Breast Pump Reviews: Playtex Embrace Breast Pump System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I own this pump and the Medela Pump in Style Advanced. There are pros and cons to each. I will share my thoughts on both so that hopefully you can make an educated decision about which one to choose.

The Playtex pump breast shields are made from soft silicone, so they imitate the nursing baby more closely. The Playtex silicone shield gently presses the areola while drawing the nipple out and expressing milk. The Medela pump comes with hard plastic shields, so they do not press the areola while drawing the nipple out. As you may know, the gentle pressure on the areola is what stimulates both milk production and letdown. This feature of the Playtex pump was important to me because I pump exclusively (5-6 times a day) and it is vital that I keep my supply up. Using the Playtex pump seemed to increase/stabilize my supply.

Also, because both pumps come with clear breast shields, I am able to see exactly how many nipple openings are releasing milk. Hands down, more openings are engaged with the Playtex pump.

Another advantage of the Playtex over the Medela is that it comes with a car charger and several organization bags, as well as an ice pack for about the same price as the Medela or cheaper. One of the cons of the Playtex pump is that the breast shields themselves are larger than the Medela, and have more parts to assemble (4 parts make up one breast shield). I found that if I have not assembled the shields just right, it interferes with the suction. The Medela shields are smaller (easier to hold, especially for those with small hands), and only require two parts to assemble them. This also helps out when traveling.

Another con of the Playtex pump is that I was unable to find many accessories for it in stores for immediate purchase. I had to go to [...] to order extra breast shields and other items, therefore I had to wait for them to ship. Lastly, I have had to contact both manufacturers for help with my products. When I contacted Playtex, they overnighted me the equipment I needed (I called at about 2pm one afternoon and got it at 8am the next morning...WOW!!! Great service). When I contacted Medela, they sent my items via Priority Mail, so it took 3 days for me to receive what I needed.

Both pumps are excellent, but if I had to choose, I would choose the Playtex over the Medela simply because the soft silicone breast shield allows me to maintain my supply more easily. Sorry for being so long-winded, but I just wanted to share my experience with you about these products to help you make a better decision. Happy nursing, and remember: Breast is Best!!!

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Product Description:
The Playtex? Embrace? Breast Pump System combines ultimate comfort with state-of-the-art efficiency, including a double electric pump, stylish tote bag, and all the accessories you need for long-term, daily pumping.

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