Pumping Made Easy

Did you know that August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month? I'm glad to know that there's an entire month dedicated to this wonderful art. But no matter what month it is, it's always a good time to help educate women on breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to feed your baby, yet sometimes moms feel like they do all the work. Why not pump and let Dad or another caregiver share in the bonding that occurs during feeding? Here are a couple of great finds designed to make pumping a little easier on a mama:

When it comes to breast pumps, they are not all created equally. Some are more comfortable and efficient than others. PJ's Comfort Breast Pump ($525 - $725) is a hospital grade pump designed by women, for women. Weighing in at just a pound and a half, this comfortable and portable pump includes such great features as a filter between the kit and pump to prevent bacteria, viruses and milk from entering the pump (thus preventing cross contamination, Sof touch(tm) silicone collapsible cups with self-adjusting vacuum and cycle knobs, and a built-in timer to track elapsed time helps a mother relax while pumping.

PJ's Comfort Breast Pump comes with either a versatile tote that quickly converts from over-the-shoulder bag to backpack or an executive tote with many extra accessories.

Pump Ease is a clever contraption designed to let you pump from both sides at once, while freeing up your hands (oh, the many things you could do...). Pump Ease ($29 - $34) is a support band that you wear over your nursing bra (or go au naturel) and ensures proper alignment for ease of milk flow. It's comfortable and easy to use, and fastens with a hook that adjusts to your changing breast size. Designed to work with all single or double breast pumps with no attachments necessary.