Insurance Pump Comparison: Choosing the Right Breast Pump

Whether you are choosing a breast pump through your insurance company or to purchase on your own, information is always welcome!  Choosing the right breast pump is so important because it can make the difference in how long you are able to or even choose to pump milk for your breastfed baby.  

Below is a comparison chart to help you with your selection.

As someone who has been in this industry since 1993, we have seen breast pumps and even breast pump companies come and go, but Spectra and Motif seem to be taking the lead.  Both companies have easy access to replacement parts including multiple breast flange sizes.  Both companies also offer compatible breast pump bottles and high quality breast milk storage bags as well.  Spectra also offers a multi-user breast pump for corporate lactation and birthing centers called the Spectra S3 Pro for under $900 which is much better than over a thousand for what was the previously only option in hospital grade breast pumps from Ameda and Medela.  Spectra also offer the only dual control breast pump (not compared above) called the Spectra Synergy Gold Breast Pump which has all the benefits of the Spectra S2 plus independent controls for each breast so you can help coax the lazy breast to increase output more easily. Now Spectra also offer the Spectra Synergy Gold Portable Breast Pump with rechargeable battery for extra convenience!

Due to the difficulty in getting breast pump parts, we do not currently recommend Evenflo, Hygeia or ARDO as your first choice. Due to the inferior motor and systems, we also do not recommend most Medela pumps. For a high quality breast pump with the strength of a good motor and easily obtainable parts, our top recommendations are the Motif Luna, Spectra S1, S2 and SG (Synergy Gold) for professional grade breast pumps and Spectra S3 Pro for Hospital Grade multi-user needs.  Check with your insurance company to get more information on how to obtain your breast pump and bookmark Lactation Connection for your breast pump parts needs as essential parts such as valves and backflow protectors as essential in the suction of your breast pump and must be replaced every 6-8 weeks for optimal performance.

Here's to making good choices!

Tanya