If you are a breastfeeding mother, you may have wondered whether you should use a breast pump to express your milk. Breast pumps can be very helpful for various reasons, such as storing milk for later use, relieving engorgement, increasing your milk supply, or feeding your baby when you are away from home. But which type of breast pump should you choose? 

There are two main types of breast pumps: manual and electric. Manual pumps require you to squeeze a handle or a bulb to create suction, while electric pumps use a motor to do the work for you. Here are some of the benefits of using an electric breast pump over a manual one.

Time Savings

One of the biggest advantages of using an electric breast pump is that it can save you a lot of time. Electric pumps can draw milk more quickly and more efficiently than manual pumps, which can be tiring and time-consuming. Electric pumps also allow you to pump both breasts at the same time, which can cut your pumping time in half. This can be very convenient for busy mothers who need to pump regularly or on a daily basis.

Comfort and Control

Another benefit of using an electric breast pump is that it can offer more comfort and control over your pumping experience. Electric pumps have different settings that let you adjust the speed and suction level to suit your preference and comfort.

Some electric pumps also mimic the natural sucking patterns of babies, with short, quick sucks to stimulate the let-down reflex, followed by slower, deeper sucks to draw more milk. This can make pumping more comfortable and help you produce more milk.

Suitability for Different Situations

Electric breast pumps can also be more suitable for different situations than manual pumps. For example, if you have a preterm or low-birth-weight baby who is too weak to suckle, an electric pump can help you express enough milk to feed your baby. If you have twins or multiples, an electric pump can help you cope with the high demand for milk. If you have a low milk supply or need to increase your milk production, an electric pump can stimulate your breasts more effectively than a manual pump. If you are working or traveling, an electric pump can help you maintain your pumping schedule and store enough milk for your baby.

Easy to Clean and Sanitize

Electric breast pumps are also easy to clean and sanitize, which is important for preventing infections and keeping your milk safe for your baby. Electric pumps have fewer parts than manual pumps, which makes them easier to disassemble and wash. They may also come with microwavable steam bags and wipes that can help you sterilize the parts quickly and conveniently.

If you are considering an electric pump, contact a local health care service to learn more and to learn about Tricare breast pumps.