Many new mothers choose to get used breast pumps to feed their babies to save money, but they should be careful. Even though used breast pumps are more affordable than new ones, there are possible legal and health implications involved.
A breast pump labeled "single user" should both be legally sold according to the FDA, as it is intended only for one user. Reselling such pumps is not in accordance with the FDA. Hence, the FDA can take legal action against such sales.
Many breast pumps are designated as ""single user"" devices since they cannot be cleaned completely to ensure that the breast milk of the original user is not still within the pump system. Because of this, the possibilities of transmitting diseases through a used breast pump exist. It is suggested to read the operating instructions that came with the breast pump at the time of purchasing it to find out the designation given to the pump by the FDA
Some of the single-user breast pumps are Avent breast pumps, The Ameda ® Purely Yours breast pump, WhisperWear® breast pump, and the Medela Pump In Style® breast pump.
Some breast pumps that are not labeled ""single user"" devices are Medela Classic(TM) breast pump, Medela Lactina® breast pump, Ameda Lact-E ® breast pump, and Ameda Elite® breast pump.
Usually the hospital grade breast pumps and pumps often used specifically as rental pumps are the multi user designated pumps.
When considering selling or buying a used breast pump, determine whether or not the pump is a ""single user"" pump. Find out from the seller and check the product information to be sure.
To be safe, breast pumps must never be shared, resold, or borrowed among mothers. Product warranty given on a single user breast pump becomes void by multiple users.
Rental pumps are safe to use by multiple mothers who have their own personal kits. However, they should be used according to the instructions, Ameda sells personal pump kits approved by the FDA.
