Open vs Closed System Breast Pumps

Your choice of breast pumps depends on many factors. And both open system and closed breast pumps have their sets of qualities, which you should consider before making any certain decisions. Your breast pump should provide you with a comfortable, easy and hassle-free experience.

You already know how valuable your breast milk is. It provides your baby with the essential strength and nutrients to grow fast and become stronger. Your breast pump will play a major role in this regard as it will help you express the milk. Knowing about the qualities of your breast pump will help you make an informed decision.

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Open vs Closed System Breast Pumps

Open System Breast Pumps:

When a breast pump has no barriers between the expressed milk and the pump, it is called an open system.

1.    There’s no division between the path of milk and the motor.

2.    It should only be used by one mom because it can transmit diseases and infections

3.    The regular exposure of the pump to the milk helps in the growth of bacteria and germs

4.    The milk can get contaminated

5.    They are difficult to clean

Closed System Breast Pumps:

When a breast pump has a barrier (separate compartments) between the expressed milk and pump, it is called a closed system.

1.    There is a separate container in the pump for the expressed milk.

2.    It can be used by multiple moms if required without the risk of transmitting any diseases

3.    The chances of any germs’ growth are thin

4.    Your milk can’t get contaminated

5.    They are easy to clean

You should know that the chances of transmitting any infections or risk of any contamination are thin with both of these devices.

Tips to increase milk supply

Every mom knows how important breastfeeding is for the baby. But many moms worry that they’re not expressing enough milk. Before you begin doubting your milk expression, you should get rid of a few doubts regarding the quantity of milk you can express. You should not worry if:

1.       Your baby is growing at a normal pace

2.       Your baby requires frequent nursing

3.       Your baby increases the frequency

4.       Your baby doesn’t nurse as much as it used to before

5.       Your baby drinks a  bottle of expressed milk right after nursing

6.       Your breasts aren’t leaking milk

7.       You don’t feel a let-down

8.       Your breasts seem softer

In any of the above-mentioned cases, you shouldn’t worry about the quantity of milk you’re expressing. But if the above scenarios don’t match your situation, then you should try to increase the milk supply.

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Tips to increase milk supply

Do’s:

·         Check if the baby is receiving the milk properly. Inefficient transferring of milk can decrease your milk supply.

·         Use both breasts for feeding the baby. Alternate between them during the sessions.

·         Increase the sessions of breastfeeding. The sessions should be of at least 10 minutes

·         Perform breast compression. It is especially effective with a sleepy baby or a newborn

·         Breastfeed frequently. The more you breastfeed, the higher milk supply you’ll have

·         Ensure that your baby’s properly latched on. Your body reacts better when the baby is properly latched on.

·         Use a breast pump. It stimulates the breasts and increases supply

·         Eat a nutritious diet and drink the necessary amount of water

Don’ts:

·         Don’t smoke. Smoking has adverse effects on your milk supply

·         Don’t breastfeed when under stress.

·         Don’t use a bottle or pacifier.

·         Don’t use any formula, solid or water when the baby is too young (< 6months)

·         Don’t skip any feeding session

Which Pump is Right for You?

There are many breast pumps available and so choosing the right one becomes a difficult task for any mom. While choosing a breast pump, you should keep a few things in mind before proceeding. You should consider the budget you have for the pump. There are a variety of pumps available according to the costs.

You should also consider your own requirements. Your choice will also depend on your situation. One pump might help a working mom more than a first-time mom. Keeping these things in mind will help you make an informed decision regarding your choice of breast pumps. The durability and portability of the devices are some other factors you’ll want to consider.

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Which Pump is Right for You?

Spectra S1 Plus:

·         Has a rechargeable battery

·         Comes with a night light for night pumping

·         Has hospital grade strength for efficiency

·         Has adjustable suction levels

Spectra S2 Plus:

·         Portable design with a handle on top

·         Easy to set up

·         Lightweight built (less than 4 lbs)

·         Comes with a night light

Medela Sonata:

·         Comes with many accessories

·         Doesn’t make any noise

·         Comes with a rechargeable battery

·         Connects with the MyMedela app

Medela Freestyle:

·         Lightweight and portable design

·         Has a built-in timer

·         Can last up to 3-hours on its battery

·         Perfect for moms who work outside the home

Lansinoh Smartpump:

·         Easy to clean

·         Three pumping styles and eight suction levels

·         Has a touch screen interface

·         Connects with the Lansinoh Baby App