Before going to the pro and con between the above 2 pumps, let's see my history of breast pump usage.
I have used quite a variety types of breast pumps since Bebe Ian was born. The first pump I purchased was the most basic and cheapest one. Pureen Manual Pump. Bought it when I was 7 months pregnant during Pureen Warehouse Sale. I think it only cost me RM12.
Believe it or not I survived using only this pump for a month until the rubber bulb gave in and I since I can't find a replacement I purchased this;
But out of all pumps I bought, this was the worst. I used once and the pump stopped working. Pissed me off. Wasted around RM50++ for this. Feeling angry I upgraded myself to Avent Manual.
This one was bought by a good friend of mine from SG. The pricing was relatively cheaper in SGD compared to MYR. Cost me about RM200+ for this one. In short, I LOVE this pump. In fact I am still using it from time to time.
Since I've been buying only single pump before, I was itching to try breast pump with double pumping feature. Limited money available so I decided to purchase a second hand Ameda Lactaline pump.
This one cost me about RM450. Was still under warranty so I thought it's a good deal. Was in good condition. Verdict : it's a great pump but I find it's troublesome to fiddle with the knobs while trying to hold the flanges in place. Although it can run on AA batteries, I never tried it (it needs 6 batteries to run!)and whenever pumping I have to be hooked to an electrical switch. So not very convenient. In the end I sold it off.
So I survived with Avent Manual until end of Feb 2012. Then my Medela Freestyle came. :)
I spent a huge amount of money for this one. RM1734 to be exact. But worth a single cent. :)
Okay, so now let's see the pros and cons between Medela FS and Avent Manual:
Price : Avent is definitely much much cheaper than Medela FS. But I'm happy with both. If you are a mom to be I suggest u invest in Medela FS from the start. Save your cents for it! :)
Yield : Medela FS will give more yield, at least for me. Must be the fact that it's a double pump (so pump both breasts when you are having let down) and the stimulation phase work wonders.
Mobility: Both are easily to be carried around. So I have pumped in airports / the company's washroom where I had attended an interview. I got the job, but I turned down the offer... Off topic but well.. Haha
Practicality: I would say both are practical. But Medela FS gave me a whole new meaning of multitasking. Imagine this, I can do work with my right hand while pumping and while replying a text on my phone using my left hand. And the best part would be pumping while driving. Saves a whole lot of time if you ask me.
Prep Time : This is actually prep time to pump. I think Medela FS needs more time to "set up". You will need to "latch" the hands free string around your nursing bra. But after a while you'll become an expert. :) While Avent you will just have to assemble it, super fast, lift your shirt, pop out your boobs (err one boob at one time) and pump away...
What else? I think I basically covered them all... Right? :) Anyways, word of advise : Do your research before investing in any breast pumps to save you $$$ in a long run. Just remember, by breastfeeding your child you are giving them the best milk in the world. :D
P/S : All pics are courtesy of Google Image. Hehe, lazy to search for my own. :)
