Mothers feel overwhelmed by breastfeeding equipment choices
23 posts across 6 communities in the last 30 days; 65% from r/breastfeeding.
“I (FTM) am a month out from my induction, and I have my first lactation consultation a week from today. The scheduling nurse recommended that I bring my pump to the consultation. The problem is that I don't have a complete pump setup. My SIL gave me two Spectra (S1 Plus and S2…”
“Help! I'm trying to find a nursing bra with fixed padding and not the removable cups. I cannot fathom wanting to deal with straightening out the removable cups once my baby is here, and I've never felt comfortable in a bra without fixed padding. Searching online yields a few but…”
“i have the spectra and the lansinoh hand pump which i love but i am over dealing with my spectra.. i have replaced all parts but for some reason i cant pump both boobs at the same time cause the suction is weak. i do maintenance so i was able to take it apart and see if anything…”
Expecting mothers are confused and stressed about selecting the right breast pump and bottles, especially with insurance coverage. They seek recommendations for affordable, practical options and are unsure about emergency formula supplies.
SOURCES (60)
“I still have my Spectra S2 from my last baby so this time I’m looking to get some wearables. I hardly pumped with my last baby because it was inconvenient and he wasn’t a fan of bottles, so we exclusively nursed. I have large (currently…”
“I'm currently pumping with a madela pump which is great but now I'm starting to go out and about more with LO now and feel it's a bit impractical on the go. I'm looking for an in bra pump for out and about however I'm not looking to spend an arm and a leg (my baby related spending has already a bit out of control 😅) Has anyone used any of the Amazon "dupes" to the well known brands or have any recommendations? submitted by /u/NaturalInside4135 [link] &#”
“I can order through 1naturalway or Aeroflow and my insurance will cover it I’m not sure which one to get or do. There’s different options on both sites. I’m trying to avoid portable since I’ve heard it can hurt your supply as a FTM but I also am not sure how true that is. If you have any advice please let me know! My family hasn’t really breastfed however I really want to and have been doing lots of learning but there’s a lot to know! Breast pump options submitted by /u/Flat_Ad6496 [”
“I (FTM) am a month out from my induction, and I have my first lactation consultation a week from today. The scheduling nurse recommended that I bring my pump to the consultation. The problem is that I don't have a complete pump setup. My SIL gave me two Spectra (S1 Plus and S2 Plus) machines and did not include the flanges or other little parts. It looks like I can buy kits, though. My questions: 1) The Spectra manual indicates the machine is for a single user. Any reason I can't use the”
“What are your recommandations for the best hands free pump? My baby is 8 months old and I’m looking for one that will work well for me when I go back to work in 3 months. I feel like I need one that has a very strong motor, as the hands free one I tried didn’t really work, whereas my hospital grade one works very well, but I can’t carry it around at work. Thanks! submitted by /u/bebechat2 [link] [comments]”
“I’ve been EBF my 12 week old twins, but also have been pumping almost everyday after feedings for about an average of let’s day 2 to 3 times a day. Right now i use an Evite breastpump that i got for free from my midwife. I feel the strong urge to buy a eufy s2 pro because i’ve been seeing and reading that it get’s a great output but i find it really expensive.. Do i need an expensive pump like that when i’m only using it a few times a day after feedings? Advice needed.. or just talk me out of it”
“How have you accommodated lactating mothers in the office? We have two currently and one is asking us to buy her a pump and all the accessories and a fridge just for her office. We’re talking about a grand. She’s also part time now. How have you accommodated or been accommodated. What is too much or too much to ask? submitted by /u/canstucky [link] [comments]”
“Hi! Asking here instead of pregnancy subs because presumably most of you have gone through labor! Im in a relatively crunchy middle class bubble where a lot of my friends have delivered with doulas, some at home. I 100% respect the profession and believe they are/ can be helpful. I almost dont even need reasons why they are helpful, there is a lot of evidence based research about it. However, I am still not convinced. I had a long post about the reasons (and they are good reasons), but ultimatel”
“Hi all - I am I going through insurance for a portable breast pump for when I return back to work after mat leave. I have the Specra (love it), but I don't want to lug it to work. I have heard glowing reviews about the Momcozy Air 1 Ultra-Slim Wearable Breast Pump. I have gone to a few wesbites to see what it would cost me to "upgrade" as it does not seem to fall under totally free, 100% covered through insurance. The cheapest I have found was $108 for the upgrade through Baby List”
“First time mom here & looking for any & all tips, tricks, or suggestions for breastfeeding on the go out of the house! At home I use the “my breast-friend cushion”, but obviously can’t bring that everywhere with me! What do you use / do for breast feeding support out of the house to make the feeds easy & stress free? Thanks! submitted by /u/krystin260 [link] [comments]”
“Hello! I am due in November and hope to breastfeed, I am currently sewing myself some nursing bras and have a question :) is it more convenient to have built in absorption pads in a nursing bra, or disk like ones you can insert/replace? I'm thinking built in ones would be more convenient, maybe I'd forget or lose the little discs when I'm in the thick of it. With a built in if I make a few bras it'll be easy to throw it in the wash This is the pattern I'd be modifying for an”
“Is it crazy to bring a breast flange to the hospital birth so the lactation consultant can review sizing? I just want to take advantage of my time with them. Edit: only editing to say the main priority is breastfeeding so I don’t want to bother them with just “one more thing” but I also self-sized my breast flange for my spectra pump and want to at least bring the flange to see if they think I did ok submitted by /u/FrontAccomplished919 [link] [comments]”
“Due in November and trying to get the pumping stuff sorted now while my brain is still functioning. I've been reading this sub for weeks and here's my list so far: - Wearable pump (still deciding) - Haakaa for the other side - Storage bags - Pumping bra - Bottle brush set - Cooler bag for daycare eventually I know I'm probably missing a bunch of stuff that seems obvious once you're actually doing it. Also open to pump suggestions, I've been looking at Spectra and some of the”
“hi folks! I’m a soon to be FTM! hoping to breastfeed to whatever extent I am able. I came across this company on IG and am intrigued but wonder if it’s gimmicky and how helpful it actually would be. any thought and input from moms who have pumped would be appreciated! they’re tubes to freeze milk instead of bags. https://milkdrunkclub.com/products/milkhaven-complete-reusable-breast-milk-storage-system?fbclid=PAVERFWAUtCapleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAmZkaWQWUPiNtz-7XNxli6HsEj1Isj-jS2iPB3NydGMGYXBwX2lkDz”
“Hello, I'm 24 weeks pregnant with my first and trying to decide what supplies to buy. I want to breastfeed if I can, but I also want my spouse to be able to bottle feed our baby. There was a child that was really important to me and when he was a baby I bottle fed him 5x a week and it was really special to me. I want my spouse to have that feeling and connection and after I asked they told me they would enjoy being able to feed our baby. I know so little about how this all works. It sounds l”
“Had a duckbill valve tear on me mid-session yesterday. No backup. Had to hand express the rest which was not fun. That was the push I needed to finally order extras of everything. Currently ordering: spare valves, extra flanges in my size, and more storage bags. submitted by /u/HokaiReda [link] [comments]”
“FTM looking for wearable breast pumps, what are people’s reviews and thoughts on the Relievoo S32 PRO2s? submitted by /u/RadishOwn3221 [link] [comments]”
“Help! I'm trying to find a nursing bra with fixed padding and not the removable cups. I cannot fathom wanting to deal with straightening out the removable cups once my baby is here, and I've never felt comfortable in a bra without fixed padding. Searching online yields a few but they're like $60 a piece and I know I'll want more than one. I guess worst case, I'm due in December so I'll be in thick tops for a while but still! I want to feel comfortable. Any tips or places”
“I havent given birth yet and plan on hybrid feeding with majority to breast milk. I have about a month to go but im wanting to get my duckies in a row. I am looking for recommendations on breast pumps. Preferably brands that accept insurance coverage. (USA) submitted by /u/Sage_Salal [link] [comments]”
“I used the medela shields that were given to me from the hospital, but we ended up ditching those pretty quickly for reasons I forgot since I’m 4 months PP now! My baby is mainly bottle fed, she never really latched directly to my breast. It was rare and only when she was a newborn. Now that she’s 19w, she has preferences. Used the lansinoh shields for about a week, but they were a bit too slow for her taste and she ended up being exhausted from working so hard for milk, but as of right now they”
“Has anyone ever used Milk Maven for international travel, or successfully traveled internationally with pumped breast milk? I’m taking a work trip from the U.S. to Canada and would like to bring the milk I pump while I’m in Canada back home to the U.S. I’ve shipped breast milk domestically while traveling for work before without any issues, but I’ve never checked it onto a plane or brought milk across an international border. Milk Maven (the service we get for free through my company, which is w”
“Has anyone used the same pump for two babies and had it last? I was just going to use the same one as it seems to be still working and just get new tubing as it has been 3 yrs since I used it or so. Not planning to pump until 6 weeks but we all know bf doesn’t always go like you plan it to so want to be prepared. submitted by /u/Practical_Action_438 [link] [comments]”
“I’m looking for suggestions of a good portable solution for a breastfeeding pillow to take outside the home with me. I have back issues due to hypermobility and some gut issues that didnt resolve after pregnancy and was recently in the hospital for pancreatitis. All that to say, a breastfeeding pillow has been an absolute must for me since day one in the hospital. I absolutely don’t know how anyone does it without one unless it really is just my advanced maternal age showing lol. I’ve been lucky”
“Are there any lactation consultants in this group that I could ask a question? submitted by /u/Successful_Ad_9212 [link] [comments]”
“i have the spectra and the lansinoh hand pump which i love but i am over dealing with my spectra.. i have replaced all parts but for some reason i cant pump both boobs at the same time cause the suction is weak. i do maintenance so i was able to take it apart and see if anything needed repairing but everything is fine.. i’m balling on a budget so please recommend some affordable ones 🥲 submitted by /u/Time_Clue_3250 [link] [comments]”
“So here’s what you need to buy (pump/backup pump/3 different sizes for your flanges until someone measures you properly/inserts/duckbills/monthly/membranes/storagebags/coolerbag/icepacks/nursingpads/pumpingbras/nipplecream/lecithin (because all of this has been giving me clogs)…probably forgot something) This is after 8mo. $900CAD and that doesn’t include the pump my insurance covered. It’s cheaper than formula but still 900$. I am wondering if Ive spent too much? submitted by /u/Don”
“I get this pump free with my insurance. This is my second baby and I already have a spectra and the Eufy Pro. Not sure if I even need another one but the Eufys were kinda big for portable, these seem really slim… Appreciate any thoughts!! submitted by /u/misteeve [link] [comments]”
“I am looking for suggestions for good quality nursing bras. Currently I am using a pack of bras from amazon. They’re okay but obviously low quality and don’t support me very well. I am wanting some nicer nursing bras for when I return to work/ out and about! Thanks in advance! submitted by /u/sso_Oaky [link] [comments]”
“Second time mom but first time breastfeeding mom. (Or at least I hope to be). Are the nursing bras really necessary? I’m plus size so I’m worried about finding good ones in my size but they’re also expensive, so if I don’t really need them, I was going to avoid getting them. If you have any recommendations for plus size nursing bras I will take those too! Also, what are your best tips and tricks? What’s something you wish you would’ve known starting out? I really want this to work because I know”
“I am EBF my 4 month old. I currently have a rechargeable Zomee pump that works well but takes a while to get quantity while pumping now that my supply has evened out (oh how I miss the overproduction days right now!) and I do have to sit uncomfortably with it while not doing much else. I’d rather invest in wearable pumps than more nursing bras for the pump to be more mobile. I have pretty bad ADHD and also manage a business from home full time while being a SAHM…. I need some good wearable pumps”
“Did anyone here get a pump present (like a push present but for breastfeeding) if so, when and what was it? submitted by /u/Economy-Cow-9847 [link] [comments]”
“I’m a FTM and I’m currently looking through all the breast pumps that my insurance will cover. I can get quite a few basic electric options for free, but I can also get some more “luxurious” options for under $200. So my question: Is it worth it to pay $150~ out of pocket for a heated/massaging electric pump? Or do these even really make a difference? I’m fine with paying the extra money if they really help with production and comfort, but not paying anything out of pocket is preferred if there’”
“I am returning to work and am looking for a handsfree good wireless pump. I’ve noticed momcozy is having a sale on their Wellness 1 and I am interested as heat helps my milk drop so much easier. Has anyone tried it? Or are their other Momcozy pumps uou recommend? submitted by /u/ConstantNurse [link] [comments]”
“Anyone know of a nursing bra that has good support, sewn in pads, and you don’t have to unclip to feed? Or a regular bra that works? I hate having to unclip and re clip to nurse and the removable pads drive my nuts. submitted by /u/No-Chipmunk-903 [link] [comments]”
“Hello! I am wondering where are yall finding nursing shirts or clothes to make it even possible to breastfeed in public or anywhere that is not home? I would like to find good quality shirts or dresses if anyone knows any? 🙏 submitted by /u/kitycatmeowmeow71 [link] [comments]”
“I am so confused. First time mom, due next month. I want to exclusively breastfeed for first month, then maybe start pumping? I don’t know??but I’m so confused because everyone says to bring one of the manual haaka things or a catcher thing to the hospital. Why would I need that??? What should I bring ? Just my boobs? And what about in the first couple of weeks? Why do people say they “catch their let down?” Doesn’t the baby feed on both sides??? So why would I catch the other side if he’s gonna”
“Breastfeeding was unsuccessful. I have a Spectra S1 with 19 hours on it. I'm not sure if I should keep and store it for baby #2 (assuming in 2-4years) or sell it. I'm in Canada so insurance doesn't provide breast pumps. submitted by /u/Feeling-Error-4884 [link] [comments]”
“I’m 5 weeks pp and usually nurse directly but wanting to start pumping to get some freezer stashes before going back to work. I have Zomee fit and I get only 1- m2oz total each session. I’ve heard good things about eufy and wondering if I should try them. I used my insurance to get my Zomee so I will have to pay out of pocket for eufy. Is eufy worth spending $200 out of pocket? Also I’m trying to get a wall pump and interested in Lansinoh Signature Pro. Any reviews/ opinions? submitted by”
“First time mom here! We're 5 minutes from the hospital and I was thinking I could pack pretty light, but have some stuff ready to grab if needed. I normally waaaaay overpack so I'm probably overthinking this lol submitted by /u/glassfunion [link] [comments]”
“I have gone so I am a first time mom and I have the spectra S2 pump and I am exclusively breast-feeding, but want to start pumping as well. I have pumped maybe about 4 to 5 times within the past week and I wanna start a routine. I wanna do both pumping and breast-feeding at the same time breast-feeding during the day and bottle feeding at night time. The pump I have was 100% covered by insurance, but I’m looking to have a hands-free one for when I go to my parents house so it’ll be a little easi”
“Hi everyone! I have a question about storing pumped milk and ai is not very helpful so far. I just started working again so pumping at work and storing milk and then bringing it home in the car is all new for me. The situation is this: I pumped milk and put this milk directly in the fridge at work. It’s been in the fridge for 3 hours. I have to take it with me to an appointment. It will be in the car with the ac on for 25 minutes. It will be in a cooling bag, but not with an ice pack or anything”
“Hi friends :) I wanted to see if anyone had a similar issue of struggling to find a good nursing bra? I was busty pre-baby and now I’m probably around a 38 E or F. I like my bodily everything bra for everyday - it’s a bit small but I’ve learned to kinda roll with it BUT I’d like to start jogging and there is zero support there. So bra recommendations, special shout out to any sports bra nursing recs! submitted by /u/Key-Engineering-3685 [link] [comments]”
“The title basically says what I’m looking for! I use the Auden nursing bras from target and I really like them, but feel like I have no lift or support. If I tighten the straps it rides up in the back. I don’t want to spend a ton of money on ones so any suggestions on the cheaper end would be great! submitted by /u/Purple_mamma24 [link] [comments]”
“Hi there, FTM mom here, just bought a Medela Solo electric breast pump. Didn't plan on buying it yet, but it was on clearance and I did get it for 79$ vs the full 150$ where I live. Seems like a decent pump. I plan on combo feeding, breastfeeding as much as I can and then pumping and bottle feeding as needed. My question is, would you recommend getting a second pump? Do I really need it? And what about the wearable pumps? Do you recommend also getting a pair of wearable pumps? I do plan on g”
“Every lactation consultant should just send us this video, i feel like i leaned more from this than any LC https://globalhealthmedia.org/video/breastfeeding-attachment/ submitted by /u/Prestigious_Jelly875 [link] [comments]”
“I plan to breastfeed but also want to be prepared to pump. I have a Medela hand pump from a friend and want to purchase a second pump as a backup/primary (who knows at this point?!) I’m trying to decide between the Spectra and the Eufy wearables. I have a 9 month maternity leave so I’m not in an office or anything and I’m not necessarily trying to build a major supply, just want my husband to be able to give a few bottles a week after breastfeeding is established and have a pump in case there ar”
“I have large breast 38H for context. I’m currently wearing the bravely brand but I need something more supportive and comfortable. Any recs? submitted by /u/Capital-Dot-9085 [link] [comments]”
“Which one to get Medela swing maxi hands free or freestyle mini submitted by /u/EducationGlad55 [link] [comments]”
“Hi, should I get manual one before giving birth or after? submitted by /u/Confident_Cow_6391 [link] [comments]”
“Any Tricare mommas have recommendations on where to get their breast pump from? I’ve seen a few websites advertised but I wasn’t sure if one is better than the other. submitted by /u/plainbananatoast [link] [comments]”
“i would love to get collection cups for my spectra that could fit my whole or at least most of my pump instead of having to pour multiple times/having milk leak out all over me when they overflow. i’ve tried the medela cups with my spectra and the suction was great but i wish they were bigger. does anybody know of any that hold more? i mainly nurse and pump 2-3x a day so i can donate to a friend. i typically get 20+oz a pump after nursing with the most i’ve gotten from one boob in one session be”
“Anyone have a rocking chair that they swear by? I am shopping around for a rocking chair for my baby’s nursery and I want one that is plenty comfortable for breastfeeding. Like arm support, butt support & back support. Thank you! submitted by /u/marbleblue-12 [link] [comments]”
“I had my baby shower this past weekend and was gifted two My Breast Friend pillows. Should I (1) keep both, (2) exchange one for a Boppy or (3) exchange one for a gift card or something else? submitted by /u/MistressofEvil1 [link] [comments]”
“**To note I live in Asia / outside of US where colostrum collecting is likely not the norm. So I’m currently 37w and have been going to weekly hospital checkups. I’ve been using an electric pump the last two weeks or so to start my supply and collect colostrum. Then I realized my hospital never really clarified or has a colostrum policy so I asked the staff there what their stance was— whether I could freeze it and bring it with me. To my surprise, the midwife said they don’t accept any milk tha”
“Hi all! I have two questions: 1) I am currently 32 weeks pregnant with our second. I exclusively breastfed our first (now 3yo) for 14 months and hope to do the same this time around. My main question is what pump parts can be reused vs need to be replaced? Pumps I have from my first: Willow Go* Motif Luna (Spectra competitor) Pumpables From my recollection, the valves are the main thing that loose suction over time, so I was going to replace those. Do the motors also lose power? Willow Go was my”
“Has anyone use either of these for their breast milk? submitted by /u/Ok_Employment1128 [link] [comments]”
“Hello! I’m going back to work soon and need help on how to efficiently pack for pumping. My job doesn’t have a fridge that I can put my pump parts in and milk in so I would need a cooler bag to store them in for about 8-10 hours. I would like to get a bag that I can use after I’m done breastfeeding/pumping so not a cooler bag that’s dedicated for pumping. How do other working moms pack for pumping when they return to work? I was thinking about getting a good quality cooler tote bag and putting s”
“Decision fatigue is real at 36 weeks lol I still have the Medela In Style from when my 7 yo was born (used at work 3x a day about 10 months- but is this too long ago for the motor??!) & the Medela Swing Maxi from when my 4 yo was born (used handful of times when away from baby, mainly nursed). I’m having trouble deciding on this last pump. I plan to nurse this baby as I nursed my first two for 14 months. At first I wanted to get a Spectra since I never tried but I’m also interested in the Mo”
“For those that pump(ed), what are some good options for medical grade pumps? I'm really loving the Spectra S1 for the portability, but I know there are SO many options out there. Personally, I don't want to purchase wearables that my insurance will cover. I'd prefer a heavy-duty sucker! submitted by /u/fucusgang [link] [comments]”
“I’m flying in November and will need to bring some frozen milk for my baby. I need recommendations for a good cooler/lunchbox to carry on, and information about flying with breast milk. Flight will be about 4 hours and the milk will be frozen, enough for 3 days of feeding a 13 month old. I’m buying a seat for my baby so this will be her carry on. I’m too scared to check it, I’d be sick if it was lost! TIA 🤗 submitted by /u/houdihandsome [link] [comments]”
