Pumping Milk
Is a unique experience for every person that pumps. The effectiveness of pumping is multifaceted and includes the quality of the pump, fit of the flanges, technique, psychological state, and any physiological or medical history that can impact milk production.
How We Test Pumps at The Lactation Place
We have one of our providers or interns use the pump for at least one month and for some pumps it has been for up to six months. We also lend closed system pumps out to our clients and ask them to use them for at least a month, if they work well for them, and get their feedback on their user experience.
Important Basic Pumping Recommendations
Starting out with a properly fitting flange is crucial to the effectiveness of any pumping effort. Lubrication of the flanges ensures a more comfortable fit and anything that improves the fit of the flanges optimizes pumping output. Think about it, when a baby nurses their saliva lubricates the nipple and areola while the baby engages in suckling and prompting the milk ejection reflex to expel milk from the breast/chest.
We recommend a hands-free pumping bra for all wired pumps since this allows you to use your hands to apply positive pressure by massaging the breast/chest while pumping, much as babies are designed to do while they nurse. This is why babies always want to reach out for the target and hold for massage the breast/chest.
Unimom Opera Hospital-Grade Double Electric Milk Pump
Is a compact hospital-grade pump with a dual motor. This dual motor allows you to personalize suction levels for each side during each pumping session for more effective milk removal. There are four modes, synchronous (both sides), alternate (one and then the other), single L (Left) and single R (Right). An added bonus for the Opera pump is that the Massage/Let Down Mode has various cycle levels that help you tailor your sessions to what works best for you, not many other pumps offer this option.
Portability
It is light and compact in size compared to other current models and the handle makes it more portable than many other wired pumps on the market. It is quiet when in use and has a rechargeable battery. Its smaller size allows you to fit it into smaller bags or medium size purses. It is a closed system which makes is multi-user friendly. It has a nightlight with three different modes.
Functionality
The Opera pump has no App but its display screen makes it easy to know your setting and length of pumping session. It can be used for every and any type of pumping session regardless of location. The ability to customize suction for each side and the various cycle/suction levels on Massage/Let Down Mode and Express Mode help the user achieve a more individualized experience which can be more effective for many.
Opera Pump Accesories
The pump comes with the standard accessories most pumps include. It provides two sets of two flanges in sizes 24 and 27. Sadly, most manufacturers have still not caught on to the fact that most individuals that pump are between a size 15 and 19 and can as small as a 10. This is why is it essential, as previously mentioned, to be properly fitted for the correct flange size. It also has two black-flow protectors with two diaphragms, two tubes and two duckbill valves. The pump includes two bottles with disks and caps. Lastly, the Opera pump is compatible with Motif and Spectra parts without the need of an adapter.
Bottom Line
Our resident pumping Queen, Ashley, found the pumping experience to be comfortable for her, of course she used expertly sized flanges and lubricated with organic coconut oil. This is one of our most popular lending pumps in our practice and have had clients with single and twin babies borrow it from one month to 8 months. While each person had a unique experience with the Opera pump, all agree that the suction was more comfortable while still being effective than the other pumps they use. Every also agreed on the portability and how much lighter it is making it easier to move from room to room in their homes while pumping.
The Unimom Opera Hospital-Grade Double Electric Pump is not going to the best option for every single person that pumps milk. No pump ever will be. It is definitely an excellent option for many. Some pump providers are now offering it with no cost to you and others with a premium or co-pay for which you can use your health savings account.
We believe the Opera pump is a great option whether you need to increase or establish your production, are going back to work, or you are exclusively pumping. Pumping is a great commitment and not easy to do so we salute all of you out there putting in the hard work.