Pumping in the hospital and at home - which hospital grade pump to use?

MrsGoody · April 2011

My baby will be born on Monday at 34 weeks. My hospital has the Ameda Elite to use while I'm here and when I visit my LO in the NICU. They gave me the kit so I have all the parts.

I'm looking into renting a hospital grade pump for when I'm discharged; I have an Ameda Purely Yours at home from my other two kids but I just don't think it will be efficient and fast enough for the 8-10 times per day I'll need to pump. My sister had one of her twins in the NICU last year for about a week, and then EP'd when they were both home for like six months, and she used the Medela Symphony and loved it. I have the option of renting an Ameda Elite for $40/month or a Medela Symphony for $60/month from a local LC. I'd also have to buy a Symphony kit for about $50 if I go with Medela, but I'm pretty sure my insurance will cover which ever way I decide.

Just wondering what everyone else used, and what you thought about it (loved it, liked it, etc.)

Thanks for your input!

erinmoore4 · April 2011

I am currently pumping every 2 hrs for my NICU preemie. The hospital rented me a Medela Symphony and I love it! It is quick and easy to use. My hospital also has the Medelas to use in the pumping room so that makes it a little easier. I haven't tried any other pumps though. But FWIW, I recommend the Medela.

witt0198 · April 2011

I used primarily the ameda hospital grade, and it worked great. I did use the medela symphony during one of his admissions, and it got the job done as well. What I like about the ameda is it has an FDA approved system that keeps all the condensation etc out of the tubing, I never had to worry about my tubes getting full of condensation and how to get it out/clean it up.

I would also like the idea of being able to use the same gear at home and the hospital, some times it's just easier to keep it simple that way. Either one you pick I think you'll be just fine/happy.

Leigh71 · April 2011

I loved using/renting the Medela Symphony.

mrsV719 · April 2011

I use the Ameda Elite at home (insurance covered it b/c we are separated) and at the hospital. I also use the Ameda Purely Yours at home/work. I LOVE the system and they all work very well!

I think you can't go wrong with either.. but you already have the parts and pump for one... stick to it!

Happy2bNappy · April 2011

I don't know about any other state but I am in Florida and had WIC, they loaned me the same brand pump that they use in the hospital, you get to keep it for as long as the baby in the NICU.

schenkertobe · April 2011

My LO was born at 31 weeks, is 8 weeks old, and I am still exclusively pumping due to latching issues now. I used an Ameda Elite while in the NICU, and have a Medela PISA. I never noticed a difference between the hospital grade pump and my pump. After 2 months, I am still pumping 8 times per day and my Medela is still working great.

cme79 · April 2011

I used the Medela Symphony because that's what they had at the hospital. I loved it but I agree with PP that you should get whatever is going to make your life easier. I'm sure the Ameda is comparable.

lemen99 · April 2011

I EPed for 15 months.

I rented the Medela Symphony for a month, and then I used a Medela Pump In Style Advanced. I had an overwhelming supply and no issues with either pump.

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Pumping in the hospital and at home - which hospital grade pump to use?

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