Why a Breast pump?

Why Might You Need a Breast Pump? Advice from Midwives

According to midwives and lactation consultants, a breast pump isn’t always necessary, but it can be a real lifesaver in many situations. Breast pumps have been around in various forms for over 150 years and help modern parents balance breastfeeding with daily life. Here are some common reasons women use a breast pump, according to experts like International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) and midwives:

• When the baby can’t breastfeed effectively: If your baby is premature, unwell, or struggles to latch (e.g., due to flat or inverted nipples), a pump can help maintain milk production. Midwives emphasize that each missed feeding should be replaced with pumping—often 8–12 times per day initially.
• To relieve discomfort: Overfull breasts (engorgement) or blocked milk ducts can be painful. Pumping eases the pressure and reduces the risk of infections like mastitis. Midwives suggest pumping just enough to feel relief without overstimulating.
• During separation from the baby: If you’re working, studying, or need to be away, a pump lets you store milk so your baby can still receive breast milk. It also allows the father or other caregivers to feed and bond with the baby.
• To boost milk supply: If your baby isn’t getting enough or you have a low supply, regular pumping can stimulate more production. Midwives recommend pumping after feeding to "empty" the breasts fully, signaling the body to make more.
• For twins or multiples: Breastfeeding multiple babies simultaneously is demanding—pumping enables parallel feeding or building a reserve.
• For personal reasons: Some mothers choose exclusive pumping due to trauma, sensory preferences, or physical barriers. It’s still breastfeeding, and midwives stress that the most important thing is finding a method that works for you and your baby.
• In emergencies or for donation: Pumping creates a backup for illness or medications affecting breastfeeding. Many also donate milk to milk banks for premature infants.

Remember: Midwives always advise consulting a lactation consultant if you face breastfeeding challenges. Pumping is a complement, not a replacement, for direct breastfeeding when possible.