Two wearable pump cups in a linen tray beside a pumping bra

Wearable breast pumps, explained

Pumps worn in a bra, and pumping bras that hold a shield.

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What wearable means

A wearable pump is a powered pump made to sit inside a bra, so the pump and the milk container are worn on the body instead of held. The FDA pages on breast pumps do not use the word "wearable", so we describe it in plain words only.

Hands-free with a pumping bra

The FDA says a breast pump is typically held in place by hand or by a nursing bra, a breast pumping bra, or a band. A pumping bra holds the breast shield so you do not have to hold it.

Still a powered pump

Federal rules list a powered breast pump as an electrically powered suction device used to express milk. A wearable pump is a powered pump, so what the FDA says about powered pumps applies to it too: the FDA says powered pumps designed for single users should never be rented or shared.

Fit and cleaning

The FDA says to make sure the breast shield opening is the correct size for you. It says to check the instruction manual for the maker's cleaning method, and never to put a pump's electrical unit in water.

Which one fits?

We do not pick a pump or a bra. The FDA says that if you are not sure which pump or accessories to get, talk to a health care professional who has expertise in breastfeeding.

Sources: FDA, Types of Breast Pumps (2018); FDA, What to Know When Buying or Using a Breast Pump (2023); FDA, Choosing a Breast Pump (2018); FDA, Cleaning a Breast Pump (2022); eCFR, 21 CFR 884.5160, Powered breast pump.

FAQ

Is a wearable pump a medical device?

A wearable pump is a powered breast pump, and the FDA says breast pumps are medical devices regulated by the FDA.

Can I share a wearable pump?

The FDA says powered pumps designed for single users should never be rented or shared.

General information only, not medical advice. For questions about pumping, breastfeeding, milk supply, or feeding your baby, talk to your doctor, midwife, or lactation consultant, or your baby's pediatrician. Follow the maker's instructions for your pump and its parts. The FDA says that if you are injured while using a breast pump or have pain, contact your health care provider. In an emergency, call 911.

An ivory pump motor with one tube to a shield and bottle on dark wood

Electric breast pumps, explained

Battery or cord, single or double.

One clear breast shield on its connector, standing on grey textured linen

Breast pump flange fit, explained

What fit means, and who can help.

A breast shield, a bottle, and four small pump parts on a white paper towel

Cleaning breast pump parts

After every use.

Next: electric pumps