Tag: breast pump

  • Top 10 Must-Have Baby Products for First-Time Moms

    Top 10 Must-Have Baby Products for First-Time Moms

    Becoming a mom is one of life’s most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) experiences, especially when it comes to figuring out what you actually need. Between baby showers, registry lists, and holiday wish lists, it can be hard to tell which products are truly worth the hype.

    Whether you’re expecting your first baby or shopping for someone who is, we’ve rounded up the top 10 must-have products for first-time moms – essentials that simplify daily routines, bring comfort, and help you feel prepared for every moment ahead.

    1. Breast Pump Through Insurance 

    mom using electric breast pump provided through insurance

    A high-quality breast pump is a must for every new mom, and the best part is, you may be eligible for one through insurance at no cost.

    Acelleron offers top brands like Spectra, Medela, Elvie, Willow, and Cimilre, shipped right to your door. We recommend choosing a primary pump as your main model for daily use, and if you’d like added convenience, you can always explore wearable options as a secondary pump for on-the-go support. Check your coverage today at acelleron.com/order.

    1. Hatch Baby

    Hatch Baby sound machine and nightlight for newborn sleep support

    Sleep can feel like a dream in those early days, and this smart, soothing device helps make it more attainable.

    The new Hatch Baby combines calming sounds, gentle lights, and expert guidance to help little ones (and parents) build healthy sleep routines from the start. With features like predictive sleep schedules, time-for-bed and time-to-rise cues, and access to Certified Sleep Consultants, it’s more than just a sound machine, it’s an entire sleep system in one compact design.

    Control it through the app, customize lights and sounds, and relax knowing Hatch Baby grows with your child through every milestone.

    1. Baby Brezza Bottle Sterilizer and Dryer Advanced

    Baby Brezza bottle sterilizer and dryer for fast and easy bottle cleaning

    If there’s one product that saves time and sanity for new parents, it’s this one. The Baby Brezza Sterilizer and Dryer Advanced automatically sterilizes and dries bottles, pump parts, pacifiers, and more – all in one easy step.

    Using natural steam, it eliminates 99.9% of germs, bacteria, and yeast in just ten minutes, then finishes with HEPA-filtered hot air to dry and ensure everything stays clean and ready to use. Its large capacity means you can fit up to eight bottles or two full sets of pump parts from any brand, making it perfect for busy households.

    With customizable settings, a digital countdown timer, and the ability to keep items sterile for up to 48 hours, this all-in-one station makes bottle prep and cleanup effortless, giving you more time to focus on what matters most.

    1. BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss

    BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss in a cozy nursery environment

    This lightweight, ergonomic seat gives babies a cozy place to rest, play, and move naturally with no batteries or plugs needed. The BabyBjörn Bouncer Bliss rocks gently with your baby’s own movements, helping them feel comforted while supporting healthy balance and motor skill development.

    Designed for use from newborn to toddler (8–29 lbs), it transitions from a soothing bouncer to a comfortable chair as your baby grows. The soft, quilted fabric offers gentle support for your little one’s back, neck, and head, and the International Hip Dysplasia Institute recognizes it as a hip-healthy product.

    Easy to carry from room to room, it’s a simple, beautiful way to keep your baby close while your hands are free.

    1. Frida Baby 3-in-1 Humidifier, Diffuser & Nightlight

    Frida Baby 3-in-1 humidifier with nightlight and diffuser in baby’s

    This sleek little multitasker helps create a calm, comfortable space for your baby to breathe, rest, and recharge. The Frida Baby 3-in-1 Humidifier delivers a gentle, cool mist that can run for up to 60 hours, keeping the nursery air perfectly balanced through dry nights and changing seasons.

    It doubles as a nightlight and diffuser, so you can add a soft glow for bedtime routines or use your favorite essential oils for a soothing scent. Note: Always check that any essentials oils you use are safe for infants and consult with your pediatrician if you have questions about diffusing around your baby. The top-fill design makes refills quick and spill-free, while the 360° mist spout, auto shut-off, and whisper-quiet function make it as practical as it is peaceful.

    It’s a simple way to add comfort and serenity to your baby’s room and yours.

    1. Ergobaby Omni Breeze Baby Carrier

    mom wearing Ergobaby Omni Breeze carrier holding baby

    Designed for comfort, connection, and breathability, the Ergobaby Omni Breeze makes it easier to keep your baby close through every stage. The lightweight, SoftFlex™ mesh allows air to flow freely, keeping both you and your baby cool whether you’re at home or on the go.

    With all carry positions available – front inward, front outward, hip, and back – it provides ergonomic support for babies from 7 to 45 lbs and adjusts easily for growing little ones. Padded shoulder straps and a supportive waistband help distribute weight evenly, giving you lasting comfort through longer walks or hands-free moments around the house.

    It’s an all-in-one carrier built to grow with your baby, durable, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed for real life.

    1. My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow

    My Brest Friend nursing pillow for breast feeding support

    Support and comfort make all the difference during feeding time, and the My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow was designed with both in mind. Its wrap-around, ergonomic shape keeps your baby securely positioned, promoting a better latch and more relaxed posture for you.

    Unlike traditional crescent-shaped pillows, its firm, flat surface eliminates gaps and helps maintain consistent support through each feeding. The plush slipcover adds softness and includes a handy side pocket to keep small essentials within reach, from burp cloths to water bottles.

    Trusted by lactation consultants and hospitals worldwide, this pillow is a true favorite among moms for creating a stable, comfortable, and stress-free feeding experience.

    1. Simplehuman Diaper Pail

    Simplehuman diaper pail with odor-control system in nursery

    A diaper pail might not be the most glamorous item on your list, but this one truly earns its place. The Simplehuman Diaper Pail keeps odors under control with its Odorsorb system, combining all-natural odor pods and liners that neutralize smells instead of masking them.

    Its slow-close lid seals quietly to lock odors in, while the sturdy steel pedal is built to last for years, even through thousands of diaper changes. Inside, earth-friendly recycled plastic buckets and custom-fit liners make cleanup simple and mess-free, without bag bunching or slipping.

    Practical, durable, and designed to look right at home in any nursery, this diaper pail makes everyday cleanups a little easier (and fresher).

    1. Breast Milk Storage Bags

    breast milk storage bags

    Keeping your milk safe and organized matters and milk storage bags make it easy. These durable, pre-sealed bags are built for convenience.

    Brands like Cimilre and Lansinoh  offer strong, leak-proof options with double zipper seals, presterilized interiors, and large write-on label areas for tracking the date and volumes. Cimilre bags feature an easy-tear top and self-standing design for quick transfers, while Lansinoh bags are reinforced for freezing and even allow pumping directly into the bag with compatible pump adapters. Once you’re postpartum, you may also be able to get additional depending on your plan.

    1. Lovevery Play Gym

    Lovevery Play Gym set up with developmental toys and play zones

    Playtime is where learning begins, and the Lovevery Play Gym turns every moment into a developmental experience. Designed to grow with your baby from newborn through toddlerhood, this award-winning mat features five developmental zones that encourage sensory exploration, focus, and motor skill growth.

    It includes detachable toys, high-contrast cards, and a double-sided play space cover that transforms into a cozy fort for toddlers, keeping the play experience fresh and engaging. The included Play Guide offers stage-based activity ideas and tips for parents, helping you make the most of each phase of your baby’s development.

    It’s more than a play mat, it’s a space for connection, discovery, and joyful milestones all year long.

    Whether you’re creating your baby registry or looking for thoughtful gifts this holiday season, these top 10 essentials bring together comfort, convenience, and care for both mom and baby.

    Start with your then add the rest of these tried-and-true favorites to make the early days of motherhood a little smoother and a lot more joyful.

     

    *This post contains affiliate links, which means Acelleron may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links.

  • Understanding Breast Pump Modes, Cycles, and Suction Settings

    Understanding Breast Pump Modes, Cycles, and Suction Settings

    How often do you read the user manual when you get a new product (e.g., cell phone, coffee maker, kid’s toy)? While some people turn to the user manual right away, many of us “wing it” when trying something new. That approach might work ok for a phone, but when it comes to breast pumps, a bit more background knowledge goes a long way – even if you’ve already pumped before. Let’s explore and understand how breast pumps operate before using it on a such a sensitive area of our body!

    All breast pumps are designed to follow a general framework that aims to mimic a baby’s natural nursing pattern. Most pumps have modes, with the two most common being Letdown Mode (otherwise known as Massage Mode, Stimulation Mode, or Initiation Mode) and Expression Mode. It is recommended to start your pumping sessions in Letdown mode, which typically has a faster suck pattern with a lower suction strength to encourage milk to begin to flow. This frequent nipple stimulation and stretching from the pattern in a Letdown Mode helps your body release oxytocin – often called the love hormone – which stimulates the release of milk. Once milk flow begins, Expression Mode is then used to collect the milk with a slower suck pattern and the option of higher suction strength.

    Fun fact: Oxytocin is also responsible for stimulating contractions during labor!

    Terms to Consider:

    • Cycle (speed)
      • Measured in CPM= Cycles (or pulls) Per Minute
    • Vacuum/Level (strength)
      • Measured in mmHg, represented by a negative number
    • Letdown/Stimulation/Massage/Initiation
      • Mode or settings used to stimulate milk to begin flowing
    • Expression
      • Mode or settings used to express & collect milk after it begins to flow

    Examples: Cimilre S6, Lansinoh DiscreetDuo and Spectra SG Portable 

    So, what do these terms actually mean when using a pump?

    The wide variety of pump choices available allows everyone to choose a pump model that works best for their lifestyle and preferences. Whether you prefer a more user-friendly option or one with extensive customization, there are benefits to both. Pre-set pumps are often more intuitive and easier to use, while pumps with cycle speed control may have a bigger learning curve but offer more options to fine-tune settings.

    Breaking Down Mode Options

    • Pre-set CPM vs. CPM control
      • Some pump options have their cycle speed (CPM) pre-set for each vacuum level.
      • Others allow users to change the CPM independently from the vacuum level.
      • The Cimilre S7 allows for both options above!
    • Vacuum Levels and CPM Gaps
      • Each pump has its own unique spacing – or gaps – between vacuum strength and CPM levels.
        • Example: CPM may increase in increments of 5 (e.g., 60-65-70-75-80 CPM)
        • Example: Suction strength (measured in mmHg) may increase in increments of 20 (e.g., 120-140-160-180 mmHg)
      • Two pumps may share the same max mmHg, but the number of available levels may differ.
        • Examples:
          • Two pumps have a max of -280 mmHg:
            • One has 8 suction strength levels to choose from
            • One has 9 suction strength levels to choose from
          • Two pumps have a max of -285 mmHg:
            • One has 10 suction strength levels
            • One has 12 suction strength levels
          • As a result, the differences in suction strength between levels will vary across all of the above pumps!
        • Tip: Because of these variations, it is highly recommended to take it slow when trying out different speeds and strengths on a pump that is new to you!

    Mode Control

    Did you know it may be possible to have more than one letdown during a nursing session? Well, that is also true for pumping! While it is usually recommended to start in Letdown Mode and then switch to Expression mode, you can also start the process again if you find your milk flow has slowed down during a pumping session. This may help stimulate another significant flow of milk!

    • Most pumps can go back and forth between modes, some cannot.
    • Many pumps include an automatic switch from one mode to the other, after 1- 2 minutes or when they “sense” milk has started flowing.

    Outside of the two most common standard modes, many manufacturers have added extra options. However, no matter how many modes your pump includes, always start with the more traditional Letdown and Expression Modes as you get to know your body (and your pump!). Once you feel confident and comfortable, you can explore the additional modes your pump offers.

    Extra Mode Examples:

    If you are ever unsure about how to use your pump or just want to feel more confident in your pumping journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). They’re here to support you!

    You can also check out our Breast Pump Unboxing Series for a closer look at how different pumps work. These short videos walk through key features and setup tips to help you feel more prepared before your first session.

     

  • Understanding Mastitis: What Every Nursing Mom Needs to Know About the New Guidelines

    Understanding Mastitis: What Every Nursing Mom Needs to Know About the New Guidelines

    Mastitis is a common topic in support groups and can often be described in ways that sound overwhelming or even scary. In 2022, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) released a new Clinical Protocol, The Mastitis Spectrum #36, to help individuals better understand inflammation, mastitis, and their treatment options. Below we explore the new guidelines and steadfast recommendations for anyone experiencing inflammation, engorgement, and/or mastitis.

    Inflammation vs. Postpartum Engorgement

    Inflammation occurs when the milk sacs within the breast become very full. It can be uncomfortable and can occur on one or both sides. While inflammation could lead to mastitis, it doesn’t always.

    Postpartum Engorgement usually occurs between days 3-5 postpartum, when milk increases in volume during Lactogenesis II (the transition from colostrum to mature milk). It often affects both breasts and is caused by interstitial edema (extra fluid between cells, causing swelling) and hyperemia (a lot of blood vessels) in the area.

    Mastitis: Inflammatory vs. Bacterial

    All mastitis starts with the milk ducts narrowing due to inflammation, and this is referred to as inflammatory mastitis. If not addressed initially, it can develop into bacterial mastitis, which often requires further treatment options such as antibiotics. Bacterial mastitis can also develop through a wound on the chest, breast, and/or nipple.

    What to Do if You Think You Have Mastitis

    Know what is normal (and what’s not):

    Everyone’s chest or breast anatomy can be slightly different, but some signs may suggest something’s off:

    1. New lumps or bumps within your breast
    2. New breast discomfort in specific spots
    3. Redness with no external cause (like rubbing or massage)
    4. Hot to touch in targeted areas

    Important reminders

    It is important to know that your milk, breasts(s), and feeding are all safe for your baby when you have mastitis! In fact, continuing to nurse is helpful to move the milk, even with bacterial mastitis. Your baby will not become sick from ingesting your milk while you have mastitis.

    Although mastitis symptoms can come on quickly and can feel overwhelming, the best, and often hardest, thing to do is take a moment and not let yourself panic. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your lactation support (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant/IBCLC) with questions, but note that if you require antibiotics, those will be prescribed by your OBGYN/midwife/primary care provider. If possible, plan ahead and keep a list of best contacts for future concerns. Less to figure out in the moment!

    Keep track of your symptoms – when they start and any changes you know of leading up to the start of symptoms (like a new bra, missed feedings, or a change in schedule).

    On-demand feeding

    Mastitis and inflammation are often uncomfortable, but it is important to continue to nurse your baby on demand or follow your typical schedule as closely as possible. Do not space out any feedings or pumping sessions as this can make symptoms worse.

    Pumping considerations

    If you can avoid pumping and limit stimulation to direct nursing only, this may help reduce the chance of breast or nipple injury. If you are not able to avoid pumping, make sure to pump only to maintain supply and not to fully empty your breasts as this can make symptoms worse.

    Often, people will use their pump at a higher strength to try to “move” or “release” any milk they feel is “stuck,” but this is actually not a helpful practice. Using a strength that is too high can possibly cause pain, damage, and/or worsen inflammation.

    As always, ensure you are using the correct flange size for your body. Using a flange that is too large could cause more pain, damage, and/or make your symptoms worse.

    Cold vs. heat

    Heat was often recommended as a primary tool to help soothe discomfort due to inflammation and mastitis. The new guidelines recommend using cold therapy to help reduce inflammation and pain.

    Warmth can still be used if you find it helpful or comforting, such as taking a warm shower, but with moderation.

    The shift from heat to cold stems from concerns that heat may increase inflammation, potentially worsening mastitis symptoms.

    Bra Fit & Comfort

    Bras – whether standard, nursing, hands-free pumping, or combo options – can be incredibly helpful during your lactation journey. But if they do not fit correctly, they can work against you. Your bra shouldn’t feel too tight on your breasts or around your chest. Extra compression can disrupt normal milk flow by putting pressure on your milk ducts, potentially leading to inflammation. If you are uncomfortable in your bra, it’s best to swap it out.

    Underwire bras should also be avoided if they are too small or if the wire is digging into your chest or breast tissue.

    Massage & Hands On Pumping

    Avoid any deep massage to your chest, breasts, or nipples if you are experiencing inflammation or mastitis, as this could worsen inflammation and potentially cause further damage. Instead, gentle massage and hands-on pumping are great for helping move the lymph fluid within your breasts and helping reduce inflammation.

    Cleaning & Sterilization

    No need to change your routine for cleaning or sterilizing your pump and bottle parts if you have mastitis. You can follow the standard recommendations found in your pump user manual or the CDC guidelines.

    If you suspect engorgement or mastitis, especially if you have symptoms that persist for more than 24 hours, reach out to your OBGYN, Midwife, or IBCLC for more info or support. You know your body best – trust that and reach out when something doesn’t feel right.

    References

    For additional guidance and to explore the full recommendations mentioned in this blog, check out:

    1. ABM Parent Handouts – Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine
    2. ABM Clinical Protocol #36: The Mastitis Spectrum (2022, Revised)
      *This updated protocol replaces Protocol #4 (Mastitis) and Protocol #20 (Engorgement).

     

     

     

     

     

  • Manual vs. Silicone Breast Pumps: Which One Should You Choose?

    Manual vs. Silicone Breast Pumps: Which One Should You Choose?

    When you picture a breast pump, what comes to mind first? Chances are, it’s not a manual pump – also known as a hand pump. If you are exploring pump options now vs. 20+ years ago, electric pumps likely dominate your thoughts. While manual pumps often end up in the shadows to their electric counterparts, they can be incredibly useful for supporting your lactation journey!

    What is a Manual Breast Pump?

    A manual pump, also known as a hand pump, is a non-electric, single pump used for expressing milk. Using a lever or squeeze handle to create suction, the “motor” of the pump is your hand! Manual pumps often fall into three main categories:

    1. Traditional all-in-one – Includes everything you need to operate the pump and collect your milk.
    2. Handle-only add-on – A detachable handle that can be used with or in place of other parts from the same manufacturer’s other pump models.
    3. Silicone: A one-piece setup that uses passive and/or active milk collection.

    Manual-vs.-Silicone-Breast-Pumps

    Why Choose a Manual Pump?

    • Control – You get to be the motor, setting the pace and strength of the suction, depending on how fast, slow, hard, or soft you use the lever/handle. There are no predefined options, so you can truly follow your body’s lead!
    • Cost – With fewer parts, manual pumps are budget-friendly, typically costing between about $10-$35.
    • Battery/motor free – No need to worry about an outlet, charging, or replacing batteries because you are the motor! No power? No problem!
    • Size – Most are single-sided (for use on one side of the chest at a time in place of pumping both sides at once) and take up very little space. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to clean, making them a great choice for travel or on-the-go pumping.

    Does Flange Fit Still Matter?

    Yes, absolutely! The size of the flange is just as important with manual pumps! A proper fit is key to your comfort and milk output.

    Do Manual Pumps Have A Warranty?

    Manual and silicone pumps are often classified as accessories, meaning their return policies or guarantee warranties are usually shorter than a typical electric breast pump warranty (which typically last 1 to 2 years).  Depending on the brand, warranties for manual and silicone pumps often range from 14 to 90 days.

    Should a Manual Pump Be Your Only Pump?

    There is no real “should”- it depends on you, your needs, lifestyle, and preferences! Many parents use a manual pump as a back-up to an electric pump, or for the added flexibility, making them a great tool in certain situations (think power outages, battery failures, or when an electric pump isn’t as practical).

    How Do You Use a Manual Pump?

    Using a manual pump will follow the same general pattern as an electric pump:

    • Start by stimulating your milk to flow, with fast, light squeezes on the pump’s handle or lever. This mimics a baby’s natural suck rhythm.
    • Once your milk is flowing and you’ve had a let down, switch to slower, stronger or longer squeezes of the handle.
    • If double pumping, switch sides once milk flow slows or stops, or whenever you are ready move to the other side.

    How to use manual pump

    Each manual pump model may be slightly different in how they function. For example, the Medela Harmony Manual Pump handle has two levers for different pumping phases:

    • Top (shorter) lever: stimulates your milk to flow with shorter and faster squeezes.
    • Bottom (extended) lever: has a wider angle from the pump base, helping with longer, slower pulls/squeezes.

    Other brands will often have a single handle/lever that allows you to create both patterns.

    What About Silicone Pumps and Collection Devices?

    Haakaa Gen 2 Silicone Pump

    Silicone pumps and collection devices are similar to manual pumps but function quite differently. While they share key features such as being motor-free, battery-free, and typically more affordable, their fit and how they are used can vary.

    There are two main use-case scenarios with silicone pumps:

    1. Passive Milk Collection – Capturing milk drips that naturally occur without additional stimulation like chest massage or suction. This type of collection usually occurs while nursing or pumping on the opposite side.
    2. Active Milk Collection – Controlling the breast in a way to encourage more milk release and collection, typically by applying suction.

    Passive collection does not stimulate milk production, while active collection (using suction) can impact your milk supply.

    The Haakaa shown above, is an example of a silicone option that can either passively collect milk or actively apply suction to the breast for more milk removal, depending on how it is positioned.

    Does Fit matter for Silicone Pumps?

    When it comes to fitting silicone pumps and collection devices, your comfort is most important. Unlike a manual or electric pump, silicone pumps pull in the breast tissue, areola, and nipple as part of the suction process, and they do not have different flange/cup/shield sizes. If you are experiencing pain while using any silicone options, please contact an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) before continuing use.

    The number of options for expressing milk continues to grow! Deciding what to use is deeply personal. While electric pumps remain the most common, manual and silicone pumps are affordable, accessible, and are certainly worth trying.

    Watch Our Video!

    For a complete visual guide on manual and silicone pump use and helpful tips, check out our video here.

     

     

  • Acelleron Employees Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week 2021

    Acelleron Employees Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week 2021

    Acelleron employees share their breastfeeding and pumping experiences for World Breastfeeding Week to provide you with a little inspiration.

     

    A different journey for everyone

    Every parent, and even every baby, experiences a different breastfeeding and pumping journey. While it may require some flexibility and persistence, it is possible and well worth your efforts. We wanted to share some stories from our parents to help give you some encouragement for your journey.

     

    A little inspiration from parents at Acelleron

    “I have 3 kids (age 5, 3, and 4 months) so have been breastfeeding mostly for the last 5+ years straight. At this point, it has become part of my identity. Though it feels easy now, that wasn’t always the case. My original goal with my first born, Cora, was to try to breastfeed for 3 months. I took breastfeeding classes, obsessively researched the topic, and joined lactation Facebook groups to connect with other breastfeeding moms. When it came time to actually breastfeed, things didn’t go as I’d imagined it. Despite all the planning, we had latching issues, which resulted in extremely painful nursing sessions and cracked/bleeding nipples for a few weeks. Mix that with trying to heal in general from giving birth, and I felt like giving up. But, her loving gaze and deep connection I felt with her while nursing was something I didn’t want to lose. Family support and help from an IBCLC ultimately kept me going, and we eventually got the hang of it. I actually worked with an IBCLC every week for 4 months, which was invaluable, especially with other transitions like baby growth spurts, cluster feeding, and pumping and returning to work. My 3-month breastfeeding goal soon turned into 6 months, 9 months, and then 1 year. The more time went by, the easier it became. She ended up self-weaning right after turning 2 years old, which was 3 weeks before my second baby, Rose, was born.

    Breastfeeding with Rose was much easier at first, but I still relied on the support groups and resources from before. Each new baby can bring different challenges, and this time, we had to navigate food allergies and how my diet may be impacting her through my breastmilk. Between working with an allergist and an IBCLC, we were able to make modifications, and we went on to have a healthy breastfeeding relationship until she was 2.5 years old. At that point, I was pregnant with my 3rd child. This time around, I got a 5-month breastfeeding break before Philip was born. With him, I thought, “ok this will be like riding a bike.” Well, each baby and breastfeeding relationship is unique, and he was born with a tongue tie that impacted his latch, resulting in painful nursing sessions for me. The good news was he was transferring milk and gaining weight. We eventually got the tongue tie “released” and we’ve since had a great breastfeeding journey.

    The biggest takeaways and advice I have for other moms planning to breastfeed are to trust in yourself and your body, set small goals, and line up your support system ahead of time. Celebrate those small victories too! Joy, confidence, amazement, comfort, and love are some of the main feelings that come to mind when I think of my breastfeeding journey, so, even with the pain, tears, and exhaustion, breastfeeding each one of my kids has been so special and so worth it!”

    ~ Rebecca P.

     

    “Breastfeeding has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I am so grateful I embarked on this special journey with each of my three children. It’s not always easy and there sometimes can be actual blood, sweat and tears. However…there are those times, especially during the quiet late night feeds, when the whole world fades away and it’s just you and your baby. She feels safe, warm, nourished and comforted. You breathe in her sweet scent as she quietly nurses and feel the softness of her chubby little hand on your skin. You wish you could freeze this perfect moment in time. These are the moments that carry a mama through the tough ones. Breastfeeding is a gritty but beautiful business and for me, it has always been completely worth it.”

    ~ Jacqui P.

     

    “Breastfeeding and pumping has been a significant aspect of the upbringing of our two young children. It can be challenging at times, however the accessible pumps and accessories help Pumping moms complete this task while performing other daily tasks. My wife Brittany is passionate about breastfeeding and we both highly recommend it.”

    ~ Matt F.

     

    “Many people assume given my work and background that my lactation journey has always been easy. Yet, my first experience started off with pumping way before I expected to and meant triple feeding for the 1st 6 weeks PP. My biggest tip for anyone expecting is to find your support team before delivery (your preferred IBCLC and knowing how they are paid, what your hospital offers, and friends & family to lean on). You can reach your goals, but you do not need to do it alone. ❤”

    ~ Brittany R.

     

    “As a first-time mom, I was so lucky to have my breastfeeding journey start off perfectly. My baby latched immediately in the hospital, my milk came in like clockwork, and I never experienced pain or soreness. Sounds like a dream, right? So, imagine my shock when my milk supply plummeted at around 9-months postpartum. Suddenly I was pumping less than my baby was drinking at daycare, and my freezer-stash was dwindling. I was riddled with anxiety about making it to my goal of 1-year EBF and filled with dread at the thought of weaning. I knew I had to get serious about saving my supply, and so my breast pump became my best friend. While my baby was sleeping through the night, I was waking up at 2:30 AM for a power-pumping session. I was drinking more water than I ever thought possible. I was heating warm cloths and researching massage techniques for breast tissue for milk letdown stimulation. After about two weeks of pumping and nursing around the clock, my supply recovered, and I felt the waves of relief wash over me. Please know that if you are going through something similar, you do not have to give up on breastfeeding. This is your reminder that us moms are resilient. Breastfeeding is hard, but we can do hard things. Our breastfeeding goals are worth fighting for.”

    ~ Ashley M.

     

    “When I was breastfeeding, the only “pump” I found was a manual pump by Medela.  (Showing my age here!)  With my daughter, I had to return to work too soon, and we were not completely comfortable with the process.  With my son, ten years later, I breastfed for a year.  No pumping, though, as my son never would take a bottle.  It didn’t matter what was in the bottle, it was just a “no go”.  Medical challenges just kept us attached, quite literally, much of the time.  Reflux caused him to nurse more frequently.  I wouldn’t change a thing, though, about the experience, although bedding was changed multiple times daily 😊. “

    ~ Cathy H.

     

    “My determination to EBF has pushed me through the early morning and late-night pump sessions. Breastfeeding and pumping is one of the hardest jobs I have ever done! Yet, I am SO grateful to have had the experience with both of my kids. When I look into those sweet baby eyes of my little boy when he’s nursing or we snuggle up for those middle of the night feedings, it makes it all worth it.

    Remember to set realistic expectations, trust in your body, and enjoy those precious moments snuggled up.”

    ~ Tab Y.

     

    Free breastfeeding and chestfeeding education

    When you order your pump through us, you have access to a number of free resources to help you along the way. To help prepare you for your breastfeeding journey, take advantage of our breastfeeding education class. If you have questions about your pump, register for an “Unbox Your Pump” virtual consultation to get more comfortable and have a quick Q&A. Both are available in English and Spanish. We are rooting for you and want to support you as much as possible. You got this mama!

    Stories shared by Acelleron parents on the same journey as you.

  • When Should I Get My Breast Pump?

    When Should I Get My Breast Pump?

    Did you know that most insurances will allow you to receive your breast pump before your baby is born? Now, I know what you are thinking: I don’t need to pump until after my baby arrives! You are completely correct- pumping is not recommended or needed until after your baby’s arrival. Yet, there are reasons why it is helpful to have it ahead of time.

     

    Key benefits to receiving your breast pump before giving birth

     

    Get to know your pump
    When you get your pump through Acelleron, we offer a free “Unbox Your Pump” consultation to get you well on your way to knowing your pump. One of our pump experts will provide an overview of your pump with key features and benefits, what it comes with, how to setup and clean it, and provide you with some great tips and tricks!

    Reading the manual is also extremely helpful. This is something that many mothers skip but can be integral to a successful pumping experience. Every pump does the same thing (stimulates your nipples with suction to create milk flow/expression), but they all do it in different ways. Many pumps let you control the level of suction strength, some have let down buttons/modes, and others let you control the suction speed and strength simultaneously.

    There are different accessories, parts, and features to each pump; for example, a built-in night light, multiple flange sizes, carrying bags, and more. The manual that comes with your pump will outline what your pump comes with, how to use it, and how to care for it.

     

    Prepare your pump for use
    You know what most parents say is fun when you just got home from the hospital with a newborn? Boiling and sanitizing pump parts! Yeah right! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and every pump manufacturer have specific guidelines on cleaning and sanitizing your pump parts before use. Save yourself time by reviewing these guidelines and cleaning the pump parts ahead of time, which is one less thing to do before your baby is here.

     

    Carefully consider your pump options
    You may have a few options, or many, depending on your insurance and who you get your breast pump from. The decision will come down to a few main factors:

    • Your lifestyle: Traveling, going back to work, on-the-go, multiples, etc.
    • Your preferences: Manufacturer/brand, pump size, features, and accessories that it comes with.

    At Acelleron, our Customer Care Specialists and Certified Lactation Counselors carefully walk you through your choices and help you decide what pump may be best for you. We’ve also developed a breast pump selection guide that outlines the types of pumps, brands we offer, different parts of a breast pump, and features to consider before making your selection. Lastly, Acelleron hosts a FREE webinars in both English and Spanish where our Certified Lactation Counselor will walk you through how to choose and use the best breast pump and accessories for your needs and preferences, as well as pumping tips, tricks, and more! We want to ensure that mothers are making an informed and confident decision.

    We have heard from so many mothers that they chose their pump while still in the hospital. They felt rushed, overwhelmed, and expressed they may not have chosen the right pump. Even if you’re deciding between just two pump models, that can be very difficult after just giving birth to your baby. Most mothers are tired, overwhelmed, emotional, uncomfortable, busy with visitors, hungry, or in a general fog afterwards, so this is not the best time to decide on what breast pump to use. Many moms express that they did not really consider their options and may have just selected a pump, in-the-moment, to get it over with.

     

    When can I place my order?

     

    You can place your breast pump order with us at any time. We have received orders as early as pregnancy confirmation and as “late” as after the birth of a baby!

    Ordering ahead gives you time to decide on the best pump choice for you and peace of mind that everything is all set. Check it off your to-do list and let us handle the smaller details: getting your prescription, determining the shipping time-frame for your insurance, pump options, etc. We will keep in touch with you throughout the process through phone calls, emails, and texts, and you can reach out to our Customer Care Specialists and Certified Lactation Counselors at any time. While you are waiting for when your pump can ship, ask us about our free pumping and breastfeeding education options – hello free webinar and online education!

     

    So, when will your insurance allow your breast pump to be shipped?

     

    If you are unsure when your insurance plan will allow your pump to be shipped, give us a call at 978-738-9800, and we will walk you through the process. Acelleron will take care of everything so your breast pump will ship in the allowed time-frame, without needing you to call back in. When it does ship, you will be notified and sent an email with tracking* information.

    If your insurance has a guideline to wait until after birth to receive your pump, that’s no problem! We work with you to make sure your order is complete, so after you give birth, we can ship it right out to you. We ship Monday-Friday, and UPS will deliver 7 days a week to most areas across the country! We just need confirmation that your baby has arrived. If we have that confirmation by 2 pm, your pump may even be at your home before you are! It can be you, or anyone that you are with, that calls to inform us your baby is here. Save our number (978-738-9800) as “Breast Pump” in your phone for easy access.

    Bottom line?  You have enough to tend to with newborn and self-care once baby arrives! Check the breast pump off your list early!

     

    Written by Brittany Regan Fisher, Certified Lactation Counselor, Regional Account Coordinator at Acelleron, and mama of two.

    *Tracking information is only sent if we have a valid email on file.