Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

Lena Loves… Medela Freestyle

By

If you’re breastfeeding, or thinking of breastfeeding (assuming you’re a mommy-to-be), chances are you’ve read up on the benefits of expressing milk. The common reasons women pump are to:

– Relieve engorgement when milk comes in
– Collect milk for feedings when working or away from home
– Increase or maintain the milk supply

– Prevent painful engorgement which can lead to mastitis
– Provide breast milk for a hospitalized or sick baby
– Stimulate relactation or induce lactation in an adoptive mother

Source: What to Expect the First Year

I hope you’ve been following my series A Tale of Two Boobs. If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that I made it my mission to breastfeed with Reid after I gave up too easily with Ryder. And while I’ve been successfully breastfeeding for 73 days (yes, I counted), it hasn’t always been easy – and I’m sure 99% of breastfeeding moms will say the same thing.

But there are ways to make it more manageable. My holy trinity? Determination (check), seeking the right help early on (check) and a high quality breast pump (check). And I LOVE my breast pump.

I was very fortunate to receive the Medela Freestyle hands free breast pump for review. For those in the know, this is the Cadillac of breast pumps. The Freestyle is Medela’s first hands-free, double-electric pump.

Features include:

– Daily use · double pump · electric
– True pumping mobility with hands-free option
– Rechargeable battery and ultra-lightweight motor
– Easy interaction with digital display, memory, timer and backlight
– More milk in less time with 2-Phase Expression technology
– Everything mom needs in a convenient bag – perfect for active moms
– Double pumping kit features SoftFit breastshields for massaging comfort
– All parts that come into contact with breastmilk are BPA/DEHP Free

Click here to see all the goodies that are included with the Freestyle.

Before I left the hospital, nurses suggested that I get my hands on a hospital grade breast pump to help stimulate my milk flow. Their recommendation? The Medela Symphony, of course. Even though I knew I had the Freestyle at home, I took their advice because I didn’t want to do anything to derail my efforts. I rented the Symphony for a week and figured I would take it from there.

At the end of the week, I was hesitant to let it go. My breast milk had come in fast and furious, and I credit pumping sessions with the Symphony for increasing my supply. However, when I compared the features of the two pumps, I realized that the Freestyle was on a level playing field due to it’s 2-Phase Expression Technology and Maximum Comfort Vacuum. So I said goodbye to the Symphony, ready to start a close relationship with the Medela Freestyle.

All I can say is WOW. The Freestyle is without doubt the answer to my prayers. Comfortable, easy to use and an expert at drawing out breast milk, I discovered with glee that I could express four (4) ounces of milk in just under ten minutes. Why I love it:

1. After sterilizing all the parts, I literally skimmed the instructions once before I was able to start pumping. It’s really that simple. The LCD screen and settings are clear and well placed. The memory button allows me to save my favourite pumping pattern for ease and efficiency for the next pumping session.

2. The Medela Freestyle is beyond comfortable. The pumping action very closely resembles the baby’s natural sucking rhythm thanks to the 2-Phase Expression. Babies change the way they suckle at a mother’s breast during breastfeeding. Initially, they suck rapidly to stimulate the milk ejection reflex (MER) and induce milk “let-down”. This phase is referred to as “Stimulation”. Once the milk starts flowing, they settle into a more relaxed sucking speed. This phase is called “Expression”. Medela pioneered this technology with the Symphony, and now this innovation is available in the three further models – the Freestyle, Pump in Style Advanced and Swing.

3. The pump is a champion. With electric double pumping action, it literally takes me less time to express a 4 oz feed than it would take me to wash, sterilize and prepare a bottle using powdered formula. And there is nothing more satisfying than seeing those bottles fill up with nourishment manufactured by mommy!

4. It’s tiny. The breast pump unit honestly fits into every purse I own – and the palm of my hand. Perfect for working mommies, when travelling, or even at home (who wants to have a huge contraption in the corner of a room?) And while it’s not whisper quiet, you can definitely carry on a normal conversation, watch TV, or even have baby sleep next to you while pumping (I find the rhythmic sounds actually help to calm Reid).

5. The Medela Freestyle has helped keep me sane. I can now leave the house for a few hours, knowing that there will be breast milk on hand for Reid. And, for those times that he cluster feeds throughout the night, daddy can administer a feeding thanks to frozen and thawed breast milk that I’ve previously pumped (my freezer is stocked with a 2-3 day supply – particularly handy for emergencies or just in case of illness).

At $400 the breast pump is not inexpensive (Cadillacs never are). Here’s my advice – rent the Symphony while you determine if breastfeeding works for you. The Symphony is the only breast pump which allows multiple users – all other pumps (including the Freestyle) are single user only. Therefore if you purchase the Freestyle off the bat and don’t follow through, you could be out a chunk of change.

HOWEVER, if breastfeeding is a go and you plan on expressing milk on a frequent basis – you don’t have to think twice. The PTPA Award Winning Medela Freestyle is for you. It is 100% Lena-Approved! Click here to learn more about this revolutionary product.

I am so very lucky to have received this item for review – and I’m happy to share some of that luck with you!

August 1st through 7th happens to be World Breastfeeding Week, and to celebrate, I’m giving away a Medela Freestyle (value $400)!

Prize includes: Attractive tote bag, Hands-Free Kit, 2 bra adapters, 2 replacement bra adapters – universal, 2 replacement bra adapters – hook & eye, Support belt & extension, 2 – 24 mm SoftFit breastshields, Breastshield Spare Parts Kit, 2 breastshield bodies; 2 membranes; 2 back caps, 1 set of tubing, 4 – 5 oz breastmilk bottles, lids & travel cap, Wide base slow flow nipple, Rechargeable lithium-ion battery, Power cord & charger, Contoured ice pack, Removable cooler carrier, Instructions & quick start card, Breastfeeding Information Guide

Now Medela has graciously offered me the chance to sit down with one of their lactation consultants for a Q&A session, so to enter this giveaway you can:

Post a question about breastfeeding/pumping you’d like me to ask
-or-
Tell us why you’d like to win the Medela Freestyle

(I’ll random pick 10 questions to pose to the lactation consultant.)

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment to claim your extra entry. Simply:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(2) Offer your best breastfeeding and/or pumping tip
(3) Tweet about this giveaway (here’s a tiny URL for you: http://tinyurl.com/32bhfn3)

I’ll draw for a winner at the end of August. Special thanks to Medela, and good luck everyone!

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. I had a very hard time when breastfeeding my first born! I thought I was doing great and then when I started to have some health complications my milk started to dry up and fast! I had to turn to formula to keep my 10 pound baby full and you know how it goes from there! I felt like a failure, not being able to feed my baby when everyone told me it was the best way!Expecting my second in October I would love ANYTHING that can help me be more successful this time around!

  2. I'd love a Medela Freestyle breast pump.I was able to breastfeed my first child for 20 months, returning to work after 12 month with no effect on supply.I had my second daughter July 5th, breastfeeding has been going well, but I am planning on returning to work in December and allowing my husband to stay home for 6 months with both of our girls.I know I'm going to need an awesome pump when I go back to work. I would be completely heartbroken if my second daughter wasn't given the opportunity to breastfeed as long as her older sister.

  7. My daughter is expecting her first child in January. I was a successful breast-feeding mama, but did not have the luxury of owning a breast pump. This would be a wonderful gift for her.

  8. I'm due at the beginning of October, and although I'm very granola… Breastfeeding has me very nervous. My nipples have always been very sensitive, so I'm already starting to fret about it. A coworker suggested this exact breast pump, but its just not in our budget at this time. I'm sure if I won it would be a real blessing.

  9. I breast feed my 1st child and had a Avent Manual hand pump. It was really hard to use and took forever to pump a bottle of milk for my daughter. To my horror I also found out that the pump contained BPA. I felt so bad exposing my daughter to the chemical. I noticed that one of the only pumps on the market at that time was the Medela that didn't have BPA in it. I swore that if I were to have another child that was the pump for me. So with my second child on the way, I would love the Medela Freestyle Pump.

  10. Expecting baby #2 and will be BFing! I have the medela harmony and it takes FOREVER to pump a bottle. I would be so grateful to win this pump to have a little more freedom with baby #2!Thanks Lena & Medela!!!

  11. From the beginning I new I wanted to breastfeed, then came baby. Right away the nurses told me he was going to be a challenge. He needed to stay in the hospital a few extra days which helped as the nurses were there each time to help feed him and they had me pump to get my milk started. Once we were home, I no longer had a the help of nurses and my milk supply was in overdrive. I continued for as long as I could but between the stress of baby not eating, the pain, and feeling like a failure I went out a purchased a medela pump. I purchased the Medela MiniElectric in hopes baby and I could work it out. However its only for occassional use and is now on the fritz. I would LOVE the Medela Freestyle to continue breastfeeding baby!

  13. I will be having our second baby in March and would love this pump as we only had a hand pump with our first. This one seems a lot easier!!

  15. This looks like a wonderful machine I would have loved this when I was breastfeeding would have made the whole breastfeeding thing go a little smoother. My sister is expecting next month and is going to breastfeed this would be a great addition for her!

  16. I would love to win this pump. My first child was jaundice when born and after a few days refused to latch on. Do to poor feeding and not latching we had to turn to formula, and with just a small single pump, I finally had to give up on trying to give him breast milk. I am pregnant again, and would love for anything to help me out so I can stick with breast feeding this new little one to come.jaimegreat at gmail dot com

  18. Great contest! I'm currently breastfeeding my 5 wk old and have a few bf'ing questions I'd love to see answered!- when is the best time to try and pump without fearing you're pumping away the baby's next meal?- how much should I be expecting to pump at a time – Lena mentions 4 oz bottles – is this the amount to start aiming for?

  20. Here's my pumping tip:(Because I use a single manual pump I can do this, I guess you couldn't with a dual pump) I take advantage of the let-down reflex and pump the other breast while my baby is feeding. This works for us as she only nurses one beast at a time, and I can guarantee at least getting a few let downs per pumping session.

  24. I would love to win a freestyle pump as I had to rent a double pump for our first child, and I'm due with our second in November!With our first babe I was one of the very few people who doesn't have enough milk and had to pump for 20 minutes after every feeding for the first 6 weeks and also go on the drug domperidone. It all helped increase my milk production and I breast fed successfully for 13 months. I'm hoping #2 is easier but a double pump would definitely come in handy!!!

  25. I would love this! As much as I loved my handpump for its convenience, now that my second baby is on the way, I don't have the time to afford to handpumping. I would love this handsfree model!

  26. I would like you to ask the lactation consultant if mothers commonly experience the same nursing issues with a second child that they have with their first.denimc{at}gmail{dot}com

  28. My best tip is to visit a lactation consultant if you are having issues. I am forever grateful to my public health nurse for pushing me to go – I thought I would figure it out on my own, but the advice and confidence of the lactation consultant improved things tremendously.denimc{at}gmail{dot}com

  32. I would like to win the Medela Freestyle because I know it's a fantastic product! My sister used another Medela breastpump (single pump), and she loved it. She hesitated to buy an "expensive" one (cost ~$200), but it was well worth the money for her.

  34. My best bf tip is to get your husband involved! When you are bf in the middle of the night have him help by changing diapers and getting babe back to sleep so you can be ready to be up again in a couple hours:)

  36. I would like to win a Medela Freestyle Breast Pump because I'm not sure I'll be able to take a full year off of work (I'm due Dec 19th). Therefore, I'll need to pump, Pump, PUMP if I need to go back to work early!

  38. My daughter wants to breastfeed and this is her first baby we have been looking at pumps this is a wonderful kit it would be amazing if i could win this for her

  39. I would love to win the Medela Freestyle! I am about to give birth to my second child at the end of August. I brestfed my first child for about a year. He was in the NICU for 10 days and we lived an hour away. I bought a cheap pump and pumped every 3 hours and drove the beastmilk an hour to the hospital everyday so he could have breastmilk instead of formula. I definately plan on breastfeeding my new baby too. It is free, and is the best for baby. My 5 year old son is SO smart, and I truely believe breastfeeding is a large contributer to that. My advice to breastfeeding newbies, is don't give up, it may be hard at first but it gets easier and becomes second nature, hang in there, your baby will thank you later. chalene8@yahoo.ca

  40. I would love to win this because I will be going back to work soon and I want my baby to continue to drink breast milk instead of giving her formula! With the breast pump, I will be able to pump breast milk while I am on my lunch/break!sweetpanda2010 at gmail dot com

  42. I think for breastfeeding tip, it is very important for new mom to drink lots of water and have enough rest in order to get enough milk supply!

  44. I would LOVE to win this pump! I have been exclusively breastfeeding my 3 month old since she was 5 days old … the first 5 were a nightmare and we ended up supplementing at first but through my determination we are now 100% boob … haha!! I currently have a manual pump … it was all we could afford and I find it is not very efficient but I continue to try and use it so I can have a small supply of milk in the freezer just in case. I would LOVE a more efficient pump!

  45. I've been pumping by hand for 21months (2 kids so far….) and are planning a kid free holiday away in October. This would make my job way easier!tuckersmith32 at yahoo dot com

  49. Best advice……Don't give up or try and think of a good reason why its not working…..it takes time! After a couple weeks, it'll be so easy!

  50. well this would be a great help to my daughter she is yougn and in her last year of school she is determined to breastfeed the baby and i encourage her 100% I want her and the baby to have a great frist experience and therefor would like every benefit in life to encourge a healthy attitude as for my tip on breastfeeding : Don't give up if the baby does not take to the breast right away don't get discouraged just keep trying, sometimes it just takes a little time Good Luck!!

  52. I would love love looove to win this pump!I am due to give birth to baby number 3 in about 5 weeks!I have a 5.5 year old, and a soon to be 2 year old running around, so any type of pump that will help be express quickly and effeciently would be a great great help.Unfortunately, I have just not had the budget to get an electrical pump, so I have used a manual pump with both kids. It is much more time consuming, then the electrical ones that I had a chance to use at the hospital.For those that have to use a manual and would like milk to flow fast, I stimulated "let down" but pulling at the OTHER nipple that was not attached to the pump. It really helped me out and got me fill up 4 oz easy peasy!

  53. By the way this is a great site and it is wonderful what you are doing for up coming mothers my daughter is very lucky to be living in these times where help is easier to come by, makes me feel like she is not alone if I can't help her figure something out torontomapleleaf29@rogers.com

  54. Reasons why I need a breastpump:1- Would like to pump when I go back to work2- I'm dying for a night out with adults only. If I could pump, I could leave my bubs with his grand-parents.3- I'm trying to get my milk supply up so I can reach my goal of breastfeeding 1+ year. Right now, it's dwindling.

  56. I would like to have this pump because I have a tough time breastfeeding – I have 2 inverted nipples, and the cheaper pump that I could afford just doesn't do the trick.

  59. Tip for breastfeeding:The thing I realize would have been very important to do from the beginning is work on my son's latch. He wasn't latching on properly but he was gaining almost a pound a week and I didn't feel any pain so I figured everything was fine. Well, my mistake is costing me at 4 months old because of his improper latch, my supply is decreasing and he gets mad when it doesn't flow as fast. So LATCH is super important for a long term breastfeeding goal.

  60. My tip is to pump your excess when the baby is done feeding. This will help to increase your supply, and works really well for people like me!

  64. Hi Lena,I love your blogs! I think I would be a great candidate for this pump as I start back to work in 1 week! I teach second grade so multitasking is a must! There is not a designated area for us mommys so all pumping is done in our classrooms, while students are at recess and lunch. Time is limited and there is rarely enough of it for me to pump enough for my son. In addition to that, during those breaks I still have things I need to prepare for the remaining activities. A handless, efficent pump would be ideal!!!Thanks for the imput and consideration. I look forward to reading more!

  65. My best breastfeeding tip – To get an equal amount of pumping in, I pumped while watching a half hour tv show… I'd do one side halfway through, and then the other side during the final half. Also, those little rubber bracelets to keep on your wrist, allow you to remember which breast you fed from last!!(Those other 2 Stephanie comments are from me as well oops!)slouttet(at)sympatico(dot)ca

  67. I would love to win a freestyle because I will be going back to work soon and I want to continue offering breastmilk. I have been exclusively breastfeeding for ten months and I would like to continue as long as possible.

  68. I would love to win this breast pump because I am exclusively pumping and my current pump is slowly dieing on me and we just don't have any extra money in our budget for a new one and this would really help me pump longer so I can continue to give my child the best!

  70. My tip for new moms is to switch things up. Make sure you alternate sides with each feed, but also try different positions. That way the baby can empty all the milk ducts, to help you avoid mastitis.

  71. I would love to win..I'm due in 12 weeks and only have a single pump right now and with a 13 mo old running around I think I will need to get a double pump.amandap122707 at yahoo dot com

  72. Well, I just found out I'm expecting my 3rd child. We couldnt be hppier. I've breast fed my first two, the first for 18months, and the second for 10 months(he was a biter). I've tried a few pumps to help, but none really worked well. I've heard about the Medela line but never had the chance to try it. Now is a better time than ever. I cant wait to start the breastfeeding bond with the new addition

  73. I would love the pump! I just had my 4th child. It is especially important for me to get out. I love breastfeeding and just need a way to get out with out having to worry about milk!

  74. When is the best time to pump? I'm currently breastfeeding our second child and I still haven't figured that out. Do I pump right after he's done eating even though I don't get much? Do I try to pump between feedings or will that decrease the amount for the next time he's ready to eat? Should I wake myself up in the middle of the night to pump since he's now sleeping through the night? You'd think that I would've figured this one out by now.

  75. i am pregnant with my third child in 3 years and have been reliant on pumping with my last 2 and assume it will be the same with the the third! this will help make my life that much easier especially with three kids under three!!

  76. I would love to win. I exclusively breastfeed my 2 month. I currenly pump by hand. Which gets tiring sometimes. Would love an easy way to express my milk.

  77. My best breastfeeding tip: Drink plenty of water, enjoy the extra snuggle time, be patient and don't give up. Sometimes it's hard. My first baby got teeth early and bit me until I'd bleed. His daddy would wake up in the middle of the night to me crying while feeding the little one. I feel like I somehow failed my baby by giving up so easily. Now that we've had our second child I find things much easier and I'm determined to breastfeed much longer. Get yourself a good pump though. I love Medela even though I only have a single handheld pump (I wish we could afford Freestyle). Either way, the pumping allows us moms to get some much needed "me" time and Medela helps us get that no matter which pump you get or the cost of it.

  79. When my 1st son was born, I was determined to breastfeed. He had to be admitted back into the hospital after 3 days and I couldn't nurse so I used the hospital grade Medela pump and it was wonderful. Even though I had tons of help trying to get my son and I to nurse, it never happened and I was an exclusive pumper for 6 months. Unfortunately, I had to give up my Medela pump at the hospital and use the "other" brand I had at home. It was a horrible 6 months of pumping and I missed that Medela every day! When my new baby is born I plan to nurse again and pump and having a Medela in my room would make life so much easier!

  80. I have heard amazing things about this breast pump and am pregnant with my second. I never had one with my first son and had to borrow whenever I needed one so I would love to win this!

  81. I had a c-secssion with our son and it took a long time for my milk to come in (I ended up renting a symphony for 3 weeks) but I have persevered and at 10 months my son is still happily breastfeed. I would love to win this pump for baby #2 to help make breastfeeding easier and so that daddy could feed the occational bottle.

  83. Use the lanoolin cream!! I had a hard time getting started and had really soar nipples (blistered and cracked = ouch!!). I found that cold compresses followed by a generous dab of the Medella Lanolin cream help a lot!

  84. I would love to win a Medela Freestyle Breast Pump. We are due in October and plan to breast feed/pump. Until lately we have been researching but have not made a purchase as of yet. We have only ever had a manual pump for our two other children. The Medela are pricey so winning is probably the only way we will be trying one out!

  85. I haven't had much trouble breast feeding… I guess you'd say I'm lucky in that sense, but I haven't had much success with pumping, so I'm pretty tied down to my babies until they've transistioned to bottles. With my daughter I breast fed until 13 months and I'm at 6 months now with my son. We are hoping to have a third down the road… that's possibly 3 years of my life being the only one to feed breast millk to my babies! This pump sounds great and maybe it would work for me too!!!!

  86. I would LOVE to own the Cadillac of breast pumps! I borrowed a friend's pump for our first son and it worked okay. However, EVERYONE suggested that I splurge and invest in a Medela for our second child. Please pick me!

  88. My best piece of advice is to not listen to anyone (unless maybe its their Dr.) that tells you your baby needs formula because they're too big.I breastfed my son for the first 6 months but I also supplemented w/ formula because he was 10lbs and well I didn't know any better.. the nurses really encouraged the formula. matter of fact they wouldn't even take him to the nursery at night to give me a break if they weren't able to give him formula. It made things really awkward for me and I was all alone at the hosp. I ended up giving in.. thankfully we got back on track when we got home but he was always supplemented due to my fear of him not eating enough.I'm expecting my 2nd boy next month and I would love to win this for him. I have a 2 yr old and I'm the only one home all week long. I'm hoping to build up a supply of breastmilk this time because I have NO intention of supplementing and I would like to be able to leave the house once in a while lol.Thanks for the great review and giveaway.detroit.mommy (at) gmail (dot) com

  91. My best advice. Stay hydrated! Although you may think you're drinking enough, you're probably not. It makes pumping and feeding so much easier.detroit.mommy (at) gmail (dot) com

  93. Great giveaway, I would love to win! With my first child I didn't get much milk in and I had to pump alot so this would be very helpful for the next baby.

  96. I'd love a medela freestyle! I used a medela double electric pump with my firstborn because I could not get him to latch on. I plan to try breastfeeding again with my second son, and would love to have the freestyle in case I am unable to breastfeed again.

  100. I just finished breastfeeding my second one….and I have to say I found the second time much easier. Maybe being a little less stressed about how to handle a baby, and some ideas of what breastfeeding would be about. My first one never did latch well, and after a month with the rental pump (definitely a great way to try it out before purchasing as Lena mentioned!) I bought a Medela pump in style. While I don't need to win a new breast pump, just wanted to get in on the discussion!! I love my Medela pump, so I'm sure the Freestyle is great like all their products. I pumped for 18 months with my first one and was happy I could give her breast milk for that long.My second was better, and after a month of struggling a bit, finally go into the swing of things, but it was nice to have a pump to save up some extra to get some mommy time to myself once in awhile…or use it for making cereal etc. The advice I have is don't give up too easily and don't feel bad if you have to go to formula. I found some nurses I saw weren't that sympathetic to a hormonal new mother who was just trying to figure out to feed their baby.

  101. I'd love to win because I am expecting our first and plan to breastfeed, yet I would still love to have my husband experience feedings as well (and maybe get more than 3 hours sleep in the beginning if he'll take over a night feeding with pumped milk!).

  102. I am a first time expecting mommy and breastfeeding is a whole new world to me. I know for sure that Medela was the brand I was going to buy, but after reading your review I don't think I can life without the freestyle! It seems amazing I love that its hands free and how light it is. The tote bag is stylish true to the other Medela's i have seen. I hope i win!!!!

  103. I am a first time expecting mommy and breastfeeding is a whole new world to me. I know for sure that Medela was the brand I was going to buy, but after reading your review I don't think I can life without the freestyle! It seems amazing I love that its hands free and how light it is. The tote bag is stylish true to the other Medela's i have seen. I hope i win!!!!

  104. This pump would be amazing, my current double pump can only be used as a single and is covered with duct tape. I like to be able to pump so that Daddy can help with feedings, especially when I have to go out.

  105. I would love to try an electric pump as I had a manual pump with my son and I found it took forever!! to get a bottle. Im hoping this would quicken the process.

  107. My Best pumping tip is to massage your breast first and get your milk flowing before you start to pump. I found this way I got a faster result and it didnt hurt my breasts as much.

  108. When I first had my son, I found it took forever to pump 5 oz's of breast milk for him. Then one night I only fed him on one side and then in the morning I pumped on the breast I didn't feed him on and wow…I had my 5 oz's in about 10 minutes or less. Amazing!

  112. I've been wondering about this question for a long time now! Okay, if I am brfeeding a toddler and am expecting another baby on the way, I know that I will still produce colostrum for the new baby. But is colostrum production time-dependent (as in, I will produce colostrum for x number of days) or quantity-dependent (as in, I will produce x volume of colostrum)? Does that make sense? I just never found a very satisfactory answer for this question.giabao.ng @ gmail

  115. Mendela saved my boobs in the hospital I tell ya…pumping like a mad feen to feed two hungry girls left little time to hold them inbetween feedings..but mendela got straight to its job so I could get back to the girls…thanks for such a great give away

  118. Even with my 2nd baby, I'm still uncomfortable breastfeeding in public. The Medela Freestyle breastpump would be awesome! I really don't like the one I currently have!

  119. I have 3 children, ages 6,3 and 9 months. I am still going strong on breastfeeding the 9 month old. She has had a dairy/soy allergy we have been dealing with since she was 3 months old, and since I decided to continue nursing for both her benefit and mine, I had to drastically change my diet. The special formula for dairy allergy babies is SO expensive, this just seemed the best choice all around! With my first baby, I was fortunate enough to own a Medela electric breastpump and I loved it! Well, being the generous person I am, I lent it to a friend of mine's girlfriend who shortly thereafter broke up and I never saw my pump again. With my second child, I breastfed as well, but used a manual pump that also converted to electric. Now this time along, all I was able to use was a borrowed single manual pump that doesn't even work half the time. I would be so full in the morning after my baby sleeping all nite, I would wake up to pump, and get 1 oz. because the pump didn't work properly. I stopped pumping due to that pump not working, and have just been manually expressing when I need to, using my hands. It's not fun! I would so greatly appreciate the oppurtunity to use a Medela pump again! I am planning to continue breastfeeding as long as I can- she loves it and so do I! Thank you!

  120. I would love to own an electric pump, the Medela looks great and I really appreciate the review! I had to toss my Avent Manual pump due to BPA concerns as well and I'm expecting my third in November so this would be a lifesaver!

  121. Breastfeeding is one of the most special moments I've had with my little one and I know how important a great pump can make! I'd love this for another mom who is expecting so she can have some wonderful experiences too!

  127. I'm due August 9th and I'd like to *win* a pump so I can continue to provide breastmilk for this baby when I go back to work!anita[dot]truck[at]gmail[dot]com

  129. My best tip for breastfeeding is to not be afraid to ask for help! It's not as "natural" and "easy" for some women. If you want to make it work, don't be afraid to ask a Lactation Consultant for help.anita[dot]truck[at]gmail[dot]com

  133. I'd love to win a Medela Freestyle!! I pumped for 10 months with my little one and it was so hard! Having the Freestyle would make things so much easier for baby #2!! :)

  135. My best tip(s) would be to relax and not stress over your milk supply especially in the beginning and pump often-that's the best way to get your milk supply up!! :)

  137. tip: no matter what dont give up and give it your best shot. I breastfed my daughter for 13 months and the first couple months were torture. I wish more people would have told me that it's not easy at the beginning. I pumped for 3 weeks straight and then put her back on and it wasn't painful anymore.

  143. i would love to win this as my sister is expecting and i had alot of breastfeeding trouble such as engorged breats and masititis , which i could have avoided with a pump, my son was jaundiced and to not have to go to formula i had to pump so they could monitor his fluid intake in the hospital, my sister also works so she will need a pump even more than i did , this would be the best present ever staceyx at telus dot net

  145. I think breastfeeding is so special and totally promote it. It would come in handy since im still nursing my 17month old son!

  146. I breastfeed my first baby and am planning the same for my second, due next March. With my first I found my pump very uncomfortable and NOISY! I'd love one that was more comfortable and quiet…

  147. my tip: easier letdown if you feed on one side and pump the other at the same time. works really well for me, lots of harvest!

  149. I would love to win this breast pump because when i first breastfed my first child we rented the medela pump from the hospital and loved it. We're going to have our second child soon and this would definitely help us out.

  153. I would love this pump! I work 4 days a week and only get two 15 minute breaks and a 30 minute lunch break to pump!! I could really use a double pump!!

  160. I just learned that a good friend is expecting her first baby in the new year and she is planning to breast feed. Would love to win this Medala Breast Pump set as it would be the perfect baby shower gift for the new mom-to-be.

  161. I have a baby shower coming up in a few months and the expectant mom has a medela breast pump ( a less expensive one ) on her gift registry. Would love to surprise her with the top-of-the line Medela pump and accessories from your contest.

  166. I would love to win this pump because my cousin is having reservations about nursing. I think she would pump and bottle feed- breastmilk is so much better, I think this would be a better option than using formula!amytulk2 (at) hotmail (dot) com

  168. I'm due in 8 weeks, and sooo excited to become a mom. The one thing that's terrifying me is breast feeding! Anything that can help make it easier is verrrry welcome!Thanks Lena for a great giveaway!

  170. I'd love to win the Freestyle! I'm registered for it but it is a necessity for me so would love to receive it for free!!!!!!!!!!!

  171. I don't have personal BF experience yet but a tip I've heard is to bring a picture of your LO to work (or anywhere else you need to pump without the baby around).

  175. My tip to all those expecting moms out there: if you are worried you wont be able to BF due to breast surgery (augmentation or reduction) don't worry yourself sick during the pregnancy. Do what you can to be prepared beforehand and consult a lactation consultant afterwards. I worried myself my whole pregnancy for nothing.

  181. I would love to win the Medela pump, because its something that I will definetly need to invest in before our first baby arrives in October, after reading your tale of the two boobs, I really want to give breastfeeding my 100% and I know this will help!

  184. I would like to win this because pumping always seemed like such a chore. I never had a pump that worked well. This sounds like it would really make it easier.dftrew(at)gmail(dot)com

  186. My sister has the freestyle, and I am insanely jealous! It sure beats the hand pump I use!!I pumped for both my girls when i returned to work, and as I am still nursing my younger one, I could use the relief that only comes with the freestyle.

  189. Can I say/ask both? :)First, I am having twins and I wonder what pump would be the best for me. I am really hoping that a Medela can help me keep up my supply…also, I'd like to win for my twins…I know it's going to be hard..and this pump might really help!! thanks!

  191. MY best tip- that I learned through the tears and pain with my toddler….is that IT IS WORTH IT. Don't quit..it WILL get better. You set a goal, and keep bumping that goal until you are home free. Once you're there, you know it!

  193. I would LOVE this pump because it would make being away from my baby so much easier. She spits up whenever she has formula so this is the only way to go!

  194. I would love to have a double pump! I presently have the Medela Swing pump, and it's pretty great. I am still breastfeeding my 10 month old, and plan to continue until he's done with me. I'd love to have it for heading back to work.

  197. What a wonderful giveaway! I would like to ask a question. What do you suggest for babies that don't like nursing necklaces? He is very easily distracted while nursing. Thank you.

  200. I'd like to win this pump because I am expecting my first in December and I plan on breastfeeding. Everyone I have talked to has said Medela is the absolute best pump to have!demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com

  209. I'd like to win for my SIL who is expecting her first child. She recently became unemployed and finding work has been difficult (for everyone). This would be a great surprise for her. Thanks for the chance.

  212. I would love to win the Medela Freestyle Breast Pump for my daughter who is due in March. She will be returning to full-time work after the baby is born and wants to continue to breastfeed as long as she wants. kmitchellshops(at)gmail(dot)com

  215. My best breastfeeding tip is to put a small safety pin on your bra strap to help you remember which side to start with at the next feeding. Then switch the safety pin to the other side after each feeding. kmitchellshops(at)gmail(dot)com

  226. I've got a preemie newborn. He was born 25weeks on the nose. I'm on day 7 and my milk still hasn't come in yet. I've been using the Medela they have at the hospital to simulate baby sucking. It's helping immensely. I doubt I would have anything without the use of the pump. I'm renting a Medela right now, because I really need the consistency offered by the electric pump. I would love to win one since I will need to be pumping without baby in my arms for another 3 months or so!

  235. I just had ny first baby in July, he was born at 32 weeks and spent 5 weeks in the NICU. We are currently breast feeding and bottle feeding with EBM. Having a double pump would cut down on time required to pump so that I can spend more time with my LO.Katiecouponkatie at hotmail dot com

  238. I would love to win this for a friend who is about ready to delivery her first baby. She really wants to breastfeed and pump when away at work. I had a rough time with pumping and I would live for her to have the opportunity to pump comfortably at work (we work together). I had the toughest time pumping at work trying to be somewhat productive and pumping every 2 hours! If I had a freestyle back then… I would have succeeded a lot longer than 8 months! I also exclusively pumped.mumma905708(at)gmail(dot)com

  240. my best tip is: Pumping is tough when it is full time… know what you are getting into first and it help you through the tough time. Also, Old Fashion Oatmeal is your BEST FRIEND!!!mumma905708(at)gmail(dot)com

  249. I would love to win a medela freestyle pump. I nursed my first until four months, when she became too independent. I couldn't afford a decent pump, &&the one I had just didn't work well enough so I ended up having to put her on formula which was distressing. With my second I am already planning to breastfeed and I would really like to be able to pump efficiently so I don't have to use formula

  250. i am due in 8 weeks and will be going back to work full time at the beginning of the year – and need to find a breast pump that will allow me to still give my new son all the benefits of breast milk even without me there all day long.

  251. With my son I would pump every night before going to bed so my husband could give the baby a dream feed. It was amazing because it gave me extra sleep, a chance for my husband to bond with the baby and my son slept so well that he slept though the night at 4 months. I am expecting again and unfortunately, my single Medela pump is no longer operational. I would put the Medela Freestyle to good use!

  252. With my first daughter we had such a hard time in the evenings with nursing, but I didn't have a good pump so never ended up pumping. My question is this:Is it typical for a woman to have reduced milk supply in the evenings?this was when we had the most difficulty, and eventually had to introduce formula to get through the evenings/night.thanks!

  254. I would love to win a breastpump for baby #2. I wasn't very successful pumping for my first baby and it made going out stressful, plus it was hard to get a moment for myself to stay sane.

  256. Breastfeeding Tip: Use breast compressions to keep your baby awake at the breast. Maintaining a good flow of milk is essential to a good feed and will buy you more time between feeds.

  257. My breastfeeding experience has been great, but I find it difficult to find the time to pump at work. I sometimes work three 13 hour shifts in a row and often my baby is sleeping when I leave for work and sleeping by the time I get home so it's important to me have a good pump to keep my supply up until he's at least one year old. My best pumping tip is to find a time everyday to pump a little extra that way if my supply happens to be alittle low one day I can fall back on my frozen supply.

  258. I would love to win the Freestyle because I am going to be returning to work soon and would like to continue to breastfeed. It would be great to have such a highly recommended product to use.

  260. Hi – I soooo need this pump! With a two year old and a little one arriving this December, I need all the spare hands I can get! Here's my question: my milk took an agonizing six days to come in with my son; if I pumped near my due date but before I actually give birth, would that help stimulate faster milk production? Thanks!

  262. I would love the medela pump because I have the medela hand pump and I want to continue to feed my son past one year but I think that I am going to need a better pump to do that. Especially since I want to get out more often and not worry about if I have enough milk saved for him. Thanks!

  263. Best Breastfeeding tip: keep saying over and over "IT WILL GET BETTER" I had a lot of problems starting with my first and I just kept at it and I was determined and eventually the pain went away, and I LOVE BFing now!

  264. I really want to breast feed my second baby, I didn't do it for the first. I have a large chest and am a little self conscious about them. Is it hard to breastfeed if you have a large chest???

  265. My best 'breastfeeding' tip : whether you're pumping, nursing, or both – get your CALORIES in! and remember to drink LOTS of water – I found on days when I didn't drink enough water, or if I skipped a meal, I didn't feel as 'full'. I'm due again in early January and would love this breastpump!

  267. With my first child, I borrowed a pump from a friend. It was not a Cadillac and it didn't work well. I'd love to have the best of the best of the best for our second! :)

  270. My best breastfeeding tip is – DON'T GIVE UP! The first few weeks nursing my son were incredibly difficult. He had sucking problems and I was so sore. The good news is – it got better. If it's tough at first and you are willing to endure some temporary frustration and discomfort, stick to it and it eventually get easier!mammabear06 at gmail dot com

  273. I would love to win this pump. I have 2 year old and a 6 month old. I exclusively breastfeed and have no problems feeding my kids in front of my family & friends. As for my in-laws, I'm feel very uncomfortable and always have breastfeed in a hot car when we're eating at a resturaunt because they don't approve. Would love one of these so I could give my baby natures best milk when we are with them, just in a bottle!

  274. I love the idea of pumping both sides at once… I could never get any milk out of the second side after I had already pumped the first… very frustrating!

  277. I would love to give this pump a try. Baby #3 is due in January 2011 and have only made it 6 months with both of my sons before my supply plummeted!

  279. I am 33 weeks pregnant with my third child. I breastfed both of my other children, and pumped using the single Medela handheld breastpump. After the pump being used for almost 4 years, it started to loose it's suction during the 6 month of breastfeeding my second child, and had to have the pump set at the highest suction level. Now, with my thrid baby, pumping each breast individually while chasing a 4 year old and a two year old is going to be very impractical and tidious. Winning this new pump would ease my life!!

  284. I would like to win a Medela Freestyle b/c I have 5 boys now and need to be able to pump every now and then so I can have hubby and the boys help me out. :)

  286. My best breastfeeding advice is that it isn't always easy and takes work from both mom and baby to learn how things work, plus it may hurt, but if you can hang in there for 2 weeks you may really be surprised. But, breastfeeding is not for everyone, that's why they make pumps! :)

  287. My son was born this past March. We had what seemed to be a good start with breastfeeding, but he suddenly stopped gaining weight. I went to multiple lactation consultants who told me I was doing everything correct, but he didn't gain weight for two weeks straight and I had to start with a bottle. Unfortunately, he got used to the bottle and stopped drinking from me. Due to financial constraints, I have been hand expressing for almost five months! It takes a LONG time.. my hands are sore and the skin on my breasts is rough from being rubbed so much. I recently rented a pump and it is so much easier, but it cost $3/day and I have to return in soon. I would love to be able to continue pumping with the pump you are giving away. Thank you.

  298. I would really love to win for the hands free feature! With two little ones running around, I need as many free hands as I can get! I have a nursing question…my second born would have milk coming out her nose while nursing when we were lying down on our sides in bed. Didn't seem to bother her any, so I didn't stop. Is this normal? She has grown out of it now but I'm curious!

  300. I'd like to win this pump because I am currently trying to wean my almost 6 month old off of formula. The pump I have now is slowly dying and suction isn't what it used to me. I don't want to have to quit nursing and I need the pump to help build my supply by pumping in between nursingsahmofdq@gmail.com

  305. I like to win this because I will be going back to work soon from my mat leave and definitely wants to pump at work if I could!

  306. The best tip I got: You don't have to wash everything in between pumping! Breast milk naturallys kills a lot of stuff so if you are pumping frequently (every 2-3 hours), simply put the shields etc. in the fridge and wash the every other pump session. We all know how precious time is when you have a new born!

  315. My best pumping tip (if you want to increase your supply) is to express by hand for a few minutes after you think you've pumped yourself dry. You might be surprised by how much more you get… and it can increase your supply if you stick with it.