Why Choose a Hospital-Grade Breast Pump? Benefits and Drawbacks

Introduction

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices when it comes to breast pumps?

Being a new mother is filled with countless decisions, and selecting the right breast pump is undoubtedly one of them. With the sea of options out there, from manual to electric, portable to stationery, the choices can indeed be baffling.

Hospital-grade breast pumps often stand out as a top choice, but are they the right fit for everyone?

New moms must juggle the demands of baby care, work, and self-care, and thankfully, hospital-grade breast pumps can help make your life easier. But like all products, they come with their set of pros and cons.

Know more about breast pump: Why Working Moms Should Use a Breast Pump?

What is a Hospital-Grade Breast Pump?

A hospital-grade breast pump is a top-tier, powerful device specifically designed for mothers who need efficient and frequent milk expression. 

When we say "hospital-grade," we're talking about a pump that boasts superior suction strength and is built for durability. These pumps are often the first choice in medical settings for their unparalleled efficiency and hygiene features.

Comparing hospital-grade pumps with regular ones brings out some distinct differences:

While a regular pump might be sufficient for many mothers, the hospital-grade version is often recommended for specific situations such as mothers with premature infants or those facing challenges in milk production. 

Their enhanced performance allows for quicker, more efficient milk extraction, potentially reducing the time a mother spends pumping.

A study focusing on the effectiveness of hospital-grade pumps¹ found them particularly efficient.

Mothers who delivered preterm infants and used a hospital-grade breast pump, managed to establish full milk production within 14 days postpartum.

On average, these mothers produced 817 mL/d, with many exceeding the 700 mL/d mark, which is considered full milk production. The results are a clear indication of these types of pump's capability.

What Are the Benefits of Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps?

Superior Suction Power

Hospital-grade breast pumps are renowned for their unmatched suction power. This means mothers can express milk faster, making the pumping process efficient and saving valuable time.

This efficiency is no accident; it's a result of advanced technology incorporated into these devices. Engineered with precision, the pumps mimic the natural rhythm and intensity of a baby’s suckling, optimizing milk flow and reducing potential discomfort.

Enhanced Hygiene and Safety

Safety and cleanliness are of utmost importance when it comes to expressing and storing milk. Hospital-grade pumps are designed with these concerns at the forefront.

They typically feature a closed system, preventing milk from coming into contact with the pump's motor, thereby reducing the risk of contamination. In line with these safety standards, the Momcozy's V2 breast pump is also designed as a closed system, ensuring added hygiene for its users.

Additionally, multi-user breast pumps are constructed to be used by multiple mothers - each with their personalized kits. This feature is especially useful in healthcare settings or when pumps are rented, ensuring each mother's milk remains uncontaminated.

However, be careful because most pumps are only designed for one user.

Durability and Longevity

When investing in a breast pump, longevity matters. Hospital-grade pumps are built not only for performance but also for durability. With robust construction and high-quality materials, these pumps are designed to last, requiring minimal maintenance, even with frequent use.

Suitable for Special Situations

Every mother’s breastfeeding experience is unique and some face challenges that make milk expression more demanding.

Mothers with twins, for instance, benefit from the efficiency of hospital-grade pumps, allowing them to express larger volumes in shorter times.

Similarly, for mothers of premature babies or those who encounter difficulties in milk production, these pumps can be a valuable aid, ensuring they can provide adequate nutrition for their infants.

What Are the Drawbacks of Traditional Hospital-Grade Breast Pumps?

Size and Portability Issues

While hospital-grade breast pumps are lauded for their power and efficiency, they come with a distinct drawback: their size.

Traditional models tend to be bulkier than their regular counterparts. This can make them less convenient for mothers on the move, turning what should be a simple task into a logistical challenge.

Transporting them from one place to another or finding a suitable spot to store them at home can be cumbersome, making them less ideal for mothers seeking flexibility.

Higher Costs

Quality and performance often come at a price. Hospital-grade breast pumps, given their advanced features and superior build, are typically more expensive than regular pumps.

For mothers on a budget or those who might not need the high performance of a hospital-grade model, the cost can be a significant deterrent.

While some might argue that the benefits justify the expense, the initial investment is undoubtedly higher, which might not be feasible for every family.

Should You Rent or Share a Breast-Pump?

When considering whether to rent or share a breast pump, safety should be the primary concern.

According to the FDA², renting or sharing devices not intended for multiple users can pose significant risks.

Such actions might expose you and your baby to infections, as breast pumps can harbor infectious particles even if they appear clean.

Manual breast pumps and powered ones designed for a single user should strictly remain personal and not be rented or shared. 

Additionally, sharing might void the manufacturer's warranty, leaving you without support if issues arise.

If renting:

• Only use pumps designed for multiple users.
• Always use your personal accessories kit, which includes items like milk container, breast-shield, and tubing.
• Make sure the breast milk doesn't come in contact with any shared parts of the pump.

What Kind Of Breast Pump Should You Buy?

Choosing the right breast pump can make a significant difference in a mother's breastfeeding experience.

One primary consideration is whether to opt for a hospital-grade pump, which offers advanced features and robust performance. These pumps are renowned for their efficient milk extraction capabilities, allowing mothers to express milk swiftly and comfortably.

Historically, hospital-grade pumps were often associated with bulkiness, making them less ideal for on-the-go mothers. However, with the advent of technology and innovation in design, this narrative has shifted.

Modern advancements have made it possible to combine power with portability. For instance, products like Momcozy's V2 hands-free breast pump offers the powerful suction up to -288 (±5) mmHG, while being compact enough to fit in a purse.

This kind of innovation caters to the contemporary mother who seeks both efficiency and convenience.

In conclusion, when in the market for a breast pump, it's worthwhile to explore options that cater to both your efficiency needs and lifestyle. Modern breast pumps often bridge the gap between power and mobility, ensuring mothers don't have to compromise.

References:

1.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23360861/

2.https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-know-when-buying-or-using-breast-pump