Manual breast pump - keep or return?

BabyCopper

I'm due this week.  Trying to decide whether I will really need a manual breast pump.  I'm most likely going to be getting the Medela Pump In Style Breast Pump with Shoulder Bag. 

 So, moms, tell me - do I really need the manual breast pump?

 

sassafras007

I have the PIS and a manual...manual broke on day 2...

Starfish113

I like my manual. Haven't used it much, but it has come in handy if I'm not home with my regular pump. I also used it before I got an electric pump. I wanted to make sure I was going to stick to BFing before I made a big purchase!

MamaSquish

I couldn't decide if I should start with a manual pump either and I got athe Medela electric pump and used it for the first time today and LOVE it.  If you're planning on buying it anyway, I'd say just get that, unless you want the hand pump for on the run.  (The electric comes with the car charger though too)

ju1ia

I've used my manual pump (Medela Harmony) once...got it from the hospital (was charged to my insurance so it was "free"). I could see it coming in handy if I was maybe having date night with DH and needed the pump to relieve engorgement, but otw I use my Freestyle.

BottomStar

You probably don't "need" one, but i find it helpful to have around.  I have the freestyle and use that primarily (at work, and sometimes in the evening.)  I got the manual one free from the hospital so I use it occassionally at home.  i was thinking about keeping it in the office as a backup because I'm paranoid that I'm going to forget my pump (or a key piece of it) at home and then not be able to pump at work. 

I have the medela harmony and it works surprisingly well.

homebird

I think it depends on what you're using a pump for. If you only plan to pump occasionally, a manual is fine. I have a Lansinoh manual and I love it. It's great for relieving engorgement, or for filling a bottle so we can leave LO with a baby sitter.