on breastfeeding your baby, and want to pump milk for those times when you can’t physically be with them, choosing your first breast pump can be a bit of an overwhelming experience.
Your options range from manual pumps to electric pumps and single pumps to double pumps, with every brand offering different features that claim to be the best.
But, in most cases, the right breast pump for new moms really depends on your daily routine.
Are you returning to work, exclusively pumping, or simply wanting some flexibility? A pump that works perfectly for one family may not fit another’s lifestyle.
Rather than focusing on features alone, it helps to think about how and when you’ll actually be pumping.
Start by looking at the main benefits of manual, electric and wearable pumps, and thinking about how they would fit your lifestyle.
If you’re unsure of what type of breast pump might work best for you, keep these basics in mind to help you choose a pump that works for your specific needs.
Manual Pumps: Best for Occasional Use and Travel
Manual pumps are simple, portable, and don’t require electricity or batteries.
They’re a great breast pump for new moms if you only expect to pump occasionally, whether that’s relieving engorgement, collecting milk for the occasional bottle, or having a backup pump for travel.
They’re also compact enough to keep in your diaper bag or car, so they’re there when you need them.
The downside is that all the pumping is done by hand. While that’s perfectly manageable for occasional sessions, it can become tiring if you’re pumping several times a day.
For most moms that plan on pumping regularly, a manual pump works best as a backup rather than their primary pump.
Electric Pumps: A Time-Saving Option for Regular Pumping
If you expect to pump frequently, an electric pump is usually the most practical choice.
The motor sits outside the bra, tubing connects to flanges, and the setup takes a minute or two.
For new moms who need predictable, repeatable output, a good electric pump is where most women start.
Single electric pumps express milk from one breast at a time, while double electric pumps allow you to pump both breasts simultaneously.
While that may not sound like a big difference at first, it can be a major time-saver to cut pumping time in half as you’re trying to meet the needs of your newborn.
If you’re returning to work, building a freezer stash, or regularly replacing feeds, a double electric pump is often worth the investment simply because it saves time.
The trade-off is that traditional electric pumps require a little more setup. You’ll need to assemble the parts, connect everything properly, and find a comfortable place to sit during your session.
Plan pumping sessions in advance, and try to pump at the same time each day to make the process quicker and easier.
Are Wearable Pumps Worth the Cost?
Wearable pumps have become increasingly popular because they fit inside your bra, allowing you to pump without being connected to an external motor and tubing.
For moms balancing work, older children, or busy schedules, that flexibility can be incredibly helpful.
Being able to move around while pumping often means you’re more likely to fit pumping sessions into your day.
That said, wearable pumps aren’t always the best choice during the first few weeks after birth.
When your milk supply is still being established, many lactation consultants recommend using a traditional electric or hospital-grade pump if you’re pumping regularly.
Once breastfeeding feels more established, many moms find wearable pumps much easier to incorporate into everyday life.
If you’re considering a wearable option, models like the eufy Wearable Breast Pump S2 Pro are designed to make pumping more convenient, with quieter operation, app connectivity, and fewer parts to clean afterward.
The flexibility to take a call, care for another child, or simply build up your milk supply while commuting to work can make the cost of a wearable pump well worth the investment for many moms.
Will Insurance Cover a Breast Pump in North America?
If you’re hoping to have insurance reimburse you for the cost of a breast pump, remember that coverage will depend on where you live and what type of health insurance you have.
In the United States, many insurance plans cover at least one breast pump for new moms, although the models available and upgrade options may vary from plan to plan.
In Canada, breast pump coverage is less common through provincial healthcare, but some extended health benefit plans may reimburse part or all of the cost.
Before buying a pump, check your coverage to see what’s included, whether you need to order through an approved supplier, and if replacement parts are covered as well.
In general, most insurance plans tend to cover standard double electric breast pumps.
Manual pumps and wearable pumps are less commonly covered by insurance, though some plans may provide partial payment for your desired pump, provided you pay any cost difference.
The First Few Weeks: Expect a Learning Curve when Pumping
One thing many new moms don’t expect is that pumping takes both time and practice.
Your first session may produce very little milk, and that’s completely normal. Milk output can vary depending on how recently your baby fed, your stress levels, your milk supply, and even the time of day.
It’s also important to remember that finding the right flange size is just as important as choosing the right pump.
A poor fit can make pumping uncomfortable and may reduce milk output.
If pumping continues to be painful or you’re worried about your supply, it’s worth speaking with a lactation consultant to ensure that your pump has a proper fit.
When you’re first starting to use a breast pump, keep in mind that frequent, shorter pumping sessions are often more effective during the early weeks than trying to pump for long periods all at once.
And, since your output will likely adjust itself in the early weeks, it can be handy to compare a few different breast pump models to see what upgrades you might need in the future.
Checking out a variety of pump options online, like the eufy breast pump collection, can give you an idea about the different options for fit, suction, charging, and cleanup details that may make your life easier.
There’s no single best breast pump for new moms, since every mom has different needs.
So, start by thinking about why and how much you’re going to be pumping.
Manual pumps are convenient for occasional use and their portability makes them a great option for travel.
Traditional electric pumps are a reliable choice for regular pumping, especially if you’re building or maintaining your milk supply.
Wearable pumps offer added flexibility for busy parents once breastfeeding is well established.
Instead of trying to find the perfect pump, think about your everyday routine and how pumping will fit into it.
Whether you decide on the latest electric pump model from the eufy baby collection or a simple dishwasher-safe manual pump, the goal should be to make your pumping routine as easy as possible.
Caring for a newborn is no easy task. But, when you choose the right breast pump, you can help make your busy life as a new mom a little more comfortable and manageable.