Tag: breastfeeding

Every expecting parent deserves a joyful pregnancy journey. However, too many Black and brown women and birthing people are robbed of this joy, instead often facing the kind of bias that leads to disproportionate risks.

In the U.S., Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, and these outcomes aren’t tied to income, education, or location. It’s a painful reality shaped by medical racism, implicit bias, and lack of culturally competent care. From being unheard during doctor appointments, to pain levels being dismissed during delivery, to experiencing other forms of biased treatment, the disparities in maternal healthcare are real and dangerous. These issues are not just statistics; they are lived experiences, and they require urgent, community-driven solutions.

That’s where Irth™ comes in.

Irth (as in “birth” but without the “b” for bias) is a groundbreaking, non-profit, digital platform where Black and brown women and birthing people can find and leave reviews of OB/GYNs, birthing hospitals, and pediatricians. Think of Irth as a “Yelp” for Black maternal health but community-powered and mission-driven.

“I created Irth because I wish I had it when I was giving birth,” says founder Kimberly Seals Allers, an internationally recognized maternal health advocate, former senior editor at Essence magazine, and author of The Big Letdown–How Medicine, Big Business & Feminism Undermine Breastfeeding (St. Martins Press). “I went to a hospital that was very highly rated on every media list, but none of those sources considered how I would be treated as a Black woman who was, at the time, unmarried, and in graduate school with basic health insurance. Instead of the joy of being a first-time mom, I walked out feeling disrespected, dismissed, and disgusted. I deserved better.”

Now, Irth works to improve the maternal healthcare system for all.  On the back end, Irth’s anonymized reviews are turned into robust patient experience data to work directly with hospitals, payers, and providers to help them provide more respectful and equitable care. Irth’s innovative Birth Without Bias™ Hospital Improvement Program is now active in eight hospitals across six states including New York, California, and Minnesota.

“We want every mama and birthing person to get the five-star birth experience they deserve regardless of race, ethnicity, language proficiency, marital status, or insurance type. And we’re driving more accountability and transparency within health systems,” adds Seals Allers, who is also a co-founder of Black Breastfeeding Week.

Users can leave reviews of prenatal appointments, birthing experiences, postpartum visits, and pediatric appointments up until the baby’s first birthday. Irth’ Crown Rewards program allows users to earn points for leaving reviews, which can be redeemed for discounts and for cash in 15 cities. Irth’s new Crown Community is an in-app birthworker-led digital village, where parents can ask questions and get answers from other parents and birth professionals.

The birthing track asks questions about the doctors, nurses, and lactation consultants in the experience. “Hospitals are ground zero for lactation support, and those early interactions can impact breastfeeding duration,” notes Seals Allers.

Every voice matters. If you’re a Black or brown birthing person, share your experience on Irth. Your review could change someone’s birth story — or even save a life.

Irth is a non-profit, grant-funded project of Narrative Nation Inc., a New York City-based technology and media non-profit that creates narrative-centered digital & media products to address racial disparities in maternal and infant health. Narrative Nation also produces Birthright, a podcast showcasing joyful Black birthing stories to disrupt the doom and gloom narrative common in mainstream media coverage of Black maternal health. Narrative Nation is the fiscal sponsor for Black Breastfeeding Week, held annually August 25-31, the only national awareness campaign focused on optimal infant feeding in the Black community. The 2025 theme for BBW, now in its 14th year, is Boots on the Ground.

You can learn more and explore Irth’s mission at irthapp.org.

Follow @theIrthApp and @iamKSealsAllers on Instagram, Facebook, & X.

This guest blog was contributed by Irth™, a nonprofit app working to improve birth and breastfeeding experiences for Black and brown families.

If you’ve decided that holding standard flanges to your chest for about 15 minutes every time you pump just isn’t for you, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about some alternative options: hands-free collection cups and wearable breast pumps.

Wearable pumps and hands-free collection cups, may seem like the same thing, and while the terms are often used interchangeably, they’re not exactly the same. Think of it like this: all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares. Similarly, all wearable pumps are hands-free, but not all hands-free pumps are fully wearable. They have some clear differences and few similarities, so let’s break it all down.

Portability

• Hands-free collection cups
  These cups tuck into your bra, but still require the use of tubing and a separate motor. The motor might be clipped to your waistband or placed nearby.
• Wearable pumps
  Fully wearable options have the pump motor and collection system all in-bra, making them a fully integrated unit.
• Both options have a built-in rechargeable battery, but most cannot operate while plugged in for charging – something to keep in mind for busy days or travel.

Discretion

• Hands-free collection cups
  Often smaller and lower profile, these cups may be less noticeable inside your bra. However, the tubing must run out of the top or bottom of your shirt to connect to the pump motor, which can make it more visible.
• Wearable pumps
  Because they house the motor inside the unit, they may be more obvious under clothing, often projecting further out from the chest and possibly taller or wider to accommodate the motor and collection.
• Both options typically have very quiet motors.

Control/Bluetooth

The ability to control suction strength, speed, and modes is important when choosing a pump. Many hands-free and wearable options now come with Bluetooth functionality, allowing for more control via smartphone apps. These features may include:

• Tracking pumping sessions (time, duration)
• Controlling pumping sessions (changing modes, suction strength, and more)
• Volume estimates showing how much milk you’ve collected during pumping sessions
• Auto shut-off when the collection container is full

Storage Capacity

When comparing pumps, consider how much milk the collection container holds:

• What is the max fluid capacity for the collection container?
• Are the containers clearly marked with mL and oz?
• The right capacity depends on many factors: singleton vs multiples, age of baby(ies), overall feeding needs, etc.
• The bigger the container, the more it may show when being worn under clothing, with or without tubing.

Examples: Elvie Double Electric Wearable Breast Pump, Lansinoh DiscreetDuo Wearable Pump, Medela Freestyle Hands-free Breast Pump

Cleaning/Parts

How easy a pump is to clean and maintain can make a big difference in your daily routine. Be sure to consider assembly, part availability, and cleaning guidelines before choosing.

• Ease of use: Consider how easy it is to put the pump and parts together, take them apart, clean them, and then reassemble.
• Warranty: What is the warranty and/or lifetime on the pump motor and required pump parts?
• Replacement parts: What is the lifespan of key parts, and can you access replacements easily? Can parts be purchased in stores or online, and/or are they covered through insurance?
• Compatibility: Many pumps that offer hands-free collection kits can also be used with standard flanges, but may require different tubing and/or buying the standard flanges separately.
• Cleaning guidelines: Each manufacturer has specific cleaning guidelines that may differ slightly from the overarching recommendations set out by the CDC. For example, some do not allow certain sterilization methods, like the dishwasher or certain sterilizers (microwave and/or stand-alone options).

Flange Fit and Sizing

Does flange sizing matter for wearable and hands-free options? Absolutely – possibly even more so.

• The shape and material of the flange are just as important as the size itself.
  • These flanges are different from standard ones, so be open to different sizing adjustments to ensure comfort and effective milk output.
  • Your body may react differently to hard plastic vs. silicone, depending on what the pump uses and what insert sizes are available.
  • Some pumps will come with hard flanges, but only offer smaller sizes as silicone inserts rather than full replacement flanges.
• Some wearables use a “continuous latch” design, never fully releasing the nipple.
  • These are the most portable of any wearable because even with movement, the nipple stays engaged.
  • Using the correct size is extremely important because the nipple is experiencing constant stimulation during every pumping session.

Cost Considerations

• Hands-free and wearable options typically cost more than traditional pump options, with ranges varying from less than $200 to $500+.
• All options require replacing parts over time to ensure the pump functions effectively, and some parts may not be covered by insurance.
• Some wearable pump models come with single-use milk storage bags, requiring additional out-of-pocket costs.

Pro Tip: Any Pump Can be “Hands-free”

With the help of a hands-free pumping bra, almost any pump model can become “hands-free.” The bra holds the flanges in place so you don’t have to – just make sure it fits well to maintain proper alignment and try to remain in a seated position while pumping. Even with most hands-free and wearable options, too much movement can interfere with the flange fit, alignment, and effectiveness, pumping bra or not.

What’s Next

Choosing between hands-free cups and wearable pumps really comes down to your lifestyle, comfort, and priorities. Think about where you’ll be pumping most often, how much mobility you want, and what feels best for your body. The right choice is the one that helps you pump effectively, fits your routine, and supports your feeding goals, whether that’s using one of these options occasionally for convenience or as a backup, or sticking with your primary pump for most sessions.

If you are still unsure which option works best for you, our pump experts can help. Visit our Education and Support page to connect with an IBCLC or CLC, explore our free on-demand Pump Exploration Webinar, or watch our Breast Pump Unboxing Series to see different pumps in action.

Those are some heavy words: letdown and trigger! Let’s talk about what this all means and make it a little more oxytocin-forward.

What actually makes milk flow?

There are two main hormones that directly affect breastfeeding: prolactin and oxytocin.

Oxytocin acts as both a hormone, released to the bloodstream, and a neurotransmitter, sending signals to the brain. It causes the cells around the alveoli (milk-making glands) to contract or push milk through the ducts, which should occur within the first minute of pumping.

Fun Fact: Oxytocin also helps the uterus contract!

3 Ways Our Bodies Get Oxytocin Flowing:

How Breast Pumps Get Oxytocin Flowing:

Nipple movement and stretching helps stimulate the release of oxytocin, a hormone that supports milk letdown. When using a breast pump, the vacuum creates a negative pressure, which pulls or suctions the nipple into a breast shield tunnel, helping with milk production. This is similar to a baby suckling but limited in its effectiveness when compared to a successful and strong latch for a parent and baby dyad.

How to Simulate to Stimulate When Pumping:

To help stimulate and release oxytocin while pumping, try recreating the experience of what might occur if you were to nurse your baby instead of pumping:

What Could Impact Your Milk Starting to Flow When Pumping

Did You Know?

Some people will have a sensation when their milk begins to flow, like tingling within the nipple, but others don’t feel it at all. There is no right or wrong, but don’t be surprised if you experience this sensation. It usually only lasts a few moments.

If you ever have concerns over your milk ejection reflex, pumping, or lactation in general, do not hesitate to reach out to a local International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for personalized support.

Image source: Figure 3, “Anatomy of the breast” from Session 2: The physiological basis of breastfeeding,Infant and Young Child Feeding: Model Chapter for Textbooks for Medical Students and Allied Health Professionals (World Health Organization, 2009). View original here.

Disclaimer: Image used for educational purposes only. Acelleron does not claim ownership. Content adapted from the World Health Organization via the National Library of Medicine (NCBI Bookshelf).

So, you have decided to look for a breast pump? Well, you don’t want just any breast pump. We recommend finding the best pump for your needs and lifestyle. Though opinions from family, friends, and influencers may be a small part of your research, it should not be the core focus of it. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the different types of breast pumps, the parts of a breast pump, the features to consider, as well as additional accessories and support on your journey to find the right fit for you.

3 Types of Breast Pumps:

Parts of a Breast Pump

While thinking about how to decide which pump is best for you, it is important to know the basic parts of a breast pump and how they may play into your decision.

Flanges/Breast Shields

Flanges and breast shields are cone shaped cups with a tunnel that fit over your nipple and areola, an essential component that creates a seal between your breast and the pump. They come in various sizes and connect to your collection bottle, as well as other parts. Pumps will come with at least 1 size set of flanges, but other sizes are available. It is important to get the correct size flange/shield for optimal stimulation, comfort, and expression.

Inserts are used to adapt a standard flange size to better fit within a flange/shield to reduce the tunnel opening and are typically silicone. Flange fit can change depending on what type of flange, shield, or insert you use. In addition, your flange size can change throughout your breastfeeding journey.

Membranes & Valves

Small, flexible parts, and typically silicone, breast pump membranes and valves aid in the suction and vacuum seal needed to allow milk to flow into the collection bottle while pumping. This pulls the nipples, stimulating lactation. Some membranes also stop expressed milk from flowing back into the pump motor. They should be replaced regularly, as their flexibility and durability wear down over time, which impacts suction and milk output.

Tubing

The tubing connects the pump motor to the collection kit, supporting the suction process. It is important to keep the tubing clean and dry to prevent mold and ensure effective suction. Only air belongs in the tubing – no milk! Some models use adapters on one or both ends of the tubing to connect to the different parts of the pump. Note: fully wearable pumps do not have any tubing.

Pump Motor

The main “control system” that creates the suction that helps to draw out your milk from the breast. The suction level and cycle rate should be adjustable to control the intensity and rate at which the pump pulls and releases.

Collection Containers

Bottles or storage bags that directly attach to the pump to collect expressed milk. Not all collection containers are compatible with all pumps, so check with the manufacturer. Some companies make bottle adapters to collect milk in different bottle sizes or storage bags.

Power Source

All electric pumps run on a power cord, a battery back, or both. The length of the power cord varies depending on the pump models. Battery options include AA internal, external battery pack, and internal rechargeable.

Features to Consider

There are many different parts of a breast pump, but there are even more opinions on how to decide between breast pumps, or which is best! To keep YOU at the focus of this decision, we have broken down what to consider into two tiers. The first tier includes features we believe to be the most important to consider. The second tier includes features that are also important, but meant to narrow down tier one top choices or reinforce one you may have already chosen.

Tier 1

Suction/Cycle Settings

Breast pumps are designed to mimic a baby’s natural nursing rhythm by both the suction pressure (mmHg) and the suckling speed (cycles per minute, CPM). Most pumps have different modes and phases to help guide you through pumping sessions. You can decide how much control you prefer to have by choosing a pump that has more preset settings, or one that lets you customize and fine-tune the settings further.

Portability

Pump weight, size, and power source options all contribute to portability. Are you planning to carry the pump back-and-forth to work or school? Consider a lightweight or smaller sized pump. Will access to an electric outlet be a concern? A pump with a car adaptor, or that can be run on battery power, may be useful. For extra flexibility, hands-free and/or wearable options may be suitable for your lifestyle.

Tier 2

Warranty

Most warranties cover a length of time (e.g. 1 to 2 years). If you’ll be using your pump often or have goals regarding your overall length of lactation, aim for a longer warranty.

Extra Parts/Accessories/Guarantees

Some pumps come with additional flange sizes, a carry case/bag, extra parts, or cooler packs. How easy will it be to obtain replacement or spare parts – can parts be found in store, online, or both? What other resources does the pump manufacturer offer to support you on your pumping journey? For example, some manufacturers may offer guidance on trying and obtaining different flange sizes.

Other Features

What options does the display have – timers, strength and cycle indicators, touchscreen, backlit? Would a nightlight be helpful for your pumping sessions, whether to light up the area around the pump or above, too? How important is app connectivity to track, control, and/or measure milk volume while pumping? Do you want the option to customize your pump to match your style more? Try a pump with personalization/skin decals.

As with many decisions around pregnancy and parenting, advice is often shared and may be appreciated, but it is important not to solely rely on how a pump worked for someone else. Everyone reacts to pumps in different ways, and each individual has their own separate lactation goals.

If you ever need help with your breast pump or breast/chest feeding in general, please reach out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

What’s Next

If you are still not sure which breast pump to choose, we’ve got you covered! Watch our Breast Pump Unboxing Series on YouTube, register for our free on-demand Pump Exploration Webinar, or check out our Breast Pump Selection Guide to help you make the best choice for you. When you’re ready, you can order your pump here!