Sunday, October 12, 2014
I've been pumping for 13 months come this Thursday.  I asked for a pump within 24 hours of my daughter being born because of latching issues.  It's been a very long road... but I believe pumping was the best choice for my daughter, I wanted her to be able to reap the benefits breastmilk provides.  Studies have shown that babies who consume breastmilk have lower chances of contracting many illnesses and infections. There are so many reasons to choose to breastfeed and pumping is considered breastfeeding!  I love the post "101 Reasons to Breastfeed" by ProMom HERE!
Pumping has never been something I'd tell you was enjoyable because I have to sit forward, hold onto the pump and try to relax to get a letdown. It's a pain in the back, neck and butt! I've struggled big time getting good letdowns.  I am always intrigued at pumping related products and when I came across Pumpin Pals, I couldn't wait to see if what they said was true.  Would I really be able to sit back and relax for once while pumping? The design looked so appealing, I could tell just by looking at the pictures online that the flanges were clearly different than what I had been using.  This is what the website says how the Super Shields can help:
  • eliminates constriction of milk ducts caused by traditional flanges
  • promotes better flow
  • reduces nipple irritation
  • helps users sit back in a more comfortable, natural position
  • considerably more comfortable than traditional flanges
  • can be used with hands-free systems
  • especially effective for new moms and c-section moms
  • aids in the prevention of mastitis and other breast infections caused by plugged ducts
Sounds good, right? Well you can tell that I was definitely thrilled when Jon, the creator of Pumpin Pals gave me the chance to offer a review of my experience using Pumpin Pals!
I received 3 different sizes of flanges, Extra Large, Large and Medium.  This is great so that you can find the right fit for you.  Most moms are able to use 2 out of the 3. No other company gives moms as many choices. The Super Shields by Pumpin Pals take in much more breast tissue than a traditional flange, and I first thought I should use the extra large.  But I realized after just a few moments using it that it really didn't feel quite right and decided to try the large.  It was perfect! My advice would be to try the large first then decide if you need to go up or down a size.  You do not want the tip of your nipple rubbing along the edge.  I can use all three sizes without this happening. If you're still in doubt, just read over the instructions included in your package for more information.  
I've used Medela pumps mostly but recently began using an Ameda Purely Yours as well.  Pumpin Pals is great because it works with any pump, pretty much.  It completely replaces the flanges in the Medela models and rests inside the flanges of the Ameda Purely Yours.  Just push the Super Shield in and give it a little twist to stay put.  I didn't have any troubles with it shifting in either pump.
Above is a photo of what it looks like in a Medela.
Below is what it looks like while using an Ameda Purely Yours.





I have to tell you that I felt very comfortable using Pumpin Pals! It is so nice to just lean back and relax! I had to turn up the suction quite a bit the first few times in order to "program" my brain that I was still pumping because it's so comfortable.  But after about 3 sessions of using Pumpin Pals,  I was gaining about 1/2 ounce per session in output!  This may not seem like much, but to me it really is! I've never been able to have very good letdowns when pumping.  Pumpin Pals Super Shields are much more comfortable, that you may have to have a few sessions to get used to them.  Your body should be able to come around and figure it out. 
I will say that I think it is EASIER to use Pumpin Pals with my Medela, but there was absolutely no difference in how well it worked between the two brands that I noticed. I just like having it all ready with no extra pieces to put in.  When you're an EP'er anything that is easier is better!
See how happy I am?  I love my Pumpin Pals! They deserve a 10/10 for sure!
 Would you like to win Pumpin Pals Super Shields?  Here's a chance!  Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter!  Open to US only. Must be 18 years of age or older.  Void where prohibited. Giveaway will run from 10/12/14-10/27/14.  The winner will be announced on this post, as well as emailed.  You will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be drawn.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
 Latched On Mom did not receive payment for the review which was given.  All opinions are my own, written by me.  I have no affiliation to the company, unless otherwise stated. This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or associated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or any other social media.

25 comments:

  1. That looks convenient, thanks for the product recommendation!

    Cheers!
    JoAnna
    foreverinparadise.net

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  2. Sounds like a great product if you can on pumping. There are so many great health benefits to breastfeeding it's great that you were able to find something to make this work for you and your daughter.

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  3. Sounds like a great product. When I have my next baby, I will get this product because I believe in the natural benefits of breastfeeding as well.

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  4. I loved my Medela. It was a life saver.

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  5. Where was this when I was breastfeeding?? lol I swear all the good stuff comes out when I don't need it anymore :( Great post!

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  6. Sounds like a great product. I will share it with my friends that are pregnant.

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  7. I pumped too & would have loved to have had these shields. They just look more comfortable! I know that's hard to imagine for some, but they really do, considering.

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  8. I was saw these online the other day and was considering buying them. I think after reading your review, I will order them! After the giveaway ends, of course, because I'm crossing my fingers that I win!!!!! I'm glad you included photos, because I was having a hard time visualizing how these worked. I have an Avent pump and I think the site said they work with Avent as long as it isn't an Avent Comfort pump. I also have a medela, but lately I've been using my Avent.

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  9. I've never heard of this. I had to pump for a while, and it was not fun. Way to go for doing it so long. I had the same issues you mentioned, so this sounds like a great product. If I need to pump again, I'll definitely keep this in mind!

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  10. I have strictly breastfed my babies. Not having to pump with my last 3 because they constantly nurse but they sound like a great resource.

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  11. great giveaway. pumping is hard work. you need to find the right fit for your nipple or it will hurt and you won't get as much milk.

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  12. As a CLC and a breastfeeding mom, it almost looks like those flanges are WAY too small!!!

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    Replies
    1. I'm using the large size, it feels the most comfortable to me. I started with the extra large and it didn't feel right. Much more breast tissue is involved in these flanges, which may make it seem to look smaller. I recommend you trying some, or getting some for your clients to try and see it in person.

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  13. Wow I know a Mom who needs this. She is having so much trouble. Honestly, I'm glad those days are over for me. However, I will tell my friend about this post. Thanks!

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  14. I will have to share this with my sister. She has a similar problem. Thanks for sharing.

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  15. I used Medela pumps when my kids were babies too. Definitely an older version of what you have here, but always great products. Happy to hear they still are, they're a life saver!

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  16. When breastfeeding when my girls, I usually EBF! I am going to share this with a few friends.

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  17. It is so great that you continue to 'breastfeed' even though you are pumping. Always good to give kids a healthy start.

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  18. I'm going to recuse myself from posting on this one, definitely out of my jurisdiction lol.

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  19. I was blessed to have lots of milk too and I have Medela. Pump as often and as long as you want! I'll support you! :) BF-ed for 20months. :)

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  20. What an easy way to pump your breast milk! I'm glad it's also comfortable.

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  21. I never breastfed, and always wondered how comfortable it would be. thank you for sharing.

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  22. I am happy that you find the comfortable way for Pumping. Honestly speaking it is good for both, mother and a baby.

    Fan R @TeddyOutReady

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  23. Where was this when I needed it, then again my last child didn't want to drink from a bottle til after he was one, but I'm still breastfeeding him though.

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