This is a very frustrating topic for most of us who sell products to
mothers.  Personally I find the thought of sharing a used breastpump quite
disgusting.  Yes I do have an interest in selling more pumps because I would
like to stay in business and be here to help more mothers breastfeed.  I get
very frustrated with mothers who need a pump to continue to provide their
infant with their own milk, complaining about spending $250.00.  How much is
spent on bedding, swings, carriers(the bucket kind) nursery monitors wall
paper, paint, fabulous clothing.?  I tell women that it is a relitively short
time in your babys life that they can receive your milk, Surely this is worth
$250.00 if pumping is necessary!! ( and this is a whole other argument)  Lets
Also explore the costs of the alternative; FORMULA.  When you compare the
cost of getting a good pump to the costs of formula supplementation or
feeding, well there is no comparison.
     Even if you do not buy into the risk of contamination theory, What about
the mothers who are having supply problems and you try all the remedies you
know, they are ready to give up, and then you find out they are in fact using
a friends pump in style.  Oh, she only used it for FOUR babies she tells you,
it was one of the first ones ever made, These things should last forever!!
It costs $250.00 after all.  The fact is that if a mom does not know how the
pump should feel and perform at peak performance, as New ones perform she has
nothing to go by.  Surely I can't be the only one who has encountered this.

     I do sympathize with the mothers who have true financial need.  We have
WIC for them here that provides a good pump at no cost. Lactinas for moms
with preemies at no cost.  We need even more money and help for WIC to help
these mothers.  But as far as the majority of women who shop at my store, I
never reccomend sharing a pump or buying a used one.  I just don't think it
is a good idea.

     The most truly frustrating situation I encounter is the mom who brings
in her friends old used, filthy, pump in style, and wants ME to show her how
to clean it, and how to use it!!  FOR FREE.  I politely refuse.

[log in to unmask]  Jessica Donahue RN IBCLC
Expressly For You....  Everything for the nursing mother!
Makers of Express Pouch breastmilk storage bags
 <A HREF="http://www.expresslyforyou.com/">www.expresslyforyou.com</A>

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