The question of whether to include a breast pump in your hospital bag is a common source of indecision. While the initial days after birth focus on recovery and bonding, the logistics of establishing a milk supply can quickly become a concern. The decision ultimately depends on your individual health circumstances, your feeding goals, and the specific resources your hospital provides. Knowing the available options and your personal situation can help you pack thoughtfully and avoid unnecessary stress.
Hospital Provided Pumping Resources
Hospitals typically offer robust support for early milk expression, often featuring high-powered, multi-user devices known as hospital-grade pumps. These pumps are built with powerful motors and closed systems, which prevent milk from contaminating the internal mechanism, making them safe for multi-user operation. The enhanced suction strength and specialized programming are particularly beneficial for establishing milk supply quickly in the early postpartum period.
Hospital-grade pumps can reach higher suction levels (up to 300 mmHg) compared to personal pumps (150-250 mmHg), which is helpful for stimulating the breasts when only small amounts of colostrum are present. Hospitals provide the necessary collection kits (flanges, tubing, and bottles) that connect to their specific rental equipment. These kits are for single-person use to maintain hygiene, while the main pump motor is shared among patients.
Scenarios Where Bringing Your Own Pump is Advised
While hospital-grade pumps are highly effective, bringing your personal pump is beneficial in specific situations. Familiarity with your own device can significantly reduce stress, allowing you to focus on the process rather than learning new settings and functions. Having your own pump available also allows you to practice using the exact model you will rely on at home, troubleshoot any issues with the hospital’s lactation staff, and solidify your routine before discharge.
Another important consideration is flange sizing, the measurement of the tunnel that fits over the nipple during pumping. Hospitals often stock a limited range of standard flange sizes, which may not be the correct fit for every person. Using an incorrectly sized flange can cause discomfort, reduce milk removal, and potentially damage breast tissue, compromising early milk production. If you have already been sized or know the hospital’s standard sizes do not work for you, bringing your own correctly sized parts is a proactive measure.
If you anticipate an extended hospital stay, such as if your baby is expected to spend time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), having your personal pump is advantageous. While the hospital will provide a rental during your stay, you will eventually transition to your personal pump or a home rental when you go home. Starting the process with your own machine can simplify the logistical transition, particularly if you are exclusively pumping and need to maintain a strict schedule.
Essential Pumping Accessories to Pack
If you pack your personal pump, including the correct accessories is just as important. Ensuring you have the correct flange inserts or shields is paramount, especially if you require a size outside the common 24mm or 28mm provided in hospital kits. Pack the power adapter and cord for your electric pump, or a fully charged external battery pack, as hospital outlets may not always be conveniently located near your bedside.
For milk storage, bring a few small, labeled bottles or dedicated milk storage bags to contain the colostrum or milk you express. In the first few days, output is minimal, often measured in milliliters, so small containers are most appropriate. It is also helpful to pack basic cleaning supplies, such as a collapsible wash basin and a small bottle brush, to ensure proper hygiene of pump parts after each use, since hospital sinks may not be suitable for thorough cleaning.