as an experienced BF mum i have 2 different pumps...the first i ever bought was the Avent manual pump, i got on really well with this and as a first time pumper (i won't say milker LOL) i found it comfortable and could adjust it for comfort, the only draw back was it made my hand ache, i have now got an electric Medela, single not duo pump and at first it was really difficult and even tho i cold adjust the strength of the `suck` i found it a bit uncomfortable, i did like the fact that i didnt get an aching hand tho...i did persevere but for me i think the manual was best...can't explain why just seemed to get more milk off...however medela is supposed to be one of the best and i am going to give it a proper try this time around as i want hubby to be able to feed baby too, its worth the money as my local maternity unit has medela pumps too, so lots of people use them..don't know if this info is of any use, i know you asked for first time mums, but thought id let you know what i found xx
I also read up on breast pumps and I have seen that the Medela seems to be the best. I am waiting to buy on since it is pretty expensive to see if I am able to breastfeed I am a first time mom.
I have a medela freeystyle... It's an electric double pump and I absolutely love it. I am not sure if you're going back to work or not but if you are a high quality breastpump could be the difference between making bfing last or not. Also, these can be very expensive so I've known people who rented one until they were sure they were going to be able to bf for an extended time. It may seem weird, but all of the "personal" parts can be replaced so it's still very safe and sanitary. Good luck and hopefully you can find one that works for you!
i am a first-time mom, but after extensive research, have decided to go with a medela pump - i went with one of their double electric pumps, and i was able to score it at 20% off at babies r us with a coupon. i can't give you experienced advice (yet), but wanted to give my input anyway! good luck ;)
here is a link to the one i chose:
http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10812796