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Medela Breast Pump Overview
Bottle, breast, or both?
It’s a controversial topic and only you will know what's best for you and your family once baby arrives and you give it a try. So, where do you start your research about pumping?
Right here is a great place to start!
Purchasing a breast pump can require a lot of research [along with a car seat, stroller, and all the other gear] so we want to help you decide which one is best for you before you buy. We have individual product reviews on our Learning Centre that are full of information about many Medela pumps—we’ve linked them below for your convenience. Today, we are going to take things one step further and break each Medela pump down for you in one quick and convenient article.
Let's start with a handful of terms that you may find confusing when reading multiple product listings...
It’s a controversial topic and only you will know what's best for you and your family once baby arrives and you give it a try. So, where do you start your research about pumping?
Right here is a great place to start!
The Medela Family
We want to make sure that you are armed with everything you need to know about breast pumps and how to choose the right one to complement your breastfeeding journey. Today we are breaking down everything you need to know about Medela Breast Pumps—patience and persistence sold separately.Purchasing a breast pump can require a lot of research [along with a car seat, stroller, and all the other gear] so we want to help you decide which one is best for you before you buy. We have individual product reviews on our Learning Centre that are full of information about many Medela pumps—we’ve linked them below for your convenience. Today, we are going to take things one step further and break each Medela pump down for you in one quick and convenient article.
Let's start with a handful of terms that you may find confusing when reading multiple product listings...
Pumping Glossary
- 2-Phase Expression Technology: a “two-speed” pumping process that emulates a baby’s natural suckling rhythms by switching from a fast to slow rhythm while the pump is operating.
- Closed Pumping System: Prevents milk overflowing and leaking into the pump mechanism and helps ensure your expressed milk travels through a hygienic route.
- Double Electric Pump: Designed for moms who pump several times a day, including pumpdependent moms.
- Single Manual Pump: Non-electric; ideal for traveling, occasional time away from your baby, or as a back-up to your usual double electric breast pump.
- MaxFlow Technology: Technology designed by Medela that generates a vacuum with micro-vibrations for increased milk flow and optimal performance
- Personal Fit Flex Breast Shields: efficient and comfortable breast shields that allow you to express 11.8% more milk per minute faster than traditional breast shields
MEET THE MEDELAS!
Silicone Breast Milk Collector
Pump Stats:
- Single pump
- Non-electric pump
- New Product
- Usage: Frequent/daily
- Price: $
Harmony Manual Breast Pump
Pump Stats:
- Single pump
- Non-electric pump
- Updated in 2020
- Usage: 5-10 sessions/month
- Price: $
Swing Breast Pump
Pump Stats:
- Single pump
- Electric pump
- Price: $$
Pump in Style
Pump Stats:
- Double pump
- Electric pump
- Updated in 2020, original launch 1996
- Usage: 3-5 sessions/week
- Price: $$$
To read our full, in-depth review of the Pump In Style, click here!
Freestyle Flex
Pump Stats:
- Double pump
- Electric Pump
- Smart Pump
- Updated in 2020, original launch 2008
- Usage: frequent, daily
- Price: $$$$
For our full review of the Freestyle Flex, check out our Medela Freestyle Flex Product Review!
Sonata Smart
Pump Stats:
- Double pump
- Electric Pump
- Smart Pump
- Launched in 2017
- Usage: frequent, daily
- Price: $$$$
When it launched in 2017, it was the quietest Medela pump on the market—but the new Freestyle Flex is just as quiet. The biggest difference between the Freestyle Flex and the Sonata is the size and shape – the Sonata is round and weighs about 2 lbs.
For an in-depth breakdown of the differences between the Freestyle Flex and Sonata Smart, check out this full comparison!
Symphony
Pump Stats:
- Double pump
- Electric Pump, Hospital Grade
- Smart Pump
- Usage: frequent/daily
- Price: not available for purchase, rental pump only
What do you think?
Once you’ve decided on a pump, you'll need to get fitted for a comfy nursing bra. Medela has an intimate apparel line, and many accessories, that will compliment your breastfeeding journey.Confused about how to choose? We've got an article just for that – check out Nursing Bra 101 to break down everything you need to know about the many stages of growth you will experience, along with our Related Content below that covers everything Medela!
Related Content
Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump Product Review
The redesigned Medela Freestyle Flex breast pump with maxFlow Technology is quiet, with a new look, and a variety of upgrades! Make pumping easier & more efficient with this double electric pump.
Medela Sonata vs. Freestyle Flex Breast Pumps
We're comparing two Medela Breast Pumps - the Sonata Smart, and the Freestyle Flex. Both are double-electric which we love for maintaining your supply and freedom with PersonalFit Flex breast shields.
Medela Pump in Style with maxFlow Breast Pump Review
The Medela Pump in Style breast pump with maxFlow Technology boasts an advanced motor with simple controls. We're sharing 3 things we love about this redesigned 1.18 lb. double electric breast pump.
How to Clean & Sanitize Your Breast Pump
Cleaning and sanitizing your breast pump and parts daily is essential for your newborn's well-being. In this article, we aim to make the process easier for you with our best tips and helpful products!
6 Must-Have Postpartum Recovery Essentials
Many consider the first 12-weeks after baby or, 4th trimester, to be the toughest phase for new parents. Today we highlight postpartum essentials that help with both physical recovery and soothing stress.
Nursing Bra 101
You don't need to be nursing to utilize the comfort and convenience of a nursing bra. In this article we're breaking down their comfort and style for every stage of the pre and postpartum journey.
Medela Freestyle Flex Breast Pump Product Review
The redesigned Medela Freestyle Flex breast pump with maxFlow Technology is quiet, with a new look, and a variety of upgrades! Make pumping easier & more efficient with this double electric pump.
Medela Sonata vs. Freestyle Flex Breast Pumps
We're comparing two Medela Breast Pumps - the Sonata Smart, and the Freestyle Flex. Both are double-electric which we love for maintaining your supply and freedom with PersonalFit Flex breast shields.
Medela Pump in Style with maxFlow Breast Pump Review
The Medela Pump in Style breast pump with maxFlow Technology boasts an advanced motor with simple controls. We're sharing 3 things we love about this redesigned 1.18 lb. double electric breast pump.
How to Clean & Sanitize Your Breast Pump
Cleaning and sanitizing your breast pump and parts daily is essential for your newborn's well-being. In this article, we aim to make the process easier for you with our best tips and helpful products!
Nursing Bra 101
You don't need to be nursing to utilize the comfort and convenience of a nursing bra. In this article we're breaking down their comfort and style for every stage of the pre and postpartum journey.
6 Must-Have Postpartum Recovery Essentials
Many consider the first 12-weeks after baby or, 4th trimester, to be the toughest phase for new parents. Today we highlight postpartum essentials that help with both physical recovery and soothing stress.