The Harmony is the only manual breast pump from the Medela breast pump line.
Incidentally, it is also the most affordable model out of all but aside from its price, portability is also one of the reason the Harmony has amassed a great following.
Main Functions in Detail
Now, you may not understand why a manual breastpump is needed when there are so many electric choices available that make breastpumping so much easier and faster.
One indisputable, and also the main reason is that no other breastpump can rival the portability of the Harmony.
Small, portable and lightweight (less than 1 pound!), it is designed with discreet transportation in mind.
Because it is so easy to bring around, it is great for travel or as an occasional backup to your double electric pump because the latter can run out of battery, or you are nowhere near a power source.
Like the Swing, the Harmony is a single breast pump. Do not automatically think that this is a downside - a lot of mothers actually prefer this setting as it allows them to pump on one side while they nurse baby on the other.
Nevertheless, the Harmony has a soft-touch, ergonomic swivel handle that makes it easier to operate.
It helps keep the pump at a good angle while still allowing mothers to pump with one hand without spilling any milk .
It is also relatively quieter than other Medela breastpumps as there is no motor running.
Now you may wonder if the brand's signature 2-phase expression work with the manual Harmony?
Don't worry, the answer is yes.
The manual controlled vacuum allows you to adjust the suction for the most optimal comfort level and efficient flow of breastmilk.
Start from the top pump for stimulation phase to get your milk flowing.
Once milk starts to flow, switch to the longer side of the handle to create a slower sucking cycle to express the majority of your milk. It's that easy.
The Medela Harmony comes in a package that includes:
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
If you're to ask us, we wouldn't advise to rely solely on the Harmony for your day-to-day or hourly pumping.
This is because a single manual breast pump can never triumph that of a double electric breast pump in terms of convenience and speed.
However, we will say that the Medela Harmony is an excellent complement to any electric breast pumps you own.
It makes for a good backup option for when there is no battery or power source but most importantly, its size and weight enable discreet transportation for the occasional use when you're away from your baby for a short time.
For a portable breast pump, you have nothing to lose with the Harmony.
