Breastpump recommendations wanted please (UK based)

[lotti]

Hi,

I am planning to wean my 8 month old off daytime breastfeeding soon, as I am returning to work in the summer. I find pumping milk really difficult and uncomfortable but I really want to continue giving him my milk for as long as possible - and certainly in the transition from breast to cup/bottle (can't decide at  the mo) as he flatly refuses formula ( have tried several brands).

Can anyone recommend a good pump? I have the Medela mini-electric one and find it awkward, noisy and very painful. The most I have ever managed to pump aswell is 4 oz which would not be much use to my 23lb fella! I would like a softer and quieter model! Don't mind the cost.

Also, is there a better time of day to pump? I am concerned not to be stealing his daytime supply as at first i am sure he will not take much from a source that isn't my breast, and is waking at night for food at the moment anyway.

Thanks
Charlotte

[anna and adam]

I prefer the avent hand-pump. I have also tried an electic type, very noisy and even painful, really made me feel like a cow at the farm! Pumping is hard but if you do it on a full breast it should of course be a lot easier.

[jobi]

I used the avent hand pump with ds2+3. I thought it was really good, bit fiddly to put together though!!

[JacobMarksMummy]

I third the avent hand pump. Not too dear and easy to use one handed 

[daisymelan]

Just wanted to say that your son is a cutie!!!!

(I'm from Canada so no advice for you.  Sorry)

[Tamara]

Ditto on the Avent

[beccarman]

also agree!!!

avent have now got a double sided electric one which is supposed to mimic your pumpimg rythym...?the hand pumpsounds easier and cheaperto me though! i use avent breast shells too to collect milk from the side i'm not pumping from...every little bit helps!

[lotti]

Thanks everyone ... I think i'll try the Avent hand pump then, it looks comfy.

[rach]

I used avent too - will be using it again this time round.

[Michelle72]

Hi, i also pump with avent, i find it very easy to use,  i also find in the morning is a good time to pump as your breasts tend to be fuller.

[AmyT]

Same here I used the Avent hand pump, very quiet and once I got used to it after a few practices I could express alot very easily.

[evanskimberley]

I loved my avent pump sp would recommend it.
But...
Have you looked into borrowing an electric one from your local NCT branch. Can't remember if you borrow them or hire them, but someone will show yu hwo to use it and support yuo and I don't think you have to be a member (not sure about this last bit) i can find a number for you if you're interested.

[Samuel's mum]

I had success with the avent hand pump too (almost called it advent then!). The ordinary isis hand pump. I actually preferred it to the medela double electric one I bought at first. I know that the new Isis IQ range (there's a single and double) learns your rhythm and then takes over which sounds a bit freaky but possibly very good.