BTDT moms, Renting vs. buying a breast pump....

My friend recommended renting a hospital grade pump as she felt she was able to pump faster and more efficiently then using the pump she has recieved at her shower. I'll add that she had some physical issues that caused her difficulty with her milk supply, which is why she tried the hospital-grade pump.

I plan to BF exclusively for the first 3 months. I'll return to work in September, but want to build up a supply of bottles of breast milk in case I am unable to get home to nurse.

Has anyone had experience with both?

Amy

Re: BTDT moms, Renting vs. buying a breast pump....

My SIL rented one from the hospital and then ended up buying one (Medela Pump In Style Advance) and she felt that the hopsital one was a lot better.

Re: BTDT moms, Renting vs. buying a breast pump....

I rented a hospital grade pump for 8 months and I loved it. It was a medela symphony! It was really great and I would rent over buying one.

Message edited 1/7/2007 1:44:38 PM.

Re: BTDT moms, Renting vs. buying a breast pump....

It all depends on your needs. A rental pump is needed for low supply, engorgement and some BF issues. it is the pump you should use in the first few weeks if you are having BF issues.

As a working mom you will need a PIS/PISA because you will need to pump while at work. You cannot carry a rental pump back and forth easily- they weight a ton.

So the pumps have different uses. I needed my rental pump- a Medela Classic which I swear by - for the first 4 months then my PISA was perfectly fine.

Re: BTDT moms, Renting vs. buying a breast pump....

I bought the Medela Pump In Style Advance and it's great. i pump once a day at work and I get all the milk I need for the day in 15-20 minutes. I never rented so I cant compare, but it worked great for me.

Re: BTDT moms, Renting vs. buying a breast pump....

I rented the Medela Symphony and loved it. However, if you are eventually going to be pumping away from home it's fairly heavy and bulky. I would rent to build up my supply and get some milk stored and then purchase one for work. I would recommend medela.