If you have a child on the way, you will want to secure a breast pump before the arrival of your newborn. That way, you can start using your it from day one, and you will have some time to look at and become familiar with it. When it comes to purchasing a breast pump, many health insurance plans will cover the cost or just provide you with a free one.

Style #1: Manual Breast Pump

The most basic style of breast pump is a manual breast pump that you operate by hand. These pumps are really small and tend to be inexpensive. With a manual device, to create the suction needed to pull the milk from your breasts, you will have to pull a trigger button or slide a cylinder button back and forth.

This type of device can be really time-consuming and labor-intensive to use. However, it can be nice to have with you when you are traveling. Manual pumps are most often used for occasional or short-term use. They are also good if you only plan to use it very irregularly and just want to have one on hand. They are not suitable for maintaining a milk supply.

Style #2: Battery Operated Breast Pump

Another option is a battery-operated breast pump. Like a manual pump, a battery-operated one is another small and portable option. They do not have powerful suction and are best used for people that only want to use it once a day or less and don't want to use a labor-intensive manual device. If you are trying to maintain a milk supply, this isn't the best option.

If you get one of these, you will want to invest in chargeable batteries so you can cut down on how many batteries you have to buy while using them.

Style #3: Electric Breast Pump

An electric pump needs to be plugged into a power outlet. Being plugged into a power outlet makes this option very strong. An electric pump has a lot of power behind it and thus has a lot of suction. If you are looking to maintain or increase your milk supply, this is the option you want to go with. They are easy and quick to use in comparison to other options. If you are a working mom, for example, and need to pump at work, this is a great option. The unit itself is larger, bulkier, and more expensive than the above options but works more efficiently if you need to pump regularly.

Manual and battery-operated breast pumps are best for once a day or less usage, where you can primarily breastfeed your child. An electric breast pump works best if you are trying to maintain a milk supply and need to pump multiple times a day.

Once you know what type of breast pump you want to purchase, reach out to your insurance company and see how the process of getting a free breast pump works. Try to get your breast pump before your baby arrives, so you can have some time to learn how to use it and you will not have to stress about this.

For more information about getting a free breast pump, contact your insurance provider

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