I started off with the Medela Mini E (prior to that, I've tried other brands like Pigeon and this cylindar shaped pump, can't remember what it's called). As it's a single pump, I find it takes up too much of my time at work and so happened my gf passed me another NUK single electric, I used both and they became a dual pump hehehe However, having to lug the 2 pumps and adaptors home is no joke, it's really heavy. I dumped them into a big haversack and my collgs always make fun of me that I'm on the run.
Having nursed DD#1 for 3 years, I felt more confident that I can do a better job with DS#2 so I invested in the Medela PIS. However, the thought of lugging it to work daily (I don't drive then) deters me from using it. In the end, I sold it off and bought the Ameda Lactaline and Avent ISIS. I left the Ameda in office and only used the ISIS at home (tandem pumping). Ameda was occassionally lugged home when I need to go for external meetings/site visits.
Now, I've just invested in a supposingly very good pump ie Avent ISIS IQ Duo. Call me crazy but I seriously think it's worth the money to get a good pump.
Applying Pressure on Nipple
I'm not sure about clogging the milk ducts but I doubt so cos when I had #1, I didn't know of this method. I only started applying pressure after I delivered #2. My milk supply really abundant.. enough to feed 2 babies and a toddler then. Easily 400ml per expression so I doubt it will clog the ducts.
Varicose Veins
Yes, I never had them during #1 & #2's time. The first time I got it was during my trip to Melbourne, we went sightseeing and had to walk quite a fair bit that day. That very night, my legs hurt so much and I literally can't walk. Had to massage and elevate my legs to sleep, luckily, the next morning when I woke up, it doesn't swell as much and the pain is more bearable.
Don't know how to minimise.. I asked my gynae about it and she says expect more to come **sweat** If you know of a good solution, pls let me know too!
