Disclosure: Lansinoh provided me with several products for the purpose of this review. I was not told what to say or how to say it. All opinions are from my own personal experience.
Without writing too much about breastfeeding, let me just say, if you decide it’s the right thing for you and your baby, then you know how much work it is.
It’s wonderful and challenging all at the same time.
I’m breastfeeding my third baby right now, but I also have a 4-year-old and an 18-month-old, making this go around the hardest.
It’s mainly because my 18-month-old is so unpredictable. It’s tough to keep eyes on him constantly while feeding my 7 week old.
However, I am doing it.
I don’t know how, but I’m nursing and both expressing breast milk when I can, so other people can help feed the baby.
If I can share a few tips for moms who use breast pumps I would say, definitely make sure your flanges are a good fit (pumping should not be painful I’ve learned), and invest in a handsfree pumping bra. I feel liberated wearing mine and love having the freedom to do other things. It makes the time go by much quicker!
Also, be sure to choose a pump that travels well, meaning it can hold batteries in case you need to pump where there are no outlets, or pick a pump that has a car adapter.
This particular pump I had a chance to review holds batteries, which is awesome in the event you lose power.
I worried going from breast to bottle this early would confuse my son, but so far so good. I nurse whenever I can and pump breast milk while he naps. That way if I’m tied up with my other kids someone else can feed the baby or I can feed him on the go.
Helping me pump breast milk is the Lansinoh Signature Pro Double Electric Breast Pump. This little machine packs a lot of punch and has me finished expressing milk in 15-20 minutes.
My favorite part about the pump is the LCD screen that displays a timer. It’s so helpful to see how long you’ve been pumping. Lord knows I never have a clue what time it is! The Signature Pro is the only pump out there with three customizable pumping styles, helping you to maximize your milk.
A really cool feature that makes it less work for moms is that the machine mimics a baby’s feeding pattern. It starts out fast for two minutes, then slows for the let down. I’ve been using this breast pump for about a month now and I’m happy with the comfort of it and all that came with it.
All standard parts, like flanges (size 25mm) and storage containers, are of course included. But there’s also a carry tote, a sample of Lanolin, some breast milk storage bags and 2 5oz Lansinoh mOmma® Bottles.
My second child was in love with the original mOmma bottles. After trying four different brands these were the ones he took to right away.
While I love these bottles, they’ve also been revamped a bit. The shape of the bottle is different. Going from round like a breast, to a standard looking bottle. Also, these new bottles have clearer markings detailing the ounce and milliliter amount.
The bottles are meant for breastfed babies specifically, making it easy for them to switch between breast and bottle.
I didn’t start using these until my son was about three weeks old, as he was in the NICU right after he was born and just about every bottle seemed too fast for him at the time.
The lactation consultants I worked with told me to wait until his mouth got bigger and once he established breastfeeding. At 7 weeks old, he is successful on all levels and I couldn’t be happier.
Some of the bottle features:
- Enables baby to use feeding actions learned at the breast
- Air Ventilation System (AVS™) reduces intake of gas, a potential cause of colic or spit up
- Clinically proven to reduce nipple preference in established breastfed babies
- NaturalWave™ Nipple is 100% silicone, soft, flexible and designed for optimal compression
I’ve talked more about these nipples in a past post, click here to read more.
Lansinoh’s new Pump-Store-Feed system allows you to pump directly into bottles and attach the nipple for immediate use or seal to store until needed. This feature has really been helpful as I’m always in a hurry.
Between all of my children I’ve used several brands for breast pumps and this one has been the easiest to use. It’s also been the most comfortable. The flanges have this nice soft cushion surrounding the rim that touches your breast. It’s way better than feeling hard plastic against your skin.
The biggest time saver of all has been using the Lansinoh/Simple Wishes Hands-free Bra. This bra is ah-mazing! I now have two because I just cannot go one pumping session without wearing it.
This bra allows you to multitask and do other things while pumping. I’ve been able to eat breakfast, type this post and play with my children. The bra adjusts for an ideal fit over time. The four-way layering support system also maintains a tight seal while pumping. It’s available in XS to L or L-Plus.
Do you have any tips for moms who breastfeed or pump?
Thanks for sharing. There’s nothing more vital than looking after our precious ones.