Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but any mother who has pumped knows that it can be far from effortless. Traditional pumps have long been the standard, but wearable breast pumps are changing the way parents think about expressing milk. Compact, discreet, and hands-free, these devices are designed to give mothers more freedom while helping them meet their feeding goals.
If you’re curious about how wearable breast pumps work, how they compare to regular pumps, and what to look for when choosing one, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
1. How Does a Wearable Breast Pump Work?
Unlike traditional pumps that require bottles, flanges, and tubing connected to a motor, wearable breast pumps are designed to fit seamlessly inside your bra, with no external tubes or wires. They use gentle suction to draw milk into a small container that sits within the pump. Because they’re cordless and lightweight, you can move around, work, or even rest while pumping. Many models are powered by rechargeable batteries and come with app connectivity for tracking sessions.
2. Different Types of Wearable Breast Pumps
Not all wearables are built the same. The main types include:
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Fully Wearable Pumps – self-contained devices that fit into your bra.
Tubing-connected wearable pumps – compact cups that slip into your bra but connect to a small motor clipped to your clothing.
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Single vs. Double Pumps – depending on whether you want to pump one breast at a time or both simultaneously.
3. How Do Wearable Pumps Compare to Regular Breast Pumps?
Effectiveness
Hospital-grade pumps often provide stronger suction and may be more efficient for exclusively pumping moms or those with supply concerns. Wearable pumps, while effective, may not always match the power of a full-size pump.
Convenience
Wearable pumps win when it comes to portability and discreetness.
Noise level
Many wearable pumps are quieter, making them great for work or public spaces.
Cleaning
Some wearables have more parts to clean compared to regular pumps.
While these practical comparisons matter, many mothers also value the overall experience of pumping: how it feels, how empowering it is, and whether it fits seamlessly into daily life. That’s exactly what Hegen’s Founder and IBCLC, Yvon Bock, had in mind when designing the Hegen PCTO™ Wearable Breast Pump:
“As a breastfeeding mother for over a decade and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, I’ve always dreamed of reimagining what pumping should feel like—comfortable, efficient, and truly empowering. That vision inspired the Hegen PCTO™ Wearable Breast Pump, designed to give mothers the confidence, comfort, and freedom they deserve. Key features include 78 personalized settings to mimic a baby’s natural suckling rhythm, powerful yet comfortable hospital-grade suction, and a stylish aesthetic so moms can move with freedom and pump in style.”
– Yvon Bock, Founder & CEO of Hegen, IBCLC
4. Considerations When Choosing a Pump
4a. Should You Rely Only on a Wearable Pump?
While wearable pumps are incredibly convenient, they’re generally best used as a supplement rather than a full replacement for a standard electric pump. A traditional electric pump is often more powerful and efficient, especially if you need to establish or maintain supply. Wearable pumps can also be handy for quick relief or travel. Many parents find that using a combination of the two is most effective: using a regular electric pump at home, and a wearable for multitasking, working, or pumping on the go.
When deciding between wearable and regular pumps, think about:
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Lifestyle – Do you need to pump on the go or while multitasking?
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Frequency – If you pump several times a day, efficiency may outweigh convenience.
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Support needs – A hospital-grade pump might be recommended for boosting supply.
5. What to Look Out for in a Wearable Breast Pump
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Fit and comfort – Choose a pump with a balanced weight distribution and a flange size that fits your breast/ nipple for a secure, comfortable fit.
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Suction strength – Look for adjustable settings to mimic your baby’s natural rhythm.
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Battery life – Essential for moms who pump on the go.
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Ease of cleaning – Fewer parts with minimal crevices make life easier. Dishwasher-safe parts for added convenience
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Milk storage – Check the capacity and whether it integrates with your existing bottles (like Hegen’s).
How Hegen Helps New Moms Pump Comfortably, Effectively, and in Style
Wearable breast pumps have opened a new chapter in feeding journeys, offering freedom, powerful suction, flexibility, and empowerment for mothers on the go. While no single pump fits every parent’s needs, wearable options provide a convenient, hands-free way to express milk without interrupting your day.
For mothers seeking a balance of comfort, efficiency, and mobility, the Hegen PCTO™ Wearable Breast Pump is designed to move with your rhythm. With customisable settings that mimic a baby’s natural feeding pattern, gentle yet powerful suction, and an in-bra design that lets you pump discreetly, it’s built to support your body and your day. Its all-in-one container makes storing and feeding simple, so you can focus on what matters most: your baby.
Ultimately, the best pump is the one that works for your lifestyle and gives you confidence and ease. Wearable pumps like Hegen’s offer a modern, thoughtful option for mothers who want flexibility without compromising milk output or comfort.