5 reasons to use a breast pump

Any new Mum will tell you that a good breast pump can come in handy. Here are a few reasons why:

Keeps the milk flowing

Many women today go back to work after their baby arrives. Keeping the milk flowing while you're away from your baby helps you avoid the expense of formula. Plus, using a breast pump allows you the flexibility to get back to work without your baby having to miss out on your milk.

Makes it easier for baby to latch on

Sometimes a mother's breast becomes too full for her baby to latch on easily. Pumping for a few minutes softens your nipple and breast enough so the baby can latch on a little easier.

Helps draw out your nipples

If you have inverted nipples, it may be difficult for your baby to latch on. Using a breast pump for a few minutes will help draw out your nipples, which may make it easier for your baby to take the breast.

Provides milk for premature or ill babies

Some babies are too premature or ill to latch onto their mother's breast. When this happens, you can pump. Your milk is like a medicine for your baby. Babies who receive mother's milk are sometimes able to take their food by mouth sooner, and this may help them come home from the hospital earlier.

Increases low milk supply

If you're having trouble making enough milk, using a breast pump will help you increase your milk supply. Pumping to drain your breasts of milk more fully more times each day helps speed up your milk production.

At Belly Beyond, we know that the best breast pump in the world - is baby - so let your baby feed on demand (whenever they want to in other words).  Because babies only have tiny tummies, this may be every few hours but rest assured you will both settle into a pattern of feeding with out the need to implement strict time guidelines. 

If and when you decide you do need a breast pump check out our great range of Medela breast pumps and accessories and leading brand of breast pumps from Ameda.

Reprinted with permission