Elvie Stride - my key to a successful breastfeeding journey
- Reagan O'Connor
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Elvie Stride vs. Elvie Stride 2: An Honest Review After Four Babies
Breastfeeding has looked very different for me with each of my four babies. I’ve experienced low supply, exclusive formula feeding, long-term breastfeeding, and pumping through a NICU stay. Because of that, I’m very realistic about what a pump can — and can’t — do.
I’ve now used the Elvie Stride (and later the Elvie Stride 2) across very different seasons of motherhood, and this is my honest experience.
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Baby #1: Why Pumping Didn’t Work for Me at First
With my first baby, I struggled with supply from the beginning. I attempted to use a traditional, non–hands-free pump and hated it almost immediately.
Being tethered to a wall, managing tubes, and trying to pump while learning how to care for a newborn felt overwhelming. Ultimately, I decided to switch to formula — and at the time, that was the right decision for me.
Looking back, I know that setup mattered more than I realized.
Baby #3: When the Elvie Stride Changed Everything
By the time baby #3 arrived, I was determined to make breastfeeding work.
That’s when I tried the Elvie Stride.
What made the difference:
Hands-free design
Slim profile that fit easily in a bra
Quiet enough to use around others
Simple setup and cleanup
Because I could move around, tend to my older kids, and pump without feeling trapped, I was able to breastfeed and pump successfully for 15 months.
The pump didn’t magically fix everything — but it removed enough barriers that consistency became possible.
Baby #4: NICU Life and Why the Elvie Really Earned Its Place
With baby #4, things took an unexpected turn. I was induced early, and my baby spent 10 days in the NICU.
Those early days were intense. I needed to pump frequently to establish supply while also being emotionally exhausted and constantly moving between home and hospital.
Because of the Elvie’s hands-free, easy-to-use design, I was able to pump:
Every 2 hours during the day
Without needing to be stationary
Without setting up complicated equipment
By the time my baby came home, I had 75 ounces in the freezer and was able to provide enough milk during those first critical days.
I genuinely don’t think that would have been possible for me with a traditional pump.
Elvie Stride vs. Elvie Stride 2: What to Know
Both pumps share what I consider the most important features:
Hands-free pumping
Low-profile cups
Portable design
Easy daily use
The Elvie Stride 2 improves slightly on comfort and usability, but functionally, the experience is very similar. If you find either version at a better price point, I wouldn’t hesitate based on model alone. I do like that on the Elvie Stride 2 they send different flange sizes. I used the sizing guide sent and installed the appropriate flange- however in the hospital I was measured by a lactation consultant and she gave me a different measurement. I would encourage measurement with lactation in the hospital if possible.
What I Love About the Elvie
✔ Hands-Free = Consistency
This is the biggest factor. Being able to pump while moving, caring for kids, or resting made consistency realistic — and consistency is everything for supply.
✔ Slim and Discreet
It fits well under clothing and doesn’t make you feel bulky or awkward.
✔ Easy to Use
When you’re exhausted or emotional, simple matters. This pump is straightforward.
The Cons (Because No Pump Is Perfect)
❌ It Can Leak if You Lean Forward
If you bend forward too much, milk can leak. I learned quickly to stay upright or remove it first.
❌ Battery Life
The battery lasts about three pumping sessions, so regular charging is necessary.
❌ Not the Quietest Pump on the Market
It’s fairly quiet, but not silent. That said, it was quiet enough for NICU use and everyday life.
Who I’d Recommend the Elvie For
The Elvie Stride or Stride 2 is a great choice if you:
Have multiple kids
Need to pump frequently
Want a hands-free option
Are pumping during a NICU stay
Value ease of use over maximum power
Who Might Want Something Else
You may want to look at other options if:
You lean forward often while pumping
You want the longest possible battery life
You need the absolute quietest pump available
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding success looks different for everyone. For me, the Elvie didn’t guarantee success — but it made it possible during seasons when a traditional pump simply wouldn’t have worked.
Across four babies, the Elvie Stride has earned its place in my postpartum journey.
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