Motherhood is a special journey, but it comes with many choices. As a lactation consultant, I often get asked questions about breastfeeding. One question I hear more often these days is, “Should I use a wearable breast pump?”
Wearable breast pumps are becoming more common and are often featured on TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms. If you are breastfeeding and follow any online breastfeeding groups, chances are you’ve seen a lot of discussion about wearable pumps. They seem to be a popular and appealing choice for many.
When parents ask me whether wearable breast pumps are a good choice, I usually walk them through a simple list of pros and cons.
What are the benefits of wearable breast pumps?
More freedom to move.
Many parents choose wearable pumps because they allow you to move around freely. The biggest reason these pumps are popular is the ability to walk around and do other things while pumping. Your level of mobility will depend on the type and brand of pump, but not being stuck in one spot lets you do things like prepare meals, wash dishes, or take care of other tasks. This can help you stay on track with regular pumping sessions.
Privacy.
Wearable pumps are usually more private. For some families, this can be very helpful, especially if you need to pump in public or shared spaces.
Less noise.
These pumps tend to be quieter than the traditional wall pumps, which can make them more comfortable to use in different settings.
Easier to clean.
Wearable pumps are often easier to clean since they do not have the tubes that come with wall pumps. Their simpler design can save you time.
Helpful technology.
Many wearable pumps connect to smartphones. You can track how much milk you’ve pumped, how long you’ve pumped, and more. These features are helpful for parents who like to keep track of their progress with the help of technology.
What are the downsides of wearable breast pumps?
Cost.
Wearable pumps can be expensive, and not all of them are fully covered by insurance. This can make them a big investment.
Comfort.
No matter what kind of pump you use, it’s very important to have the right flange size. The flange is the cone-shaped part that fits over your nipple. A good fit helps with comfort and makes pumping more effective. You should not feel pain while pumping. Pain could mean the suction is too high or the flange doesn’t fit well. With wearable pumps, you can’t see your nipple inside the flange because the motor blocks the view. This can make it harder to notice if something isn’t right. Many moms see me after getting a wearable pump so I can help with flange sizing and fix discomfort.
Milk supply and suction.
Wearable pumps often have weaker suction compared to wall pumps. This may lead to the breast not being fully emptied, which can lower your milk supply over time. Depending on your goals, a wall pump might be a better choice. It’s a good idea to talk with a lactation consultant (ideally before the baby comes) so you can be set up for success.
Keeping it charged.
Since wearable pumps are cordless, you’ll need to make time to charge them. This can be another task to remember. After each pumping session, you’ll need to put the pump on the charger. Some wall pumps have battery options, but they can also be plugged into a wall if the battery runs low. Most wearable pumps don’t have that option—if the battery runs out, you can’t pump.
Taking a moment to pause.
Although being mobile is helpful, there’s sometimes pressure to always stay busy and productive. Using a wall pump can give you a chance to slow down, read a book, or simply relax. If you have the chance to hold your baby while pumping, it can help your body release the hormone oxytocin, which can support milk production. Plus, snuggling your baby is one of the sweetest parts of the day.
What are the benefits of wearable breast pumps for working moms?
Wearable pumps can be very helpful for moms returning to work. These pumps are easy to carry, don’t need to be held by hand, and offer privacy. Whether you’re in the office, working from home, in meetings, or on the move, wearable pumps can help you manage both your work and breastfeeding needs.
What are the downsides of wearable breast pumps for working moms?
If you rely only on a wearable pump, you might not fully empty your breasts. This can affect your milk supply. Working moms also need to make sure their pump is charged and that they have the charger with them. It’s important to ask questions like, “Did I bring the charger?” or “What happens if I forget it at home?”
Also, some working moms may experience soreness. While on maternity leave, the baby may have done most of the feeding with only light pumping. But once they return to work and pump more often, they might notice tenderness. With a wall pump, it’s easier to see if the flange is not in the right place. With a wearable, it’s harder to see, and moms may pump longer with a poor fit without realizing it.
What are the benefits of wearable pumps for new moms?
Wearable pumps can be a big help for first-time moms as they learn how to manage their new daily routines. These pumps make it easier to take care of the baby and do other things at the same time. Becoming a mom can be overwhelming, but wearable pumps may help ease the transition.
What are the downsides of wearable pumps for new moms?
The biggest concerns I hear from new moms are about comfort and maintaining milk supply. First-time moms may not know what normal pumping feels like or how to fix problems. Moms who already have experience with breastfeeding may already own a wall pump that can serve as a backup if the wearable pump causes issues.
Which breast pump is right for you?
After going through the pros and cons, it helps to ask yourself a few questions:
- What are your goals for feeding your baby?
- What is your overall plan for feeding?
- Will you only pump once in a while?
- Do you plan to pump often or full-time?
- How much time are you able to spend on pumping?
Then think about what matters most to you. For example, if keeping up your milk supply is your top concern, a wall pump might be a better choice.
It would be ideal to own both a wall pump and a wearable one, but that’s not always possible. The good news is that pump makers are listening to feedback and improving flange options for better comfort and milk removal. Until then, making a simple pros and cons list can help you think things through and choose what works best for your needs. And remember, if you need help, lactation consultants are always here to support you.