Hospital Grade.
In the world of breast pumps, that term holds some weight. Most would assume a breast pump labeled hospital grade would be stronger, bigger, better. But is that really true? What is a hospital grade breast pump exactly?
It might surprise you to learn that the FDA does not recognize the term hospital grade when referring to breast pumps. Saying a pump is hospital grade typically meant that a pump could be used by more than one user so as long as they have their own attachments/accessories.
But there is some truth to the image we have regarding hospital grade pumps. The pumps used in actual hospitals are monsters. The Medela Symphony is a good example of that. Not only is the pump big but it is strong. It is often recommended for moms of premies or who are in the hospital or have a baby in the hospital to use the pump there. Moms who suffer from low supply may also be directed to a hospital grade pump by a Lactation Consultant for the strength of the pump to help them bring their supply up.
(Related: Have low supply? Find out how to increase it!)
So the suction strength of pumps labeled hospital grade will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer but it will always mean that the pump is for multiple users or is a closed system pump.
What is a Closed System Pump?
When it comes to personal use breast pumps, the pump will either be open or closed system. Hospital grade pumps will always be closed system pumps because of their ability to be used by more than one person.
All pumps have the same basic design. The pump motor, a tube that connects to the motor and a breast shield or flange, which then connects to the milk collection bottle. Closed system pumps have a barrier or diaphragm that keeps any pumped breast milk or particles from entering the tubing and thus, the pump motor.
Single use open system breast pumps should never be shared even with separate attachments because the breast milk can enter the pump and cross-contaminate the next user’s milk. There is also the possibility for mold build up if an open system pump is not properly cared for.
If you do need to rent or buy a hospital grade pump, you will need your own attachments (tubing, flanges, valves, diaphragms, collection bottles, etc). It is not sanitary to share these items with another mom.
To learn more about Open and Closed System Pumps, Click Here!
So, are Hospital Grade Pumps Stronger?
Medela Symphony
Despite the term “hospital grade” made to mean that a pump is a closed system, most companies do market their strongest and most durable pumps as hospital grade.
There are plenty of single user pumps that are closed system that the manufacturer does not label as hospital grade. The Ameda Purely Yours is a good example of that. Ameda does have a hospital grade pump as well, however, called the Ameda Elite. Obviously, both are closed systems but the Elite is the better, strong pump and was given the coveted ‘hospital grade’ label.
As I stated above, the Medela Symphony is a huge, powerful pump that is typically used in a hospital or by renting. It has a very expensive price tag, so probably not something a mom would go out and buy for casual pumping. There are more affordable and compact hospital grade pumps that have a good punch, as far as suction is concerned, like the Spectra S1 and S2. Both marketed as hospital grade and have the pump strength to back it up.
Overall, you will generally find the stronger, better pumps are marketed as hospital grade by the manufacturer.
Who Should Use a Hospital Grade Pump?
Because hospital grade pumps are for multiple users and typically come with stronger pump suction, moms who need help establishing, maintaining, or increasing their supply will get the most use of a hospital grade pump.
Lactation Consultants will often refer moms to use one if their supply is extremely low.
Moms of preemies who are in the NICU should start using a hospital grade pump soon after birth to bring in their milk and maintain their supply to not only supplement their baby but to keep pace while their baby grows so that eventually latching to the breast can take place.
Working moms or moms who will be away from their baby for extended periods of time also benefit from the strength of a hospital grade pump. Smaller, more compact hospital grade pumps like the Spectra S1 are a good choice for moms on the go.
Moms of multiples will often find a hospital grade pump is key to breastfeeding, especially in the early months as they are establishing their supply.
(Related: Need a Pumping Schedule? Get one here!)
Types of Hospital Grade Pumps and Where to Get Them
Most pump manufacturers have their own hospital grade versions. You can get your hands on these pumps in a few different ways:
- Buy one from a retailer
- Rent one
- Go through Insurance
- Use the one provided at the hospital (if your baby is in the hospital or preemie)
Most of the hospital grade pumps are much bigger and bulkier than the single user pumps. They also can be quite expensive depending on the pump. In most cases, the need for the big, powerful hospital pumps will be temporary.
Ameda Elite
Best Hospital Grade Pumps on the market today include:
You will find the prices vary (in an extreme way) among the pumps above. The Medela Symphony and Ameda Elite, for example, both can be bought online for over a $1,000. Not exactly affordable. Renting is probably the best option in situations where you need an extremely powerful pump. But that too can add up.
The Spectra S1, Limerick PJ’s Comfort, and Hygeia pumps are much more affordable. The Spectra S1 being the most economical. Any of those pumps would be an excellent choice for moms who need to pump often or have a low supply.
If you find yourself in need of a hospital grade pump, talking with your hospital or doctor is a good place to start. Most hospitals have them available for rent and will be able to connect with your insurance provider on any coverage you may be eligible for.
Spectra S1
For long term use, consider a less expensive hospital grade pump like the Hygeia or Spectra which would be more affordable if you bought one (renting would amount to more than the pump costs).
Have questions about hospital grade pumps? Drop me a comment below!
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Stumbled across this article while searching the web. Currently expecting my second baby, but struggled with milk supply and pumping with my first. My doula highly recommends getting a “hospital grade” pump and starting to pump on day one (I also had a breast reduction when I was a teenage which is part of the problem). This article really helped me understand the difference and to see why “hospital grade” could make a difference this time. Thank you! I’ve also started following you on Pinterest. 🙂
I am so glad you found this helpful, Amanda! Huge congrats on your baby! In the breast pump world, the term hospital-grade gets thrown around so much so I am happy I could provide some clarity! Best wishes on your pregnancy and birth and please reach out with any questions!
And thank you for the follow!
Hi! I’m looking for a good quality and strong
breast pump that is “commercial grade” as that is the criteria for my insurance to cover. I had a lot of trouble with low production on baby #1 and I only have 1 breast. Do you know if the Motif Luna double electric breast pump is commercial grade? If not is there another commercial grade pump that you recommend for me?
Thank you!
Riki
Hi Riki,
I would double-check with your insurance co on what their definition of “commercial grade” is. This could mean something different to them. For example, the Spectra S1 is listed as a “hospital grade” pump but in the hospital and lactation world, they would go with a manufacturer’s definition of hospital grade which would equate to their multi-user models. Calling a pump hospital grade can simply mean it’s a closed system. Manufacturers like Medela, for example, make specific models for multi-users that are used in the hospitals and to rent. The Medela Symphony is an example. So the point is that your insurance company might only approve a multi-user pump as designated by the manufacturer or they might be ok with simply a closed system “hospital grade” pump. Best to double-check! Ask for pump brands and models as examples!
I used a Medela Pump In Style with my son in 2017 after I returned to work 5 months postpartum and it worked ok for me, but my supply did decrease quite a bit over time. I am currently pregnant with twins, and due in early August. I want to get the best pump possible to be able to meet both of their needs, but my insurance won’t cover the rental of a hospital grade pump. My insurance will only cover the cost of double electric pumps from a DME (Byram, DME at Walmart, Edgepark, McKesson, or Medline). It looks like the Spectra S1 and S2 are options through a couple of the DME’s; which one of the two would you suggest I go with? I am able to work from home most days, so pumping at my office or in my car would likely be infrequent occurrences, and I do still have my Pump In Style for those instances.
Hi Allison! Huge congrats on your twins! How exciting!
Pumping and working takes a lot of dedication and I can completely relate to you and how your supply started to dip with your first baby. That is common, especially as your baby starts solids.
So out of the Spectra S1 and S2, I think in your situation, the S1 makes the most sense. They are the same pump. The big difference is that the S1 has a built-in rechargeable battery. Well worth it if you will be pumping in places like your car but also just to be able to move around and pump (I’ve pumped cooking or doing dishes, etc). The S2 can only be used plugged in so you are limited.
Some times insurance companies see the S1 as an upgrade and require you to pay some out of pocket for it. I would see if that’s the case and depending on that, I would still upgrade. But if it is a significant amount, then you can make the S2 work fine as you pointed out by using your Medela for on the go.
I hope this helps!
Hi. I currently have a Medela in style. I pump 4 times a day while at work. I am away from my son for 12.5 hours a day mon-thurs. I am averaging only 10oz while I am gone and was told I need to start him on formula because he has dropped to the 3 percentile in weight. Would I benefit from a hospital grade pump? And if so, which one would you recommend?
Hi Dani,
yeah, 10oz a day for over 12 hours is not enough unless you are supplementing (either from a freezer stash of breastmilk or formula). It certainly sounds like you can benefit from a hospital grade pump. I personally loved the Medela Symphony but I would first contact your insurance company and see if they will cover the cost of a rental. Hospital grade pumps can be extremely expensive so renting one for a few months is definitely a good idea.
I used this breast pump company (click here) for my last baby to contact my insurance co for me. It was very easy and is a free service (no catch, they are paid by insurance). You can try letting them handle it for you as their reps can answer all your questions about the pumps to help get you what you need.
I do highly recommend you see a Lactation Consultant though. They can do weighted feeds, assess you while pumping to help with fit, tips, troubleshooting, etc. Often the hospital you delivered at or your dr will have resources so start there. I do have a list of how to find one and other breastfeeding resources, here, so you can check those out as well (click here).
I also recommend you start pumping while at home as well to build up a stash and increase your milk supply. You can read more about how to build a stash, here. If you haven’t already, also sign up to get my free ebook on increasing your milk supply in 3 days. It has a ton of pumping tips that you could try as well (let me know if you have trouble and I can email you a copy).
Starting formula isn’t the end of the world. But there is a correct way to do so it won’t further decrease your supply. You can try first nursing your baby, then offer a bottle of formula. Then pump for at least 20 minutes while baby drinks the bottle to further stimulate your milk productions. (Anytime you offer a bottle, you need to pump or your supply will actually drop).
There are also supplemental nursing systems that you can use if you don’t have time to nurse, bottle feed, and then pump. The SNS allows you to run a small tube to the end of your breast and while your baby is nursing, they are being supplemented with formula or pumped milk (you can see more info on SNS, here). Great way to have baby at the breast while giving them the nutrition they need. I highly recommend it.
While baby is away from you, you can have your child care provider offer a few ounces of breast milk first and then formula or offer 2 bottles of breast milk and then the rest formula as needed. But again, you need to add pumping sessions either at work (you already said you are doing 4 so may not be feasible at work) or at home to make up for the formula.
I hope this helps! I know it can feel overwhelming so just one step at a time. Get a hospital grade pump if you can, see a lactation conultant, and pump and nurse as much as you can! Please let me know if I can help in any way!
What do you think is the best hospital-grade pump option for 2018/19?
Hi Emily,
This is a great question. The answer is going to depend on the type of pump you are looking for and need.
The best “hospital grade pump” for personal use at a price that is affordable would be the Spectra S1, hands-down. But if you have any issues with your milk supply, have a baby in the NICU, or other breastfeeding issues, you may need a very strong pump and in that case, I would recommend the Medela Symphony. As I said in the article, the Medela Symphony can be purchased but it’s super expensive, so moms are better off looking into renting one. At times insurance will cover that cost.
So unless you are having issues, I would definitely look into the Spectra S1! Hope this helps!
Is Hygeia better than Spectra S2?
Hi Diane!
Great question! The S2 and Hygeia Enjoye have a lot of differences so a lot of it will come down to preference. Let me break it down for you:
1 – Pump strength-wise, they are pretty close. The S2 maxes out at 280mmHG and the Enjoye at 250mmhg. So the S2 is slightly stronger.
2 – Portability- Both the S2 and the Enjoye only work when plugged in. They do not have an internal battery. The Enjoye does have an optional battery pack you can buy. The S2 does not (there are aftermarket solutions, however). Both models have upgrades if you want an internal rechargeable battery (Spectra S1 and Hygeia Enjoye Cordless).
3 – Milk Barrier – Both are closed system pumps but the Hygeia has the barrier between the pump motor and tubes which means the tubes need to be sanitized and cleaned often since milk can get into the tubing. The Spectra has the barrier at the flange and tubing so no need to sanitize the tubing.
4 – Accessories and Parts – Both come with limited accessories in the basic set. No tote or cooler bag unless you upgrade. Both spare parts are not readily available unless online. Both are on Amazon though.
5 – Pump Controls – The Enjoye had dials that you need to manually move to control the pump suctions and speed while the S2 is digital (and is backlit) and allows you to save your pump settings. The Enjoye does, however, have a unique feature in its Care Module which is a button that allows you to record your baby or use a prerecording of a crying baby to help your letdown.
6 – Price – If you are having to cover the cost yourself (not going through insurance), you might be surprised to know the S2 costs significantly less than the Enjoye.
Overall, both of these pumps are fantastic and will get the job done. If I had to choose between the two, I would probably go with the Spectra S2 based on the digital controls, price, and for the slightly stronger pump strength. If portability was an issue (if I needed to pump on the go lot), that would be enough to sway me to the Enjoye simply because it’s a great pump and easier to make portable than the S2.
Here is my full review of the Spectra S2 and the the Hygeia Enjoye. I hope this helps you narrow it down!
Hi! I’m so glad to have found your blog. I am going to heading back to work soon after having our first baby (she’s almost three months now.) The pump I’ve been using leaves a lot to be desired. It just doesn’t feel like it’s pumping all my milk out. Only hours later I have to pump again. My question to you is, since I’m going to be away from the baby 40+ hours a week, should I invest in a hospital grade pump?
Hi, congratulations on your baby! I am sorry your pump doesn’t seem to be doing the job. I am curious what pump you have. Not all moms who spend that amount of time away from their baby need a hospital grade pump. There are some great pumps that have a lot of strength that are not hospital grade. But if you already are using a strong pump and still having output issues, then I would suggest seeing a Lactation Consultant before investing in another pump. They can ensure your breast shields are fitting correctly, give you tips on how to work your pump correctly, and also determine if you need to step it up to a stronger pump like renting a true hospital grade pump like the Medela Symphony. If it is a supply issue, they will address that as well. Some moms don’t respond well to the pump and need the powerful strength of a higher end pump that you would likely want to rent vs buy but a Lactation Consultant would be a great resource to help determine that.
I am always a supporter of the Spectra S1 for working moms. One of the reasons I love it so much is not only is to a solid pump strength-wise but the price tag is amazing as well. You will see good results using the S1. But again, I think my recommendation would depend on knowing what you are currently using.
So, that was a very long way to say that, no, a hospital grade pump is not necessary just because you will be away all day but it might be necessary in some cases and there are some affordable hospital grade pumps if you do want to go that route. I hope that helps!