Is a Manual Breast Pump painful?
Medela Harmony
Manual Breast Pumps are often referred to as torture devices, but the truth is, not all of them cause discomfort.
In fact, many women prefer to use a manual breast pump over an electric breast pump, purely because they can set their own pace, and find their own comfort level.
Yes, some may be uncomfortable, but that’s mainly because they either lack proper suction, the breast shield itself is uncomfortable, or in some instances discomfort can be caused from engorgement (waiting too long to nurse or pump), or operator error.
The Manual Breast Pump is powered by you, and requires you to squeeze a lever or pump a piston to create suction. The speed at which you pump controls the vacuum and suction level. Slower squeezes draw harder on the breast, and if you haven’t yet achieved let down, can be painful.
Is a Manual Breast Pump right for you?
Lansinoh Manual
The Manual Breast Pump is great for mothers that occasionally need to pump, either because they’re engorged or because they’d like to have an extra bottle available for when Dad handles night feedings.
I also find that manual breast pumps make great traveling companions. No need for batteries, and no annoying cords to worry about. Plus they’re super quiet, lightweight, and portable. They’re also affordable. Prices can range from $20 to $60.
You can only pump one breast at a time with a manual breast pump, and some women have trouble emptying their breasts completely. Other women claim that they’re manual breast pump works better than their electric. I will admit, having the control in your hands is kind of nice, as opposed to an automatic electric breast pump, you are in charge of speed and vacuum. Some women like to pump one breast while their baby nurses off the other, and a manual breast pump works great for that, especially since it’s quieter than an electric, but you’d have to have one that can be operated with one hand.
If you’re planning to pump a lot, either because you’re going back to work, or your little one is having trouble latching on, a manual breast pump is NOT recommended. Also, if you’re trying to establish your milk supply, a manual breast pump is NOT recommended. If you fear that your milk output is low, or your milk supply is dropping, a manual breast pump is NOT recommended.
Philips AVENT BPA Free Manual
Manual Breast Pump Benefits:
- Super affordable, prices can range from $20 to $60 dollars.
- Lightweight and portable, great for traveling
- Quiet, not like some electric pumps
- You are the motor, therefore you can set your own pace, and find your own comfort level
- Minimal parts for cleanup and assembly
- Easy to operate, especially the ones that operate one-handed
- No batteries
- Nor cords or annoying tubing to worry about. You’re free to roam while you pump.
- Great relief for engorgement
- Gives you the ability to have a few extra bottles stored in the fridge for emergencies, or nights when Dad handles the feedings.
Manual Breast Pump Drawbacks:
- Hand-operated, therefore your hand can get tired and cramp if used frequently
- Some women have trouble emptying their breasts completely
- Not recommended for frequent pumping or for women with low milk supply issues
- Time consuming, mainly because you can only pump one breast at a time
Check out this list of some of the BEST Manual Breast Pumps on the market
Related Articles:
Is a Double Electric Breast Pump Right For You? – Are you returning to work full-time or even part-time? Are you trying to establish your milk supply?….Below is a list of some of the BEST Double Electric Breast Pumps available.
Is a Hospital Grade Breast Pump Right For You?– Is your baby having trouble nursing? Are you trying to establish your milk supply or struggling with a low milk supply? Are you planning on returning to work full time?
Is a Single Electric Breast Pump Right For You?– Is a single electric breast pump right for you? How often do you plan on pumping? Are you trying to establish your milk supply? Are you returning to work?