https://boards.hellobee.com/ Pregnancy, Baby and Parenting blog, by Hellobee en Sun, 12 Apr 2026 11:33:40 +0000 https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/free-breast-pumps#post-2925617 Tue, 30 Nov 2021 19:57:41 +0000 LabradorLover 2925617@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Hi everyone! It’s been quite a while since I have posted, currently have a 2.5 month old baby girl and between her and my almost 3 year old daughter, I have very limited free time! :grin: </p> <p>I recently stopped nursing to keep myself sane and have 2 breast pumps available, one used and the other brand new. The Medela was used when I had my first daughter in 2019 but is still in great condition. The Spectra I ordered during this pregnancy to have an extra pump but I ended up never opening the box. If anyone on here needs an extra or a new pump, please reach out to me and I would be happy to figure out how to get it to you!</p> <p>Edited to add: I also have a bunch of Medela milk storage bottles, a ton of Lansinoh milk storage bags and a handful of nursing pads if someone needs those as well! I would just hate to toss the stuff if someone can use them.</p> <p>[attach=8518/21/r3ew06.600x500.A3409110-9635-4C9A-8CAB-AC60AEC2A764.jpeg]</p> <p>[attach=8518/21/r3ew07.600x450.F7DA84AD-E1E1-43F7-A308-B9CAE1F11A5A.jpeg]</p> <p>[attach=8518/21/r3ew08.577x600.5347A6AF-867A-42AB-9437-448EBCAC4712.jpeg]</p> <p>[attach=8518/21/r3ew09.567x600.A19F6C60-694A-458E-87B1-0DD6F1DD2CF6.jpeg] </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/best-breast-pump#post-2919468 Fri, 09 Oct 2020 14:43:39 +0000 MoonMoon 2919468@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>It's that time... I have to choose a breast pump. My insurance says I'm eligible for a "double electric breast pump" as long as their suppliers carry it.</p> <p>Which pumps worked or didn't work for you? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/spectra-s1-upgrade-with-unitedhealthcare-insurance#post-2874300 Thu, 28 Feb 2019 11:29:03 +0000 SupernovaJ 2874300@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm currently pregnant and have been looking into ordering my breast pump which is covered through insurance (I have UHC). While the Spectra S2 model is covered completely, I'd like to upgrade to the S1 model and pay the difference out of pocket (the S1 has a chargeable battery and is therefore portable). I honestly didn't even know you had the option to "upgrade" -- I know I am totally behind the times!</p> <p>After doing some digging, I learned there are several additional DME providers who are contracted with insurance companies that provide breast pumps--these are companies in addition to the usual ones your insurance will tell you to contact over the phone with national accounts (ie: Edge Park, Byram, etc.). I've been shopping around and thought it'd be helpful to share the best pricing I've come across. Note: This pricing is particular for UnitedHealthcare coverage only. Prices can be even lower if you're with another insurance provider. In fact, relative to other providers, I've noticed UHC doesn't offer the best breast pump coverage. </p> <p>Currently, the S1 is sold at certain retailers and reputable online sites direct-to-consumer for ~$160. I believe Target is offering the sale price of $160. You might be able to find it even cheaper. And below is a list of out-of-pocket pricing if you're looking to upgrade to the Spectra S1 model via UHC insurance.</p> <p>Milk Moms - $56<br /> Edwards Healthcare - $80<br /> Aeroflow - $135 (not worth it, similar retail)<br /> Better Living Now - $168 (not worth it, similar to retail)<br /> Acelleron - Not contracted with UHC<br /> Pumping Essentials – Not contracted with UHC<br /> Westside Medical Supply – Not contracted with UHC</p> <p>I'm sure there are several more distributors but these are the ones that came up in my initial google search. My question is, have any of you found better pricing than Milk Moms?</p> <p>Edgepark, McKesson, and Byram were the three distributors my insurance company referred, however they only offer the Spectra S2 for UHC patients and unfortunately, there was no option to upgrade to the S1. Just thought I'd share for anyone who may be interested. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/breast-pumps-2#post-2900462 Thu, 24 Oct 2019 10:30:12 +0000 Clementine12 2900462@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I had a Spectra S1 with my daughter and liked it. I am due in 2 months with DD2 and its time to start thinking about a pump.</p> <p>I will return to work 12 weeks pp and be pumping 4 days a week for 9 months at least (or, thats my plan). 3ish sessions a day. I have a private office I pump in, and I commute in my car, so size and privacy aren't huge concerns. I didn't have great supply with DD and was supplementing at 6 mos.</p> <p>I see there is a new kid or 2 on the block, so to speak. </p> <p>Has anyone tried Motif? The Luna or Duo.</p> <p>What about the Elvie? It's a heafty upcharge but if it's a miracle worker...</p> <p>Thank you in advance! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/help-me-pick-a-breast-pump-1#post-2899778 Wed, 16 Oct 2019 20:32:37 +0000 bees_knees 2899778@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My insurance recently expanded their pump options (all covered at 100%...yay!)....but now I don't know what to pick. I'm a SAHM, have above average milk supply, and rarely pump but have never had issues getting lots of milk in a fairly short pump session. I've only ever used a Medela PISA in the past, but I'm definitely looking for something more compact this time!</p> <p>My choices include:<br /> Medela PISA<br /> Ameda Finesse, Purely Yours, Mya<br /> Hygeia Joye<br /> Motif Duo or Luna<br /> Spectra S2 or S9<br /> Evenflo<br /> Lansinoh (not sure on the specific models for these)</p> <p>I feel spoiled having such a list! I think I'm leaning towards an S9? But I have literally no idea. Someone choose for me :silly: </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/pump-parts-in-the-fridge-cdc#post-2868121 Tue, 22 Jan 2019 13:04:21 +0000 Mrsbells 2868121@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My LC mentioned to me that the CDC now recommends that pump parts be washed after each pumping session and so storing them in thr fridge between pumping is not recommended. She said bacteria can build up on the parts ib thr fridge. I looked online and saw the guidelines were released when a premature infant got an infection but in that case the pump parts were left soaking in water for several hours.</p> <p>I am exclusive pumper with 2 older kids and the idea of washing my parts after each pumping session is just too much for me. What do you pumping moms do? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/breast-pump-help#post-2868227 Tue, 22 Jan 2019 17:03:32 +0000 Jess1483 2868227@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I am pregnant with #3. With each of my first two pregnancies, I ordered (through insurance) a double electric breast pump. I never used them. I have a terrible oversupply problem and generally speaking don't pump much (and then only with a manual pump). I also have high lipase, so I have to treat any milk I pump. I will be home with baby for quite awhile (like, generally would never leave for more than one feeding) and won't go back to work full-time until she's probably no more than a morning and night nurser. I still have one of the double electric pumps downstairs (no idea which) and I gave the other away.</p> <p>With that said, I have a ton of options for a breast pump this time, but am intrigued by a single electric pump for a few reasons:<br /> 1) It looks like I could move around with it. I often nurse baby, put them down, and then pump while getting things done (one-handed...) A double electric mostly looks like I'd need to stay in one place.<br /> 2) It seems like less of a hassle, which is the reason I never used either of my other two DE pumps... That and I was intimidated.<br /> 3) I don't necessarily want/need something with a lot of "stimulation." Pumping can make the oversupply worse.</p> <p>But I'm still having trouble pulling the trigger to order the single electric. Maybe because I'm feeling like it's a waste, when I could get a "better" pump for free? Like maybe I should just buy the single electric and get the double electric for free in case things are different this time? But then I do have that pump in the basement.</p> <p>Thoughts? These would be the ones I'm choosing between:<br /> <a href="https://aeroflowbreastpumps.com/evenflo-single-electric-breast-pump" rel="nofollow">https://aeroflowbreastpumps.com/evenflo-single-electric-breast-pump</a><br /> <a href="https://aeroflowbreastpumps.com/spectra-s2-breast-pump" rel="nofollow">https://aeroflowbreastpumps.com/spectra-s2-breast-pump</a> </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/pump-in-style-vs-sonata-and-freestyle#post-2834329 Mon, 16 Jul 2018 16:34:13 +0000 Mrsbells 2834329@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Help me choose one. Looks like the freestyle is the lightest weight. I like the look of the pump in style especially with the backpack. The sonata seems to be the newest most techy option with led display and a bunch of other cool features and is the most quiet option. Has anyone used it? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/deciding-between-medela-pisa-and-spectra-2#post-2856445 Tue, 13 Nov 2018 15:45:58 +0000 LindsayInNY 2856445@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm really torn here. I used a Medela PISA with my daughter. I had two - one for home, one for work. I have all the parts, bottles for pumping, etc. I'm tempted to get another Medela PISA for this baby because I know what to expect, have everything, it worked for a year. But I've heard good things about Spectra? The "perks" I've heard of Spectra don't really apply... I don't need it to be quiet - I have a pumping room and rarely am on calls while pumping. I don't need to travel with it (at least I don't plan to?). So sell me one way or the other... Do I really NEED the Spectra this time? Should I just stick with what works? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/free-to-a-good-home#post-2856583 Wed, 14 Nov 2018 10:59:56 +0000 LCTBQE 2856583@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Been meaning to post this for a while—Brand new and never touched set of Spectra pumping parts. I have the S2, not sure if it would also work with the S1. Any takers? I’ll gladly mail them to you free of charge :) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/do-you-own-a-bottle-sterilizer#post-2850902 Fri, 12 Oct 2018 10:53:41 +0000 Mrsbells 2850902@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>For my 1st two kiddos I just used boiling water on the stove to sterilize parts and bottles. But I didn't sterilize very often. I'm wondering whether I should invest in an electric sterilizer or the plastic reusable microwave sterilizer. I had thought about the microwave bags but I'd rather use something more reusable. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/recommendations-for-a-pumping-and-nursing-bra#post-2851027 Fri, 12 Oct 2018 21:35:23 +0000 buttermilk 2851027@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Hi! Anybody have a recommendation for an everyday bra I can wear for both nursing and pumping? I had one of those strapless zip-front pumping bras with my last baby and was constantly taking it on and off. This time I would prefer a crossover style bra that allows me to both nurse and pump, one I can keep on all day. </p> <p>Essential Relaxed Pump&amp;Nurse Nursing Bra with built in hands-free pumping bra - Black, M <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GU1P5ZI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.BvWBb43GQ9D7" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GU1P5ZI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.BvWBb43GQ9D7</a></p> <p>I found this one on amazon which seems exactly like what I want but doesn’t have the best reviews for quality. Anybody used it or have another to recommend? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/how-often-do-you-sanitize-pump-parts#post-2850759 Thu, 11 Oct 2018 17:57:09 +0000 Mrsbells 2850759@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>With my 1st two kiddos I sanitize the pump before first use and then every now and then. I notices that the medela pump instructions say they should be sanitized once a day which seems a lot to me. Do you sanitize every day? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/spectra-s9-or-s2#post-2849833 Mon, 08 Oct 2018 12:51:08 +0000 lindseykaye 2849833@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I've been reading some prior posts on the Spectra brand but wanted to see if anyone has experience with both the S9 and the S2 - or if anyone can weigh in on what they might pick in my situation to give me perspective and help me decide which way to go.</p> <p>Both the Spectra S9 and the S2 are covered by my insurance. I would need to pay a little extra for the S2 ($30) but I'm not too worried about that. I've been reading a ton and it seems like I'm stuck between the two options based on the below differences.<br /> For background, I travel for work pretty frequently (via air travel - about every 1.5 months) and would be doing so while breastfeeding, as well as probably bringing my pump back and forth to work daily. I have my pump from my last pregnancy I could use at home to avoid the daily back and forth but figured I would just bring everything to/from for consistency. I have both my own office and a mother's room available where I work. My last pump, which I was super happy with, was the Ameda Purely Yours - which has a closed system like the Spectra, was light weight, and had variable speed/suction options. This one isn't on the list for being covered or I might have just gotten another one - but I have heard so many great things about Spectra in the years since and due to my preference for a closed system that's where I'm looking now.</p> <p>S9 Pros - Super small, lightweight (0.5 lb). Rechargeable battery power option.<br /> S9 Cons - Does not have independently variable speed/suction. Slightly lower suction capacity (300 vs. 320 mmHg). Can't find reviews on how loud/quiet it is.</p> <p>S2 Pros - Has independently variable speed/suction. Slightly higher suction capacity. Apparently very quiet. Comes with a new pumping bag (but I do have a pump bag at home I could use).<br /> S2 Cons - Much heavier than the S9 or my pump from my last baby (2.5 lb vs. 0.5lb S9 and 1lb last pump).</p> <p>So, which would you choose? Anyone have experience with both? Will I regret choosing smaller/lighter/battery convenience for travel over the variable speed or slightly higher suction? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/medela-pump-parts-problem#post-2840850 Tue, 21 Aug 2018 12:54:42 +0000 agold 2840850@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm back at it again with pumping round the clock for my second baby now that I'm back at work and I'm having a huge problem I didn't have before! Milk and moisture is going into the tubing! This is disgusting and the tubes are pretty darn expensive to be replacing constantly. </p> <p>I think the problem is with the the "connectors" that require the tubing to be placed into the back, as opposed to the top. I cannot find any "top-loading" connectors on the internet to purchase. So my questions are this: do any of you girls have this problem with milk/moisture/mold in the tubing? How do you prevent it? Do you wash your tubing? Lastly, does anyone have any top-loading connectors that I can buy from them??? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/milk-in-tubes-with-medela-pumps#post-2834239 Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:45:13 +0000 Mrsbells 2834239@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>For those of you who have used Medela pumps full time. How often does milk actually get into the tubing? Do you just keep spare tubing handy? Or do you just attempt to clean them?<br /> In my past two pregnancies I have avoided the medela pump and chosen closed system pumps that have a actual barrier preventing milk from being able to get into the tubing but now my employer insurance is only offering medela pumps.<br /> I have used a medela pump at the hospital and thought it was great other than the valves seeming to be very delicate. But I am not sure if a personal pump would be similar </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/freezing-milk-with-dry-ice#post-2834015 Sat, 14 Jul 2018 20:34:23 +0000 Hypatia 2834015@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>There's a good chance I'll be pumping while on vacation next year, and the only thing we'll have access to is a mini fridge without a freezer compartment. Has anyone tried to freeze their milk with an insulated cooler of dry ice?</p> <p>Dry ice has a temp of -109.3, so it seems like it should be able to freeze bags of breastmilk, especially if I chilled them in the fridge first. </p> <p>Has anyone experimented with this? I don't want to be forced to dump a ton of breastmilk (we'll be gone five days with a long car ride so I doubt it'd last unfrozen). </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/spectra-vs-medela-freestyle#post-2828285 Wed, 13 Jun 2018 20:34:31 +0000 LCTBQE 2828285@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Has anyone tried both, or does anyone have a strong opinion here? I got the Freestyle last time and liked it (loved how it fit in my robe pocket, commuter friendly, etc) but have heard good things about the Spectra S2. </p> <p>I was initially going to get a second Freestyle with my insurance just to not overthink it and have matching parts, but if you think the Spectra is better I'd love to hear why. Greater output or anything really significant?? Is it as portable? </p> <p>Last time around I used the pump starting around 8 weeks and had a not-great nurser, I work FT and ended up alllllmost being EP by about 5 months, and I pumped 4x a day until I quit at 12 months, so, the Freestyle got quite a lot of use. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/did-you-get-significantly-different-output-with-different-pumps#post-2810673 Mon, 19 Mar 2018 15:39:45 +0000 periwinklebee 2810673@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm considering buying a pump to keep at my office, to avoid having to lug it back and forth on public transit everyday, and also have been somewhat disappointed with my pumping output thus far, though who knows if I can do better. </p> <p>If you've used multiple pumps, did you find a particular brand/model more effective? Looking for recommendations, now that I'm not constrained by what insurance will cover... </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/spectra-s2-parts#post-2807663 Sun, 04 Mar 2018 23:43:55 +0000 CatchAFallingStar 2807663@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I can’t seem to find pump parts online for the Spectra S2. Amazon only has generics. Any suggestions? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/large-pumping-bra#post-2806453 Mon, 26 Feb 2018 22:59:33 +0000 CatchAFallingStar 2806453@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Any recommendations for pumping bras for larger breasts? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/how-many-pumps-did-you-own#post-2803969 Tue, 13 Feb 2018 13:48:01 +0000 nanilani 2803969@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Any other moms out there (especially WOHMs or EPers) want all the pumps? How many did you end up with and use reguarly?</p> <p>I'm putting together a (private) registry for baby #2 for the completion discount and am trying to talk myself out of adding the Freestyle b/c I already have two double electrics to start with. I still have the PISA I used for over a year with DS (need to buy new parts) and a brand new Sonata I got through insurance. But the Freestyle would be so easy to carry around on odd outings! I pumped 3+ times a days for a little over 13 months with DS, so it sounds so nice to have a pump for work (Sonata), a pump for home (PISA), and a travel pump (Freestyle) this time around. The Spectra sounds amazing too if I weren't so invested in all the Medela accessories :silly: Breast pumps are covered by my FSA, so it feels like it's "free" to get a third pump even though I know it's not really. Has anyone else out there amassed a collection or am I crazy? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/did-you-need-same-size-pump-shields-for-subsequent-pregnancies#post-2803900 Tue, 13 Feb 2018 11:04:46 +0000 SweetiePie 2803900@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Getting pump parts ready and I only have the 27mm from last time. Did you use same size with each baby? Wondering if I should order next size up just in case (no way I’ll need smaller). </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/willow-pump-has-anyone-used-it-yet#post-2802051 Sun, 04 Feb 2018 21:40:24 +0000 808love 2802051@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I nursed for two years but only pumped for one of those years. This amazing Willow Pump invention sounds cool. Almost makes me want to have another....lol. Almost. <a href="https://shop.willowpump.com/products/the-willow-pump?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7qT78t6N2QIVBd5kCh1iQwV3EAEYASAAEgJrGPD_BwE" rel="nofollow">https://shop.willowpump.com/products/the-willow-pump?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7qT78t6N2QIVBd5kCh1iQwV3EAEYASAAEgJrGPD_BwE</a> </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/new-gear-alert-awesome-new-pumping-bag#post-2801684 Fri, 02 Feb 2018 15:43:11 +0000 MsMini 2801684@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I just saw this in my Facebook feed and it looks AMAZING for working and pumping Mommas! Just thought I would share! </p> <p><a href="https://www.skiphop.com/skiphop-diaper-bags-pump-bag/V_182500.html?dwvar_V__182500_size=NS&#038;dwvar_V__182500_color=Color#q=pump&#038;prefn1=websiteBrand&#038;prefv1=Skip%2BHop&#038;start=1?cm_mmc=SocialMedia_SkipHop-_-Facebook-_-Pump%20Bag-_-2022018&#038;cvosrc=Social%20Network.Facebook.Pump%20Bag" rel="nofollow">https://www.skiphop.com/skiphop-diaper-bags-pump-bag/V_182500.html?dwvar_V__182500_size=NS&#038;dwvar_V__182500_color=Color#q=pump&#038;prefn1=websiteBrand&#038;prefv1=Skip%2BHop&#038;start=1?cm_mmc=SocialMedia_SkipHop-_-Facebook-_-Pump%20Bag-_-2022018&#038;cvosrc=Social%20Network.Facebook.Pump%20Bag</a> </p> [attach=1297/18/p3jiw0.337x600.3C257F87-0558-4FDD-A167-2FFBB2D2BE93.png] https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/breast-pump-repair#post-2800385 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 17:18:15 +0000 rattles 2800385@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Has anyone ever had their breast pump serviced? I got a new pump for my third baby, and after a handful of uses, it just stopped turning on. It'll be plugged in, and the power button just doesn't do anything. I'm trying to think of who might be able to take a look at it. Small appliance repairs don't seem like a thing these days. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/which-pump-from-insurance-i-realize-this-was-just-asked#post-2797503 Tue, 16 Jan 2018 17:51:35 +0000 CatchAFallingStar 2797503@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Sorry to repeat a recent question posted by @honeydew. My selection is a little different from hers. Which would you recommend? </p> <p>Thank you! </p> <p>Ameda Finesse<br /> Evenflo Deluxe<br /> Medela pump in style advanced<br /> Hygeia Enjoye<br /> Spectra S2 </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/old-medela-pisa#post-2797093 Mon, 15 Jan 2018 13:18:28 +0000 Honeydew 2797093@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I may have answered my own question, I have an old Medela PISA, I'm about to order a new pump through my insurance.<br /> For (work purposes), would I be able to use my old pump still or should I just chuck it? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/can-you-use-pisa-parts-with-a-freestyle#post-2797219 Mon, 15 Jan 2018 20:15:02 +0000 DesertDreams88 2797219@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Just what it says.... Can you use PISA parts with a freestyle? Specifically, can the Freestyle tubing connect to PISA parts?</p> <p>I plan to call Medela customer service sometime this week but I think they might give me the "safe" answer of no, make sure you always use the exact parts for the exact pumps, etc. But I have WAY too many PISA parts to just ditch them!</p> <p>I know the bottles are compatible and the detachable breastshield is the same, but the part where it connects to the tubing looks so different.... </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/lansinoh-or-mam-adapter-for-medela-pump#post-2796971 Sun, 14 Jan 2018 20:49:25 +0000 DesertDreams88 2796971@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Are there ANY adapters that will let me use Lansinoh / MAM bottles with the Medela Freestyle?? I thought I had found one but it was too big, very bummed! LO1 preferred Lansinoh nipples/bottles but I had a Medela pump so I spent a year pouring and washing extras :( don't want to do that again!</p> <p>I posted in the exclusively pumping Facebook group, but didn't get any replies, so I figured I would try here </p>