The Best Breast Pump to Induce Lactation (2022)

Are you wanting to induce lactation in preparation for a new baby and not sure what breast pump will give you the most success? In this article, we will share our top picks, along with some tips for success.

You’ve decided to try to induce lactation, but you’re not sure where to start. 

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when you’re trying to induce lactation. There are a lot of things that you need to do in order for it to be successful.

We’ve put together a list of the best breast pumps to use for inducing lactation, as well as a list of the best tips and tricks for getting your milk production up and running.

Be sure to work with a lactation professional to come up with a milk induction plan that works for you. Feel free to book a consult with Katie here!

What Type of Pump to Induce Lactation?

The best breast pump to use for inducing lactation is a hospital-grade double electric breast pump. This type of pump will produce more milk in a shorter amount of time than a manual or single electric pump. 

It’s also important to make sure that you’re using the correct size flanges or breast shields. If the flanges are too small, they can cause pain and damage to your nipples. It can also make it difficult for your body to produce the milk it needs. Here are some helpful flange fitting resources.

You’ll also want to make sure that the pump has a letdown and stimulation mode.

You can induce lactation with any breast pump, but there are some that may be more helpful in the long run. Sometimes it just comes down to personal preferences.

Best Breast Pumps for Inducing Lactation

Here are some of the best breast pumps for inducing lactation. We chose these ones either because they are hospital-grade or they have a good reputation for being close to hospital-grade quality.

Click here to check your breast pump insurance coverage! The vast majority of health insurance plans should cover breast pumps and possibly pump parts.

Medela Symphony Breast Pump

Cost: $$$$

This is a hospital-grade pump that can be rented or purchased. It’s a great choice for inducing lactation because it’s very effective at stimulating milk production.

It has a let-down mode, which will help to get your milk flowing, and it comes with two different size flanges so that you can find the perfect fit. However, you can use different flanges and inserts to get the perfect fit.

It’s also very quiet, which is important if you’re pumping at work or in public.

Spectra S1 or S2

Cost: $$

These pumps are great for inducing lactation because they are very effective at stimulating milk production. They both come with a let-down mode and a variety of different size flanges so that you can find the perfect fit.

The S1 has a built-in battery pack while the Spectra S2 does not. They both are double electric pumps with powerful motors. Either of those pumps will be a good choice for not just inducing lactation but for continuous pumping. They are also both closed system pump options.

These pumps are very frequently covered by insurance, and many moms really like them. However, they can be pretty bulky and aren’t super portable.

BabyBuddha Breast Pump‘

Cost: $

This pump is a great choice for inducing lactation because it’s very affordable and you can “hack it” to work as a portable pump – you can learn more about that here – How to do the BabyBuddha + Freemie Hands-Free Pumping Hack

Reviews from so many moms have found this pump to be VERY effective and easy to use. If you are wanting to relocate but not be tied to the chair all the time, this is a great option. Portable pumps can be really helpful!

You can save 10% on the BabyBuddha breast pump with the code TBM10 when you purchase through their website.

Unimom Opera Breast Pump

Cost: $$$

This is a great choice for inducing lactation because it’s very powerful. It is similar in style to the Spectra S1 or S2. It’s a newer breast pump that IS expensive, but it is typically covered by insurance.

Use the code KATIE20 for 20% off.

Medela Pump in Style

Cost: $$

This is a great choice for inducing lactation because it’s very affordable and it comes with a let-down mode. It also has a variety of different size flanges so that you can find the perfect fit.

I have found that more moms have gripes with the PISA, but it’s probably because it’s one of the most popular breast pumps around.

Medela Harmony Manual Pump

Cost: $

It might seem odd to recommend a manual breast pump, but they can actually be really powerful. They can come in handy when you are in a pinch, as well as in the beginning stages of inducing lactation where you are just trying to get as many “hits” as you can.

Which breast pump gives the most milk?

The hospital-grade double electric pumps are often the best breast pumps for inducing lactation. They will produce more milk in a shorter amount of time than any other type of pump. If you’re looking for a pump that will give you the most milk, then this is the one to choose.

With that said, any of the pumps on this list can be good for helping to induce lactation. It really comes down to making sure you are using the pump correctly and having the right-sized flange.

Can I induce lactation with a hands-free pump?

Hands-free pumps are ALL the rage, and they can be helpful. However, they really shouldn’t be used as a primary pump because they don’t have the power needed to encourage and maintain milk supply. However, a wearable breast pump can be really helpful for some moms. We like the BabyBuddha breast pump because you can use it is not hands-free, but it is also can be used hands-free when you are in a pinch.

Induce Lactation Schedule

There are various schedules you can choose to use when inducing lactation. It’s best to work with a lactation specialist to come up with a plan that works for you and your needs/routine. However, here is a general routine you can try:

• For the first few days, just try to get 10-12 “hits” in in 24 hours. A “hit” is basically hand expressing or manual pumping for just a few minutes. You will likely not see any drops.
• After you start to see drops, you will want to start using your pump. For about a week, pump for about five minutes, 3-4 times a day.
• Slowly work your way up to 10-15 minutes every 3-4 hours, and once during the night.
• Once you feel that your supply is going, you can increase to 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours

I recommend using heat and breast massage alongside this schedule to help with milk flow and increase your supply. You can use a warm compress or a heated massager, like the one from Lavie .

How to Stimulate Milk Production With a Pump

There are a few things that you can do to help stimulate your milk production with a pump.

First, make sure that you’re using the correct size flanges. If they’re too small, they can damage your nipples.

Second, use a let-down mode if your pump has one. This will help to stimulate your milk production.

Third, play around with the different settings to find what works best for you. I would definitely switch back and forth between letdown and stimulation modes.

What to expect when inducing lactation?

In the beginning, you won’t get much milk. You may not get any at all during the first week. It can take quite awhile to get enough milk to feel like you are making progress, but you can get there! Some parents choose to use medications, such as domperidone, or herbal supplements, to help with the process. Always work with a medical professional if you do this.

Why would you induce lactation?

There are several reasons why a person would want to induce lactation:

• Adoptive parents who wants to breastfeed their adopted baby
• Same-sex couple who has a non-gestational parent who would like to breastfeed as well
• You didn’t breastfeed in the beginning but change your mind later on and no longer want to use infant formula

How often should I pump to induce lactation?

Inducing lactation can be a tricky process. Working with a lactation consultant is the best option for making sure you are pumping as frequently as necessary.

I have talked in depth about relactation, which can be similar to induced lactation here – – The Ultimate Relactation Guide – How to Get Your Breast Milk Back

Can I save the milk I pump?

You can absolutely save any amount of milk that you express. Just make sure you store them in storage bags or cubes that are designed for breast milk. It is a good idea to save any milk that you can get!

Here are some resources that might be helpful to you:

• 7 Best Reusable Storage Containers for Breast milk
• 11 Best Breast Milk Storage Bags – Mom Approved

Pumping to induce lactation without a baby

Inducing lactation can be a tricky process if you don’t have a baby (such as if you are adopting and the baby hasn’t arrived), but it is possible to do it without a baby. You’ll need to commit to pumping around the clock, every 2-3 hours. This will help to stimulate your milk production and get your body into the habit of producing milk.

It’s also important to make sure that you’re using the correct size flanges or breast shields. If the flanges are too small, they can cause pain and damage to your nipples. You’ll also want to make sure that the pump has a let-down mode, which will help to stimulate your milk production.

How long does it take to induce lactation?

The length of time it takes to induce lactation can vary from person to person. It typically takes a few days or weeks to see any results, and it may take longer to see an increase in flow.

If you’re working with a lactation consultant, they can help to determine how often you need to pump in order to stimulate your milk production and if any supplements might be helpful for you.

Inducing lactation is a process, and it’s important to be patient. It can take some time for your body to adjust to the new demand of producing milk.

What are the risks of inducing lactation?

There are a few risks associated with inducing lactation.

First, if you’re using a pump, you’ll want to make sure that you’re using the correct size flanges. If they’re too small or large, they can damage your nipples.

Second, pumping for long periods of time can be tiring and stressful. Make sure to take breaks as needed, and try to find a pumping schedule that works for you.

Finally, there’s always a risk that your milk production will not increase as much as you’d like. This is why it’s important to work with a lactation consultant. They can help you to troubleshoot any problems that you might be having.It can be a very emotional process as well, so you need to make sure you have the emotional support that you need.

How to Induce Lactation: Tips and Tricks

Now that you have a pump, what do you do with it? Here are some tips and tricks for inducing lactation.

Start Early

The sooner you start pumping, the better. It can take a few weeks for your milk to come in, so the earlier you start, the better your chances of success.

Pump Often

Pump as often as you can, even if you don’t think you’re getting anything out. The more you pump, the more milk you’ll produce.

Use Hand Expression

Hand expression can be really helpful, especially in the beginning. It can be helpful to get in extra stimulation when you may not be able to sit down to the pump. Here is a great article on hand expression – How to Hand Express Breast Milk – and the Amazing Reasons Why All Moms Should Know How to!

Eat and Drink Right

Eating and drinking the right foods and beverages can help to increase your milk production. Foods like oatmeal, fenugreek, and blessed thistle are all known to help with lactation.

There are also a number of lactation teas and shakes on the market that can help to boost your milk production.

Stay Hydrated

It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re trying to induce lactation. Drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day. This will help you feel better and more up to the task. Here is more information about hydration and breastfeeding – How Much Water Should I Drink While Breastfeeding?

Use a Nursing Bra

A nursing bra provides gentle compression and support for your breasts, which can help to increase milk production. It also helps to keep your breasts from becoming engorged, which can lead to pain and discomfort.

Get Plenty of Rest

Getting enough rest is important for all new mothers, but it’s especially important if you’re trying to induce lactation. Your body needs time to recover from the stress of childbirth and pumping, so make sure you’re getting plenty of rest.

Stay Consistent

Consistency is truly key. It may feel like you are pumping for nothing in the beginning, but as your body sees that you are regularly stimulating the breast, it will eventually start to respond.

Inducing lactation can be a daunting task, but it’s definitely possible with the right tools and information. Use these tips and tricks to increase your chances of success. Be sure to let us know if you have any questions in the comment section!

More Articles You May Enjoy:

• What Should You Do With Extra Breast Milk?
• 7 Tips on How to Make Breast Milk Fattier
• Breast Milk Storage Capacity 101: A Simple Guide for Breastfeeding Moms!