Is the effect of a breast pump the same as a baby sucking?
Feb 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Xiaopeng
Introduction
There is no difference between pumping with a breast pump and breastfeeding directly in terms of effectiveness. When a baby feeds, they receive breast milk at its natural temperature and nutritional quality, whereas pumped milk is usually warmed in a microwave, which may slightly affect its nutrients. Generally, using a breast pump is comparable to direct breastfeeding. However, pumping may not empty the breasts as thoroughly as a baby's sucking, and the stimulation differs from a baby's natural suckling. Long-term use of a breast pump may lead to a decreased milk supply.
There is no significant difference between using a breast pump and a baby nursing directly.
A baby receives breast milk at its natural temperature and with full nutritional value, while milk expressed by a breast pump is often warmed in a microwave, which may slightly affect its nutrients. Generally, there's little difference between using a breast pump and direct breastfeeding. However, nursing directly offers certain benefits. When a baby suckles, it stimulates the secretion of prolactin, which promotes milk production—the more the baby nurses, the more milk the mother produces. In contrast, prolonged use of a breast pump may lead to a decrease in milk supply. Breast pumps are commonly used when babies are very young or when milk ducts are blocked, making it necessary to express milk.
Breast pumps may not empty the breasts as thoroughly as a baby’s natural sucking does, and the stimulation they provide differs from that of an infant. Long-term use can result in reduced milk supply, although breast pumps are suitable for mothers who have an oversupply of milk. If there is still a significant amount of milk remaining after the baby finishes feeding, it is important to use a breast pump to express the excess milk to prevent blockages.
