Breastpumps - buying second hand?

Question

I just recently started considering getting one and I'm wondering what the thoughts are of buying one second hand? Is this a gross idea or totally fine with a good sterilization?

Answer

Technically unless it is a closed system hospital grade pump, (I.e. Can't buy in store) you aren't supposed to share them. Something about milk getting into the motor and contaminating the next users supply or something Like that. That being said, I'm sure people do it a lot so it's just a calculated risk. Also the insurance thing is true, if you have it, you get a pump for free!

Answer

A second hand pump is not recommended unless it is a closed system. You can not sterilize the motor of an open system, and it's the motor that's vulnerable to getting moisture into it and growing mold. The pump itself can look clean and even if it's from someone you trust, it comes down to the inner parts of the pump, not the tubing or other external parts that come into contact with your skin. I hate that it comes down to a financial decision and that not having a kickass pump may limit some women from successfully breastfeeding for longer, but second hand pumps are risky for your baby.

Answer

My insurance will only give me a dinky little manual pump, and I wanted a good electric one since I'm having twins. I got a used one and just am replacing all the tubing with brand new, and running hot water through it as an extra measure to make sure it's clean. I think it's fine as long as you use new tubing or sterilize those parts.

Answer

Just buy new hoses and sterilize because you can't sterilize the hoses on Most FYI.  Less gross if you buy from a friend or relative.

Answer

Ask ur doctor to give u a priscription for it .

Answer

One of my really good friends bought hers from one of her friends. I thought it was ok since they knew each other. But me personally, I would want a brand new one.

Answer

Because of Obamacare, all pregnant women are entitled to get a free breast pump from their insurance. Give your insurance a call and find out how they do it. I have Kaiser so they give me one at one of my scheduled appointments but it sounds like for a lot of other women, they buy one and then their insurance reimburses them. That way you'll get a brand new one and not have to worry about where it's been. Hope this helps.

Answer

Unless it is a closed system that has been specifically designed for multiple users it is not recommended. Now insurances are supposed to cover a pump at no cost to you so you might want to call insurance to see where/how to get that - even cheaper than buying used and safer too.

Answer

I think it depends on the pump. If it's a closed system and you're able to get new parts for it bit may be worth looking into. Otherwise I would suggest looking at a new one.

Breastpumps - buying second hand?

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