Breast pump information

Pumping is breastfeeding. Pumping is often part of a family’s lactation journey, whether it is temporary or long term. Sometimes pumping is planned prior to baby’s arrival, and sometimes it is introduced when facing challenges such as prematurity or NICU stays, difficulty latching, supply challenges, etc. The pump you use does matter and is dependent on your feeding goals and particular situation. IBCLCs are trained and experienced in helping you choose the right kind of pump for you and help you with a plan to make sure the pump you are using, and the way in which you are pumping are helping you meet your feeding goals. Many private IBCLCs offer sessions specific to pumping.

When should i purchase a pump?

You don’t need to buy a pump before your baby is born unless you plan to pump or anticipate medical challenges requiring immediate pumping after birth. There are various types of pumps, each with pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your and your baby’s needs. Since pumps are easily available in Edmonton and online, you can wait to invest in one that suits your situation and goals. This approach can help you avoid unnecessary costs and hassles from purchasing the wrong type of pump.

types of pumps

Passive milk collectors

Good for occasional pumping. Not recommended as a primary pump if you have breastfeeding challenges.
Pros: Easy to clean, low cost
Cons: Misuse can lead to problems with oversupply or removing milk available to baby at the breast.

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Manual Hand pumps

Good for occasional pumping. Some people find them very effective and simple to use. Not recommended as a primary pump if you have breastfeeding challenges.
Pros: Easy to clean, low cost, portable, small size, no power required
Cons: May not be suitable to your situation if you require an electric pump. Requires hand strength.

Electric pumps (purchased)

Come in single and double options. Some plug in and some have rechargeable batteries. Variety of options and features depending on brand and price point. Can be used for frequent pumping.
Pros: Better for scenarios where baby is not latching well and you want to establish a good milk supply, can be made hands free with a pumping bra, more variety of suction patterns than a manual pump.
Cons: high price, difficulty to compare models when purchasing, some people respond better to some pumps than others, cannot be shared between users.

Wearable Portable pumps

Newer model of pump that appeals to people for its portability and hands-free features. The increase in convenience results in a smaller motor which may impact the strength of suction. Good for intermittent pumping when you have a latching baby. May not be best as a primary pump for long term pumping, especially if baby is unable to latch in the early days and weeks.
Pros: hands-free
Cons: might not be suitable as a primary pump when establishing milk supply by pumping, may be difficult to get appropriate fit or stay centred on the nipple.

Breast pump rentals

Hospital-grade electric pumps are specially designed to bring in and maintain a parent’s milk supply. They can be sanitized and used by more than one person.

These are pumps for parents who have not yet established a milk supply and/or whose baby is less than about 8 weeks old.

If this is your situation, you will probably need to rent a hospital-grade electric double pump:

Lactating parents of babies who:

  • are premature
  • are too sick to nurse
  • have oral restrictions (tongue and/or lip tie aka ankyloglossia)
  • have physical anomalies (like a cleft palate) which may prevent breastfeeding
  • are having difficulties nursing for other reasons

Parents who:

  • are exclusively pumping
  • have had breast surgery
  • have medical conditions (like untreated low thyroid levels, anemia, etc) which may make it difficult to produce a full milk supply
  • are relactating or inducing lactation for an adopted baby
  • are having difficulties nursing for other reason

Where to rent breast pumps in edmonton & area

Hospital-grade breast pump rentals are readily available in Edmonton & area. These pumps have larger and stronger motors and are designed for repeated use. Hospital-grade pumps are recommended when you want to build or increase your milk supply, especially when baby is unable to feed well directly at the breast or chest. 

YEG Breastfeeding & Infant Feeding supplies

Online store by lactation consultant Julia Mio, IBCLC.
Provides pump rental and other feeding supplies.
Can provide pump troubleshooting, flange fitting, and overall lactation support. Delivery & local pick up options.

Baby Experts

Pump rental service provided by lactation company Baby Experts. Can provide pump troubleshooting, flange fitting, and overall lactation support. Guaranteed availability. Delivery & local pick up options.
Two options of hospital-grade pumps, plus other feeding and lactation supplies available.

Little Nursing Company - Edmonton Breastfeeding

Little Nursing Company

Pump rental service provided by lactation company Little Nursing Co.
Can provide pump troubleshooting, flange fitting, and overall lactation support. Delivery & local pick up options.

your local pharmacy

Many pharmacies offer breast pump rentals, however sometimes stock is limited and the staff may not be able to troubleshoot or provide flange fitting and other breastfeeding support. Call first to ensure availability at your chosen pharmacy.