Wearable Breast Pump: Is It the Right Choice for You?

Did you know not every mum needs a wearable breast pump? I’ve seen so many expecting and breastfeeding mums get them because they seem convenient, but later they find out they don’t work well for them (an expensive mistake! 😬😫). This post will help you decide if a wearable breast pump is the right choice for you. I’ll talk about what wearable pumps are, how they work, and what to think about before you buy one.

What Is a Wearable Breast Pump?

A wearable breast pump is made to be small and fit inside your bra, so you can pump hands-free. Sounds great, right? It’s wireless, so you can walk around, do chores, or even run errands while pumping milk. They’ve become super popular with busy mums who want to do other things while they’re pumping. But, before you click “add to cart,” let’s talk about whether it’s the right pump for *you*.

Why a Wearable Breast Pump Might Not Be the Best Option

A wearable breast pump seems convenient, but it’s not the best choice for everyone. If your reason for pumping is to build a stash for occasional bottle feeds or if you’ll be away from baby every now and then, a wearable pump might do the job. But if you’re pumping to boost your low milk supply or to keep your supply up when you go back to work, a wearable pump might not give you the milk output you need. Most wearable pumps aren’t as strong as regular electric pumps, so they might not empty your breasts properly and this can cause problems with milk supply.

Can a Wearable Breast Pump Lower Your Milk Supply?

Yes, they can in some situations. Like I mentioned, wearable pumps often don’t empty the breast as well as regular electric pumps and hospital-grade pumps. And if your breasts aren’t fully emptied, it can signal your body to make less milk. So, if you have low milk supply or are worried about keeping your supply up, you might want to use a stronger pump along with—or instead of—a wearable one.

What to Consider Before Buying a Breast Pump

So, do you really need a breast pump before your baby is born? Not always! It’s easy to want everything ready, but some mums don’t use a pump right away. Others find that a different kind of pump works better for them.

Before buying a breast pump, ask yourself:

• Will you need to pump often or just sometimes?
• Are you going to pump at work or at home?
• Are you worried about having enough milk?

These questions can help you figure out whether a wearable breast pump is the right choice for your breastfeeding journey. Check out this post about choosing the best breast pump find out your options and which one is the best for you.

Btw, if you’re in planning and preparing mode getting ready for baby and breastfeeding but feeling overwhelmed by all the things, you might find my free Breastfeeding Essentials Guide For Mums-To-Be helpful. I list out all the breastfeeding products you need to have ready before baby arrives, the ones you can wait to buy later and the ones you really don’t need at all. Download it free here.

Are Wearable Breast Pumps Hospital-Grade?

Wearable pumps aren’t considered hospital-grade. They aren’t strong enough. Hospital-grade pumps are designed to start and keep up milk supply for mums who have premature babies or need to exclusively pump for their babies who can’t feed from the breast. If you have trouble breastfeeding early on or are worried about low milk supply, it’s usually best to start with a hospital-grade pump. You can always get a wearable pump later once your supply is strong!

Can You Exclusively Use a Wearable Pump?

Again, it depends on the reason you’re pumping. If it’s occasional pumping, you might be able to get away with only using a wearable pump. But if you’re needing to pump many times a day for weeks or months, as well as not emptying your breasts well, a wearable pump motor probably won’t last. These pumps are easy to use, but they’re not as strong or long-lasting as other pumps. You might be better off buying a regular electric pump as well as a wearable pump that you can use when out and about if that’s in your budget. 

Can You Use a Wearable Breast Pump While Sleeping?

It’s not a good idea to use a wearable breast pump while you’re sleeping. Even though the pump is small and wireless, lying down can cause air leaks, poor suction, and milk to spill everywhere (and trust me, breastfeeding mums DO cry over spilled milk!). It also might not empty your breasts all the way. Plus, depending on how you’re lying, the pressure from the pump could lead to localised breast inflammation or even mastitis. If you need to pump at night, it’s better to wake up and use the pump to make sure you get the best results without any problems.

Four Tips for Choosing the Right Breast Pump

1. Think about your long-term needs: Will you pump often or just sometimes? This can help you decide if a wearable breast pump is right for you.

2. Consider milk supply: If you’re worried about having enough milk, a stronger pump might be better, especially in the early days.

3. Plan for flexibility: If you want to be hands-free, think about getting a regular electric pump that has a hands-free option instead of just a wearable one.

4. Talk to a Lactation Consultant: They can help you choose the right pump for your needs and breastfeeding journey.

Is a Wearable Breast Pump Right for You? Let’s Talk!

Wearable breast pumps can be convenient, but they’re not the best choice for every mum. Before you decide, think about how often you’ll pump, your milk supply, and if a stronger pump might work better for you. If you’re still not sure, send me a DM me on Instagram and we can chat.

P.S. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about which other breastfeeding products you need to have ready before baby arrives, download my free Breastfeeding Essentials Guide For Mums-To-Be.