Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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528 of 536 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
DEFINITELY Worth the Price!, July 3, 2005
Speed & Quantity
As one who expressed 30-ounces a day in order to keep up with my little guy I can attest to the speed, and efficiency of the Pump In Style. While on vacation, I misplaced the membranes to the Pump In Style, which are vital for operation. Considering my breasts were ready to burst, I purchased an Avent Isis hand pump. The Isis was great in a pinch, or for a weekend away; however, the Pump In Style was superior in speed and quantity. With the Pump in Style I expressed 16-ounces in 20 minutes, whereas it took me 30 to 40-minutes to express 10-ounces with the Isis.
Comfort
Using a breast pump takes time and practice. It can also be painful especially if your nipples are cracked and bleeding. I used the PurLan breast cream after each session, so I never experienced discomfort. The Pump In Style accommodates small and large chests alike. Small breast shields are provided as well as large breast shields for optimum suction, and comfort. The suction is adjustable, and it's recommended that one start with the lowest of speeds. I quickly graduated to the highest speed, which made for very effective pumping.
Set-up & Cleaning
Setting up the Pump In Style is a breeze compared to the Isis pump. There are 5-simple steps in all, and it takes 2 to 3-minutes tops. Make sure the tubing is fitted securely, and that the membranes are dry, and laying flat. Start pumping. After each session, disassemble and wash. Most of the parts in the accessory kit are dishwasher safe, and can be used in a steam sterilizer as well. Although, the membranes and tubing should be hand washed only. If running through the dishwasher, store the valves in a basket for protection from the heating element.
Storing
The Pump In Style includes a built-in insulated compartment with zipper enclosure. The compartment stores up to 20-ounces of breast milk. 3-rectangular cooling packs keep the breast milk cold for hours. Medela includes 20-CSF collection bags for storing, which I bought separately. They feature measurement indicators in both milliliters, and ounces. Labels are included as well, so the date can be recorded. I do not recommend storing full bags in the insulated compartment as it has the potential for making a huge mess. They should go right into the freezer, or refrigerator. I didn't like the twist tie assembly, so I used them for stock piling frozen breast milk. The bags are durable, and they freeze well; although, I had a difficult time propping them up so they wouldn't fall. Spilled breast milk is something to cry about.
Breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator, or in the freezer. Freshly expressed milk may stand at room temperature for up to 4-hours; however, it should be refrigerated if temperatures exceed 77°. Breast milk will remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. One may store expressed milk in a self-contained freezer for up to 4-months, and up to 1-year in a deep freezer. Frozen breast milk can be defrosted in the refrigerator, in a bottle warmer, or at the tap. Never re-freeze thawed breast milk.
Portable
The Pump In Style is a working moms dream. One can pump between meetings, and store in the refrigerator, or in the built-in insulator. If storing breast milk in the refrigerator at work, be sure to mark it, as others may be tempted to flavor their coffee unknowingly. The pump and all its parts weighs 7-lbs. This isn't heavy, but when loaded with 3-frozen ice packs, and 4-full bottles it can weigh up to 12 pounds. The weight was rarely a problem for me, but it's something to consider if carrying a fully loaded breast pump, a newborn, a diaper bag, and a purse. The battery pack is great for on-the-go pumping, but it eats batteries, so I didn't use it much. Oh, and on the road pumping with the vehicle lighter adapter is available for an additional fee. I would have definitely invested in one had I known about it.
In evaluating this breast pump, there are so many positives it's actually difficult for me to find negatives. Therefore, I believe the benefits outweigh any objectionable points. If asked to present a con, I would suggest the following. Upon occasion, breast milk will leak into the tubing. This isn't a huge issue. All you do is remove the tubing, and soak it in warm soapy water. Hang the tubing to dry. If dried breast milk is discovered in the tubes, then disinfect them by boiling in a pan of water. Hang the tubing to dry. Thus, I found it best to sit up straight when pumping. For me, this pump was a way for me to offer my son breastmilk, so I definitely recommmend it!
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254 of 258 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great investment, February 3, 2005
If you are planning to pump on a regular basis, you will really appreciate this reliable, portable pump. Admittedly, it is not as strong as the hospital-quality Medela pump which I rented initially. However, once you get used to this pump you will find it very convenient.
My biggest suggestion for new users is to experiment with the speed and intensity dials. I actually got more milk using a lower speed and intensity level than a higher one. So if you're not getting that much milk at first, try making some adjustments and you may find an improvement.
I know women who have used other pumps and found pumping a very frustrating experience. But with this pump, it will be about as convenient as pumping can be. My advice is to get a magazine or book, keep it with your pump and just relax - the pump will do the rest. (You'll have to stop every minute or so to turn pages - you will risk spilling the milk otherwise).
I agree with one of the reviewers that you do have to lean forward a little bit or the milk will spill, but I think that's probably true with any pump.
I think it's a great investment, because the more things you do to make breastfeeding and pumping convenient and enjoyable the more likely you will continue with it. (My baby is nine months old and still exclusively breastfed). Good luck!
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33 of 33 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
it's okay, August 21, 2005
This pump is okay for an electric double pump. I didn't give it 5 stars because there are two things wrong with the design. First, the shields are built in a way that make you hunch over while pumping, because if you don't then the milk MAY dribble or leak out of the shield where your nipple is attached to it. So you end up getting a sore back. Second, it is not a hands-free pump. So, you are tied to the machine until you are finished.
It takes me about 10 minutes per breast for 4 oz of milk, unless I pump both at the same time (which leaves more time for sleep), then I can get 8oz in 10 min.
Here are some tips for this pump:
-Make sure you play with the setting for speed and suction. I like the medium suction with a speed of 4.
-If you aren't getting much milk, stop the pump and massage your breasts and try again or wait 10-15 min. before trying to pump again.
-This pump is not only for those who are planning to return to work. I pump so I can get 5-6 hours of consecutive sleep (while relatives or my husband watch them - twins) or so i can run a few errands without the twins.
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