What Is a Hospital-Grade Breast Pump? October 13, 2015 15:58

If you’re in the market for purchasing or renting a breast pump, you may be confused about what’s considered hospital grade. Because this term isn’t regulated by the FDA, there isn’t necessarily a consistent definition. There are, however, a few characteristics of hospital-grade breast pumps that make them better for certain mothers. Here’s what you need to know.

Designed Use

The term hospital grade came into existence because of certain pumps that were sold or rented in hospitals. In the beginning, these pumps had features that differed personal use pumps. For instance, because they were meant to be used by more than one mom, they contained features that were sure to prevent cross contamination. In fact, many hospital-grade pumps today are still designed so that multiple users are possible—each just needs mother have her own personal collection kit.

Hospital Grade vs. Personal

Hospital-grade pumps are stronger and more durable than most personal use pumps. They are more effective at stimulating oxytocin and prolactin to increase production of breast milk. They also have more powerful motors that make the suction more effective for extracting milk. Because of their quality and durability, they generally have a longer manufacturer’s warranty than personal use pumps.

Is Hospital Grade Right for You?

Hospital-grade pumps can be used by any nursing mother who finds it necessary to pump. However, these types of pumps are bulkier and a little more difficult to transport. So, if you don’t plan on pumping often, hospital grade may not be the best choice.

Hospital-grade breast pumps are especially helpful for women who have a sick or premature infant and want to pump to keep up milk production until the baby can nurse well. They also work well for mothers of multiples, women who need help inducing lactation or increasing milk supply, or working moms who pump often in order to provide bottles of breast milk for a caregiver during the day.