We can all agree that breast milk is best for babies. The ability to produce breast milk is important to a mother’s nurturing capabilities. Nature has equipped mothers with the ability to bear children and to supply them with self-produced nourishment.
Times have changed greatly, though. Mothers find themselves busy with chores and careers and struggle to find time to focus on caring for their babies and themselves. You may need to ask yourself if it is time to use a breast milk pump.
When to start using a breast pump
You may be wondering when the best time to use a breast pump is. Some would argue that the best time to use a breast pump is right after giving birth. This makes sense since a baby will need to be fed moments after entering our world. However, this is rarely the case. Mothers can breastfeed and feed their baby within the first hour of giving birth, while a doctor recommends a baby formula for mothers who produce little or no breast milk.
Mothers nowadays have careers or need to apply for a job to contribute financially to their families. They are given the required maternity leave, but when the time comes that they need to return to work, they have to resolve the issue of baby feeding away from home. This is when a breast pump plays an important role.
It is best to purchase a breast pump and use it for a few weeks before returning to work. This ensures that the mother has enough time to acquaint herself with using a breast pump. You have to prepare yourself to study how a breast pump works and what other items you need for smooth breast pumping.
Practice with the pump
New mothers may be clueless about using a breast pump, especially if they have not seen anyone use it. You should practice using the breast pump days or weeks before you need the milk supply. This helps you practice the breast pumping routine and determine what is required for easy milk extraction.
This is also the best period to consult relatives, friends, and experts to get tips on proper breast pumping. You will find it easy once you get used to the breast-pumping routine.
Pump as much as your baby needs
Your body changes and adapts according to your baby’s needs. You have to pump enough milk for your baby to make sure that it has a sufficient supply. Pumping as often as your baby drinks milk helps to get your body used to producing the required amount of breast milk.
Benefits of using a breast pump
A breast pump is a tool that has all the advantages with little to no disadvantages attached. There are breast pumps that fit different needs and budgets, but all of them have the same basic benefits.
Breast milk is best
You will be pleased when you feed your baby the most nutritious and best type of milk there is. Your breastmilk changes as your child grow to cope with the baby’s nutritional needs, and being able to feed your baby breast milk while away gives you peace of mind. Breast Milk lessens the risk of certain illnesses in babies, such as asthma, type 1 diabetes, and obesity.
Cost savings
Breastfeeding can save you money. The price of baby formula can be expensive, unaffordable even. Breast milk is free. Using a breast pump and storing the milk to feed the baby saves you money and allows you to go to work. You will be happy to know that your money and breast milk are not wasted.
More personal time and shared feeding
You can be away from your baby longer and more frequently with the help of a breast pump. The breast milk you store can feed the baby while you tend to yourself. You can go for a doctor’s visit, do groceries, or just rest in your room. Anyone can feed the baby for you so long as there is pumped breast milk.
Breast milk supply
Breast pumping allows you to extract and store practically unlimited amounts of milk. This helps make sure there is always a supply of breast milk for the baby.
Become a donor
You can give your milk to your baby and other babies who need it. The excess breast milk you produce can be given to mothers who can not breastfeed or have difficulty affording baby formula.
Conclusion
Being a busy mother does not mean your baby should miss out on nutritious breast milk. You are assured that your health-giving milk can meet your child’s needs with a breast pump. You can focus on important things with confidence that your little one gets the nourishment it needs.
