Last Updated on May 11, 2023
Are you looking for the best breast pump to induce lactation? If so, you’re in the right place. Finding the right breast pump is essential for successful milk production.
With a range of options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for your needs.
We’ve researched, talked with experts and tested a variety of pumps to help you find the best breast pump for inducing lactation. One excellent option is the Medela Symphony double electric breast pump. This is a lightweight and compact device that can be used to simulate the natural suckling action of a baby.
However, there are some more top-quality breast pumps available to induce lactation. Here, we’ll discuss the different types of pumps and their benefits so you can pick the one that’s right for you.
- Top 5 Best Breast Pump To Induce Lactation
- Comparison Chart Of The Best Breast Pump For Inducing Lactation
- What breast pump gets the most milk?
- Is it possible to induce lactation using a hands-free pump?
- Induced lactation pumping schedule
- How to increase milk supply with a pump?
- Why would you choose to induce lactation?
- What happens when you induce lactation?
- How long does it take to induce lactation by pumping?
- Should I keep pumping if no milk is coming out?
- What are the risks of inducing lactation?
- How to Induce Lactation: Tips and Tricks
- FAQs
- Wrapping Up
Top 5 Best Breast Pump To Induce Lactation
- Best for initiating and maintaining milk supply – Medela Symphony Hospital Grade
- Best for portable and compact design – BabyBuddha Portable and Compact
- Best for natural nursing technology – Spectra – S1 Plus Electric Breast Milk Pump
- Best for double pumping – Spectra – S2 Plus Electric Breast Milk Pump
- Best for tight budget – Bellababy Double Electric Breast Feeding Pumps
Comparison Chart Of The Best Breast Pump For Inducing Lactation
What breast pump gets the most milk?
If you’re trying to enhance your breast milk production, hospital-grade and double electric pumps like the Medela Symphony of Babybuddha Breast Pump would be ideal. They will supply additional suction for your breasts.
Any of them is ideal if you want to generate more milk for an adopted baby. Many hospitals use this same product with great success!
Ultimately, any of these pumps can be valuable when initiating lactation. It is imperative that you use the pump properly and ensure your flange size fits correctly for optimized results.
1. Medela Symphony Hospital Grade Breast Pump
Best for initiating and maintaining milk supply
- HOSPITAL GRADE: Helps initiate and maintain milk supply with Medela’s patented, research-based 2-Phase Expression Technology, designed to closely mimic a baby’s natural nursing rhythms and proven to express 18% more breast milk when double pumping
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN FEATURING OVERFLOW PROTECTION: The Symphony Breast Pump’s kit (sold separately) is independent from the pumping mechanism and protected from milk overflow by a specially designed membrane to create a closed system.Phthalate free
- EFFICIENT, COMFORTABLE, WHISPER-QUIET: Clinically proven to achieve faster milk ejection and flow when pumping at Maximum Comfort Vacuum for optimal efficiency; whisper-quiet operation ensures discretion during late night or early morning pumping
- REQUIRES MEDELA SYMPHONY DOUBLE PUMPING KIT FOR USE: Sold separately (model #67099); this kit includes all necessary components to get started, including tubes, valves, membranes, breast shields, and bottles
- Founded in 1961, Medela has long been recognized as an expert advocate of breastfeeding through its development of innovative, research-based breastpump technology. As a result, is the #1 breast pump brand in America and the most recommended by doctors, chosen first by moms, and used most in hospitals*
When looking for the best breast pump to induce lactation, the Medela Symphony Hospital Grade pump would be ideal.
Firstly, it helps achieve faster milk ejection and flow with its patented 2-Phase Expression Technology. So, you get 18% more milk when compared to other pumps.
Secondly, it comes with an innovative design featuring overflow protection, meaning that it won’t be any milk spillage.
On top of this, this Medela pump has a vacuum level of -30 mmHg to -270 mmHg which means its suction strength is efficient and comfortable. So, inducing lactation is relatively smooth with this pump.
Plus, it operates quietly, so you can use it anytime without worrying about disturbing your family.
However, we found it difficult to hold the suction cups in place as there was no pad to attach them. Overall, the Medela Symphony Hospital Grade pump is a great option for inducing lactation and its efficient design makes it worth the price.
We highly recommend this pump to anyone looking for a powerful and efficient breast pump that is capable of inducing milk production.
Video Review On Medela Symphony Breast Pump
Pros:
– The suction is so powerful and efficient that it can help induce lactation
– You will get more milk compared to other pumps
– The breast shields are smoother and more comfortable
– Overflow protection prevents milk from spilling
– The knob is easy to adjust and the pump operates quietly
Cons:
– The suction cups are not fixed in place so it can be a bit difficult to hold them in place.
– The pump kit needs to be purchased separately.
– The price can be a bit on the higher side.
Also read: Can you use a microwave to sterilize baby bottles
2. BabyBuddha Portable and Compact Breast Pump
Best for portable and compact design
- 1 Come with 2 pcs of milk storage bag adapters and 10 pcs of storage bag,moms can express to the milk storage bags directly by the adapters.
- Four modes and 9 levels of suction for choice,massage and stimulate breasts before pumping,comfortable and pain free.
- High definition Screen,display the working mode,suction level,time and battery status etc clearly.
- Sensitive touch panel,click by one finger to operate,easy and convenient.
- Lightweight and portable,2200mAh Li-ion battery built-in,good for travel.
BabyBuddha Portable and Compact breast pump is another top-quality pump for inducing lactation. Firstly, it comes with a compact design so that you can easily hang it around your neck while pumping.
Secondly, your hands are free with this hands-free electric pump. You don’t have to operate it manually, instead the machine does all the work for you. So, no need to hold the pump up against your chest as you express.
On top of this, it also comes with a powerful suction so that you can easily express larger amounts of milk in a shorter time. So, if you are inducing lactation, you can expect to get results within a short time.
We compared its suction power to spectra or motif luna. We found it stronger than them, and it is definitely a good choice if you want strong suction power.
However, we found Medela Symphony has a stronger suction power than BabyBuddha. You definitely get what you pay for.
Additionally, this Breast Pump also has an extra-quiet operating system that ensures you can pump discreetly and without disturbing your baby or anyone else in the room.
Plus, the hygienic design of this pump prevents the milk from flowing back and keeps it safe for consumption.
Moreover, it also features a comfort cushion that mimics the shape of your baby’s lip so that you don’t have to deal with sore nipples.
The trackball makes it easy to switch between stimulate and suction modes, meaning you don’t have to deal with complex settings.
Overall, this Breast Pump is a great choice if you are looking for an easy to use portable pump. Plus, it is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.
Pros:
– This pump is so versatile. It will empty you within 10min after you pair it with silicone flanges.
– You can customize the levels of suction and stimulation, so you get maximum comfort and efficiency.
– It is a great pump for inducing lactation as it has impressive suction power.
– The hygienic design keeps the expressed milk safe and secure.
– If you have pain or soreness with your nipples, the droplet setting of this pump makes it so comfortable and pain-free!
– Very quiet operating system allows for discreet and silent pumping.
Cons:
– We found that it took a long time to charge and the battery could not sustain more than a few sessions lasting 90 minutes altogether.
– The flanges that come with this pump are hard to clean and unnecessarily complicated; thankfully, it is compatible with Medela and Spectra parts, making customization easy.
3. Spectra – S1 Plus Electric Breast Milk Pump
Best for natural nursing technology
- Breastfeeding Essentials: Spectra S1 portable breast pump features comfortable suction pump levels that mimic natural breastfeeding as closely as possible
- Travel Baby Supplies: Portable and rechargeable electric breast pump with a compartment for a Spectra bottle; essential baby feeding supplies for on-the-go moms
- Single or Double Pumping: Use as a single electric breast pump or a double electric breast pump; for best results, use Spectra baby accessories
- Hygienic Spectra Pump: Spectra backflow protector creates a physical barrier between your milk and the pump motor, ensuring your breastfeeding supplies protect your milk; easy to clean and maintain
- Made For Moms, By Moms: We've committed our lives to providing the best breast pumps, accessories, education, baby supplies, breastfeeding essentials, and customer care that we can, supporting every mother with the beauty of parenthood
When looking for the best experience in breast milk pumping, Spectra is the solution. With its Natural Nursing Technology, you can rest assured that you will be inducing lactation as comfortably and naturally as possible.
This Spectra S1 electric breast pump is perfect for traveling moms, with its rechargeable back compartment that fits a Spectra bottle, making it ideal for on-the-go mothers.
You can use it as a single or double electric breast pump. Plus, it has different settings so you can easily adjust the suction pressure to your lactation needs.
It also has a hygienic backflow protector that creates a physical barrier between your milk and the pump’s motor, ensuring that your milk is secure during pumping.
Spectra has made this breast pump with moms in mind, providing the best breast pumps and accessories, education, and customer care to support every mother with their parenthood journey.
However, the suction power is not that high compared to Medela and BabyBuddha, but you can do your job.
The design is very comfortable and lightweight, allowing you to do multiple pumping sessions in one day.
This is definitely a great product for inducing lactation and producing enough milk for your baby!
Pros:
– Natural Nursing Technology for comfortable suction levels
– Portable and rechargeable; perfect for travel
– Quiet and discreet
– Digital screen gives you control to adjust suction pressure
– Gives more controls and options (over cycle, or speed, and suction strength)
Cons:
– The flanges seem slightly uncomfortable and are oversized.
4. Spectra – S2 Plus Electric Breast Milk Pump
Best for double pumping
- Breastfeeding Essentials: Spectra S2 portable breast pump features comfortable suction pump levels that mimic natural breastfeeding
- Personalized Breast Pump Settings: Adjust Spectra breast pump settings to fit your preference; adjustable two-phase cycling features expression and massage mode
- Single or Double Pumping: Use as a single electric breast pump or a double electric breast pump; for best results, use Spectra baby accessories
- BPA/DEHP Free: Spectra breast pumps and parts, baby accessories and breastfeeding supplies that come in contact with breast milk are BPA/DEHP free, keeping your baby safe
- Made For Moms, By Moms: We've committed our lives to providing the best breast pumps, accessories, education, breastfeeding essentials, and customer care that we can, supporting every mother with the beauty of parenthood
Spectra – S2 Plus is another great electric breast pump for inducing lactation. This portable breast pump has comfortable suction levels that mimic natural breastfeeding compared to other pumps on the market.
It also has adjustable two-phase cycling that features expression and massage modes, so you can customize it to fit your preference.
You can also use it as a single or double electric breast pump, meaning you can pump both breasts at once if you choose.
Furthermore, it comes with letdown mode so that you can simulate the baby’s natural suckling pattern, making it easier to initiate lactation.
It also allows you to customize your pumping experience completely due to its independent speed and suction controls. You can choose the low suction for massage mode or the higher suction for expression mode.
Overall, Spectra – S2 Plus is a great choice for moms who want to induce lactation and have an easier time breastfeeding. It’s also a great choice for moms who want to pump for their babies.
Pros:
– Portable and easy to use
– Comfortable suction levels that mimic natural breastfeeding
– Features adjustable two-phase cycling with expression and massage mode
– Single or double pumping option
– This pump is also super-quiet. It’s not whisper-quiet – it’s more like cat-purr-quiet
Cons:
– The collection kit is not up to the mark
– You can’t use it on the go as there is no option to run on batteries or car charger
5. Bellababy Double Electric Breast Feeding Pump
Best for tight budget
- 1 Come with 2 pcs of milk storage bag adapters and 10 pcs of storage bag,moms can express to the milk storage bags directly by the adapters.
- Four modes and 9 levels of suction for choice,massage and stimulate breasts before pumping,comfortable and pain free.
- High definition Screen,display the working mode,suction level,time and battery status etc clearly.
- Sensitive touch panel,click by one finger to operate,easy and convenient.
- Lightweight and portable,2200mAh Li-ion battery built-in,good for travel.
If you’re on a budget and looking for a more affordable option, try the Bellababy Double Electric Breast Feeding Pump.
This smooth, quiet, pain-free pump is made of BPA-free materials and comes with a powerful suction mode to get the most out of your pumping sessions.
The double electric pump features four suction modes and nine levels of power, so you can find the perfect combination for your needs.
It also has a sensitive touch panel, making it easy to use and operate with just one finger. And best of all, it comes with two milk storage bag adapters and 10 storage bags so you can express the bags directly.
The Bellababy Breast Feeding Pump is lightweight and portable, with a built-in 2200mAh Li-ion battery that’s perfect for traveling. Plus, it has a high-definition screen so you can easily check the working mode, suction level, time and battery status.
Overall, this breast pump is ideal for anyone who wants a budget-friendly, smooth and silent pumping experience. Plus, you can even use it as a double electric pump to express milk quickly and efficiently.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable breast pump that won’t break the bank, the Bellababy Double Electric Breast Feeding Pump is the perfect option.
Pros:
– Four suction modes, nine levels of power
– Sensitive touch panel
– Lightweight and portable
– High-definition screen
– Includes two milk storage bag adapters and 10 storage bags
Cons:
– It makes sound when pumped at the high suction power
– The suction can be too strong for some people.
– Battery life is not very long.
Is it possible to induce lactation using a hands-free pump?
Yes, it is possible to induce lactation using a hands-free pump. Electric pumps are the most efficient and can be used to express larger amounts of milk with less effort.
However, keep in mind that Inducing lactation is best achieved through frequent and consistent breast-emptying techniques such as breastfeeding, pumping or hand expressing.
Induced lactation pumping schedule
Inducing lactation is a process where a woman can produce milk, even if she has not recently given birth or is not currently breastfeeding.
When it comes to inducing lactation, there are various schedules you can follow. To ensure the best possible results, however, we recommend consulting with a professional and obtaining an individualized plan or routine tailored specifically to your needs.
Below I have provided a generalized pumping schedule for induced lactation.
– Start with hand expressing or manual pumping for a few minutes, known as “hitting,.” You usually won’t observe any drops during this process initially. But it will help stimulate the body to start producing milk. Do this for the first few days, about 10-12 times in a 24 hour period.
– After you see drops, pump for five minutes three times a day and gradually build up to ten minutes every four hours. Don’t forget to include at least one session of frequent pumping during the night!
– Once you get comfortable with this routine and feel your supply is going, increase pumping time to 15-20 minutes every two to three hours.
“The key to success with an induced lactation pumping is consistency. Aim for at least 8-10 pumping sessions a day, and don’t forget to stay well hydrated and nourished.”, says Katie Clark, a certified lactation educator.
Although inducing lactation takes patience and dedication, it can be done with the right plan and routine. So, hang in there and good luck!
Remember to always seek the advice of a certified lactation professional if you have any questions or concerns.
How to increase milk supply with a pump?
To get your breasts to make more milk, stimulate them by pumping frequently. For 48-72 hours, you should pump both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours.
Following that period of time, return to the regular schedule of pumping. Keep in mind, though – don’t go any longer than 30 minutes when you’re doing so!
In addition, you can also take some measures to spur milk production with a pump. These are:
– Ensure the flanges are correct sizes. Otherwise, your pump won’t be able to draw out the milk efficiently.
– Make sure the breast flanges fit snugly around your nipple without being too tight.
– Start the pump on the highest setting and then slowly reduce to a more comfortable level as your milk begins to flow.
– Massage your breasts during pumping to help increase milk production.
– Use let down mode on your pump where available.
– Nurse or pump on both sides for the same amount of time.
Why would you choose to induce lactation?
Inducing lactation is a natural and non-invasive way to establish breastfeeding. here are some amazing reasons for which you can start inducing lactation right now!
• Enjoy the bonding experience that only nursing provides.
• Make sure your baby has access to nutritious, disease-free milk that you can provide.
• Control over how much milk your baby consumes.
• Supportive to mothers who want to breastfeed but cannot produce sufficient milk naturally.
• Helpful in cases where the baby is adopted or born via a surrogate.
• Save money by not needing to buy formula milk.
• Reduce the risk of developing breast cancer or ovarian cancer in women who have a high genetic risk.
• Enhance the natural hormone production in the body, which can improve overall physical and mental health.
• Improve maternal-infant bonding through skin-to-skin contact.
• Reduce stress levels in both the mother and the baby.
• Promote a feeling of comfort and security in the baby.
• Avoid potential issues related to bottle feeding, such as nipple confusion or an oversupply of milk.
What happens when you induce lactation?
As stated above, induced lactation is a unique process that permits women to generate breastmilk despite not being recently pregnant or giving birth.
When you induce lactation, your body will produce milk in response to the stimulation of the nipples. This is done by stimulating the nipples daily with a lightweight breast pump, hand expression, or other means.
You can also accomplish this by using herbs, supplements, medications, mechanical stimulation, or an infant’s involvement to foster production.
Initially, the amount of milk you receive may be minimal or even nonexistent. It can take some time to accumulate enough milk for it to make a noticeable difference in your progress, but with determination and patience, you will eventually get there!
Over the course of a few weeks, the body will begin to produce milk in response to the stimulation. The amount of milk produced will depend on the individual and their body’s response to stimulation.
How long does it take to induce lactation by pumping?
It can take up to four weeks for milk production to commence after you start pumping. However, the emotional stress of adoption may further delay this process.
During this time, you should pump 8 to 10 times a day for at least 15 minutes each session.
It is also important to remember that every woman is different and lactation can take varying amounts of time depending on the individual’s health and other factors.
You may find it helpful to keep detailed records of your pumping sessions in order to track your progress and be sure to reach out to a lactation consultant if you need additional guidance.
With consistency and perseverance, milk production can begin in 4-6 weeks with the right techniques.
Additionally, it is helpful to make lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids to help support your milk supply.
Should I keep pumping if no milk is coming out?
Your lactation specialist will likely recommend that you continue pumping even after the milk flow has stopped to maximize your milk supply.
Alternatively, continue expressing milk for a few minutes after the flow stops to boost your supply further.
This will help stimulate your body to produce more milk. Additionally, it’s important to keep track of when you last pumped, the amount of milk you pump, and your baby’s feeding schedule.
Doing this can help you identify any potential issues with your milk supply early on and take necessary corrective steps as needed.
What are the risks of inducing lactation?
Inducing lactation can come with certain risks that must be considered before starting the process. One of the primary risks is the potential for an emotional impact, as learning to lactate can be challenging and time-consuming, which may cause stress and disappointment if it is unsuccessful.
There may also be physical risks associated with inducing lactation. During the first 2-4 months or a couple of weeks of breastfeeding challenges, nursing women may experience “lactation mastitis,” an infection that is characterized by pain, swelling, warmth and redness in your breast.
The introduction of hormones into the body can also have adverse side effects, such as headaches, nausea, and rashes in some people. Mothers can feel flu-like symptoms such as fever above 101°F and chills.
Moreover, the wrong size and overuse of different types of manual pumps have been linked to pain and discomfort in the nipples.
There is always a risk that milk production will not increase as much as desired.
While inducing lactation can offer an alternative option for mothers who are unable or choose not to breastfeed their babies naturally, it is important to consider all the potential risks associated with this procedure before embarking on it.
How to Induce Lactation: Tips and Tricks
The breastfeeding journey is a skill that takes time to master, but with the right strategies in place and a manual pump, you and your baby can reach your journal of the human lactation journey and have amazing benefits.
Here are some tips to get you started on this journey of nourishment for both body and soul!
Get a Head Start
Don’t wait too long to begin the manual pump – the sooner you start, the better your chances of success. Your breastmilk may take some time to come in, so don’t run out of time!
Regular basis pumping
Pump regularly, even when it doesn’t seem like anything is being expressed. The more often you do this, the higher your milk production will be.
Master Hand Expression
To get extra stimulation and make sure that no opportunity for production is missed, consider hand expressing while using a pump. This could help with getting those first drops flowing faster than ever before!
Wearing a Nursing Bra Makes All the Difference
A nursing bra is an excellent choice for new mothers who want to induce lactation. Not only will it provide gentle compression and support, but also help reduce engorgement-related pain. Plus, having this extra layer of comfort can even increase milk production!
Stay Hydrated!
While inducing lactation, it’s essential to remain hydrated by drinking lots of water along with other fluids throughout the day, which will leave you feeling energized for this endeavor.
Consume Nutritious Foods and Beverages
Eating nutrient-rich meals like oatmeal, fenugreek, and blessed thistle can bolster your milk production. Additionally, there are lactation teas as well as shakes readily available in the market to aid you with increasing your breastmilk supply.
Sticking to a Routine is Crucial
Staying consistent is the key – even though it might not seem like you’re progressing in the beginning, your body will eventually start responding as soon as it recognizes that you are regularly stimulating your breasts. Inducing lactation can be an intimidating endeavor, but with the proper resources and knowledge, you will get succeed.
Rest Up & Rejuvenate
It’s essential for all new moms to get plenty of rest to allow their bodies time to recover from childbirth and pumping stressors—it’s especially important if you’re trying to boost your breastmilk supply through inducing lactation. Make sure you carve out regular periods of much-needed R&R!
FAQs
Using a breast pump to induce lactation is possible, but it is not recommended. Breast pumps are designed to extract milk from the breasts, and they can stimulate the nipples and release oxytocin, which can cause contractions. This can be dangerous for both mother and baby. It is best to consult with your doctor before attempting to use a breast pump for labor induction.
Attempting relactation can be a difficult process, and the results may vary. Women who seek to relactate mainly for emotional benefits usually report feeling more successful than those who prioritize increasing their milk supply. In fact, a survey of women who tried relactation revealed that 75% had a positive experience overall.
Wrapping Up
Thanks for reading our review of the best breast pumps for inducing lactation. We hope you were able to find the perfect pump that meets your needs.
Remember, no matter what kind of breastfeeding journey you’re on. There’s a breast pump out there that will help make it easier and more comfortable.
Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Sharing Is Caring!
References:
- https://www.webmd.com/baby/is-it-safe-to-breast-pump-to-induce-labor
- https://idahopublichealth.com/wic/relactation.pdf
Dr. Leah Alexander is a board-certified general pediatrician and has been practicing pediatrics at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000. Since 2005, she has been working as an independently contracted pediatrician with Medical Doctors Associates at Pediatricare Associates of New Jersey. She also enjoys cooking outside of the medical profession. Read more
Kimberly Langdon M.D., a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist with 19 years of clinical experience, had delivered over 2000 babies. She graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and has accrued an abundance of knowledge within her field.