Breast Pump Question

[hmp]

I need some help regarding breast pumps. My sister swears by the hospital grade pumps but they seem like they may be cumbersome when I return back to work and maybe a bit costly. A friend loaned me her Medela PIS pump and I was going to by all new parts for it for my use but now I have been reading how you should NOT use someone else pump. HELP!

Anyone have any thoughts/opinions/experience??

Thanks!

[banker16]

There is a recent thread (on page 2, started by nonobaddog) that has many great responses regarding breast pumps...

[ClaireNola]

I know some would not use someone else's pump, but if your friend is free of anything contagious spread via bm (e.g., HIV, Hep, etc) I would buy new parts and use it. I think with the PIS if you get a backflow (from pumping too much milk it can back up into the system although I've never had it happen to me) it can invade the system. I highly recommend the PIS, btw (and did on the other thread referenced).

[playitagainsam]

Okay, here's the scoop. PIS (and other non-hospital grade pumps) have an "open" system, which means that milk particles can (in theory) get into the motor, which can not be sterilized. Many companies advise that you NOT share pumps, based on the theory that it could pass on a virus (of course, shampoo bottles say "for external use only," too).

That having been said, viruses only live outside the body for so long. I purchased my PIS via ebay, with brand new parts. I can't sterilize the motor, but when I use it for the first time it will have been at least 6 months since its last use, so I'm not concerned.

It's a personal choice, and I would definately make sure that some time elapses between her last use and your first use.

Take care:
Jessica

[Athena]

I know lots of people that share the PIS and haven't had any issues but I personally couldn't do it. I bought my PIS brand new from Canada 5 years ago. I'm not sure if it's the same deal now but I saved a ton of money. It retailed for $250 Canadian dollars which was the same retail price in the US. Well, with the exchange rate back then, it actually only cost me $160 US dollars! I have no idea if that's still an option today and I don't even remember the website I bought from. (Sorry!)

[Ellie Mae]

I rented my pump last time, and just used all new external parts. This time, I am going to buy a Medela pump. I had an Evenflo with my second son, and even though it worked, it did not work like a good grade pump and it was not very efficient. If I had been new to BF, and trying to use that pump, I SURELY would have given up and used only formula. That thing was AWEFUL!!! (In my opinion)

I say, I would not worry about bacteria etc. as long as you are using new parts.

Good Luck!

Heather
9w0d

[PBW]

Here is my experience, just to add all that was said.

Immediatly after birth I have found renting the hospital grade pump the best. It is the most comfortable, fastest and efficient. It is also the best to help induce greater milk flow and production. Particularly useful if you have any problems in the initial weeks with nursing. It can rid engorgement and be used instead of nursing if your nipples are sore.

I then bought a pump. From Ameda, purelly yours. I love it and think it has some added benefits over the Medela.

I too would not use a friends unless it is a purelly yours and you buy your own tubing.. I believe there is risk of back flow unlike the Medela.

Good Luck

PBW

[hmp]

Thanks everyone, all this info really helps!