Our kit included everything pictured above:
- Electric breast pump with personalized programming unit
- Breast pump standing cradle
- Manual breast pump hood and handle
- Battery pack, adapater and spare parts
- Compact travel sterilizer
- Bonus accessories: 6 disposable breast pads, 5 oz. “Natural Nurser” bottle with slow flow nipple (the pump is compatible with all Nuby “Natural Touch” bottles and cups)
The learning curve for this pump is pretty simple. I had it assembled very quickly and read through the user manual in 5 minutes. Being very engorged from putting off feedings for too long, I used it right away and got about 4 ounces of milk pumped from my “sore” side. Ahhh, relief!! The flexible silicone horn was comfortable and fit fine. By my bra size, I would fall in the large-breasted category, so I was worried it might be too snug. The silicone piece is actually a thin liner which fits into the horn, and this enables it to “flex” and create more efficient, yet comfortable, suction.
Like more expensive double electric pumps, the Nuby Rhythm has two settings which mimic breastfeeding: fast and light to encourage letdown, and then slow/stronger to extract milk once things are flowing. It also has a neat little feature where it remembers the rhythm level that you previously used. The next time you pump, it goes through the preset program, so you literally just push one button and sit back to let it do the work
The pump can also be used manually by working the handle repeatedly with your fingers, creating a simple vacuum effect. I didn’t get as much milk that way. Still, it works good in a pinch if you don’t have access to electricity or just want to express a little.
The whole unit is very compact and portable, which is one thing I really like about it. Of course, this is partly due to the fact that it’s not a double pump; you have to do one side at a time. But if you want that premium feature, you have to pay more for it. Most good double pumps are well over $100. The amount of use your pump will get is a factor when making a purchase; for an occasional use pump I would say the Nuby is a great choice, and it’s certainly affordable