Well, I thought I would post and (kind of) answer my own question. I originally did a search for Whittlestone and came up with nothing, so I posted my question. But in further perusal of the boards I found a couple of threads on the subject. This was the best one:
Whittlestone info Just a little fyi for anyone trying to find information on the Whittlestone. I used it with my last bio birth. My first two I had trouble getting in a very good milk supply, and got discouraged with the extreme pulling action of hospital grade pumps. (Ouch!) I researched and found the Whittlestone to be a gentler alternative. Thankfully, I had it when I was diagnosed with a severe blood clot in my leg 3 weeks postpartum and had to travel to Maryland for a new procedure to save my leg from being amputated. I had to leave my baby home, so took the Whittlestone along with me and pumped the entire week (even after two days of grueling surgery!)
I had a fabulous supply of milk, but kept using it when I returned home to help my son adjust to breastfeeding again. I was able to pump 6 - 8 oz each time, whereas with other pumps I could only pump about 2.
We are now expecting baby #4 via a gestational surrogate (not risking another blood clot!) and I am on the accelerated protocol to induce lactation (I didn't want to be on BCP's very long.) I think I will continue with Plan A and use the Whittlestone unless I don't seem to have any luck. I still have 4 weeks on the Yasmin.
So if anyone is considering a Whittlestone, I will keep this thread updated on my progress.
Rebecca
PS..Yes, it is very LOUD! But it doesn't pull, or hurt at all. It feels very natural.