Relief At Last!
Written: Jan 25 '00 (Updated Oct 09 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: compact, easy to use, multiple settings
Cons: slightly noisy
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| rmgood's Full Review: Medela Mini Electric Breastpump |
The call came two weeks after my baby was born. The boss was desperate for help and would take any little amount I could offer! So less than a month after delivering, I was back at work. I thought a couple nights a week for short five hour shifts, what could it possibly hurt? Right away the first issue surfaced: How do we feed her?
Not wanting to supplement breastfeeding with formula especially so early, off I trotted to the baby store to search high and low for a breast pump. I didn't do my research very well and focused primarily on price. I wanted something easy to use, electric because I didn't really get the whole manual thing (I know, I know, but I was doing this for the first time!) and one that ran on either power or battery so I could pump milk even in inconvenient locations when necessary (like the car or restroom).
My first attempt (with an Evenflo model) failed miserably. It was an aggravating and painful experience. So I was out $40, the Evenflo model was already in the trash and it was time to do my homework. I called a lactation consultant and she directed me towards the Medela brand. She knew what she was talking about!
Who would've thought two brands could be so different?! Although not the speediest pump on the market, for the price this was the best option I found and the Medela Mini Electric did express enough milk in a reasonable time period. More importantly, though, the pump was comfortable and natural! No pinching, squeezing, throbbing or pulling! It didn't provide the pleasurable experience of actually breastfeeding my child, but it really was the next best thing.
The Medela Mini Electric is small and compact. The battery-powered option is very convenient when traveling or even just out for the day. Finally I could leave the house again! It allowed me to discreetly express milk in the car or restroom without any hassle. In addition, the pump has multiple levels of suction to adjust for one's personal comfort level.
The biggest drawback to this pump is that the motor is a little noisy. It didn't bother me any, but I could see how this might be an issue for others. It is important to note that this pump is designed for occasional use. If you are going back to work for the greater portion of the day, then this style really isn't for you. (Although I would stick with the Medela brand and save yourself a great deal of frustration and discomfort.) The Mini Electric is perfect for working a couple evenings a week or to get that much needed night for yourself. The double-style pumps are quicker and more practical for mothers who work more often.
The pump came with clear instructions and is easy to use. Also the parts are easy to separate and wash. I will use this same model with future children and would definitely recommend it to new mothers.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID: rmgood
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Member: Raquel
Location: Minnesota
Reviews written: 89
Trusted by: 85 members
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