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Breastfeeding has long been considered best.
From boosting brain development to protecting against overweight and obesity for infants to lowering the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes for moms, the benefits of breastmilk are numerous.
However, sticking to a feeding routine can become problematic as moms return to work.
Also read: 'Breastfeeding on the go': Here is all you need to survive breastfeeding while travelling
Pumping can be crucial for busy moms
But that's where breast pumps come in handy, say the developers of Medela, a breast pump brand. Additional breastfeeding difficulties such as milk supply and latching issues also pose potential barriers to breastfeeding, Medela highlights.
"For moms in this position, breast pumping is an excellent way to make sure that their baby benefits from getting breast milk".
For local mom Pamela Madonsela, pumping was crucial.
"I was never warned that stepping out of the house as a breastfeeding mom came with so much pain. It's either you sit down and express, rush back home, or your breasts would be leaking," she previously shared.
Here's a look at the benefits of pumping, according to Medela.
Both mom and dad can feed their baby
Pumping breastmilk and feeding it to baby via a bottle means that feeding times can be split between mom and dad and baby's grandparents, nanny, or other visitors. Not only does this relieve mom, but it also allows family and friends to spend some one-on-one time with baby.
Ease of convenience
Pumping allows moms and caregivers to control the timing of feeds and to follow a schedule that works for them.
Relieves pressure on moms
Some moms have to return to work shortly after giving birth, some are required to travel, and some lead busy lifestyles that leave them permanently on the go. This means that baby might be left in the care of a nanny, grandparent, or day-care from a young age. Pumping means baby can reap all the benefits of breastmilk while mom can fulfil her other obligations.
Potential to increase milk supply
If your breast milk supply is not steady, pumping may help solve the problem. Some moms pump after breastfeeding to increase their supply naturally. If you're concerned about periods when your supply is low, a frozen stash of breast milk will go a long way in easing stress.
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