Breast pump

A breast pump is a device used to remove milk from the breasts of a lactating woman. It does not suction the milk from the breast but instead triggers the milk releasing response by mimicking the nursing motion of an infant. The nipple of the breast is pulled into a tube and then released. The process is repeated up to 60 times per minute. This motion causes the breast to release milk.

There are three basic types of pumping actions: single, double alternating and double simultaneous. The names are fairly straight forward. The single pumping style pumps one breast at a time. Double alternating means that the pump is attached to both breasts at the same time. The pumping mechanism alternates between breasts, pumping one cycle on one breast, then switching to the other breast for one cycle. The double simultaneous pump applies stimulation to both breasts at the same time. It is the fastest method and actually encourages more milk production.

Breast pumps get their power in different ways. Some are manual which means they are operated by squeezing a handle over and over again throughout the pumping process. They are obviously very portable and can be used anywhere since a power supply is not needed. However they can be tiring to use. Some manual models have a foot power option. This means that the pumping device is controlled by a pedal that is pumped with the foot instead of the handle that is squeezed. It is easier to use than the hand pump variety and also has the benefit of not needing a power source.

Electric breast pumps are a popular option. A small motor is used to provide the suction that stimulates the nipple. The pumping process is much faster and the double simultaneous method can be used. This style is preferred by those mothers that will be pumping on a daily basis. The manual methods are better suited for those who will only need to pump infrequently.

Once the milk is out of the breast it can be stored and used later to feed the baby. It can remain at room temperature for up to 10 hours or can be refrigerated for up to eight days. In some cases the milk is frozen in a deep freeze for up to six months.

There are many different reasons why a woman would choose to use a breast pump. In some cases the mother will need to return to work before the baby has stopped nursing. The mother can use the breast pump to store breast milk that a caregiver can feed to the child.

Some women who want to breast feed are initially not able to because they have a low milk supply. The breast pump can be used to stimulate the milk production to the point that the woman can breast feed naturally. In some cases the breasts produce more milk than the infant needs. This can lead to the breast becoming painful and overfull. The breast pump can be used to relieve the excess milk.

If a nursing mother needs to take a medication that will be harmful to the baby, but still wants to provide breast milk, she could store a supply before taking the medicine. While on the medicine she can use the breast pump to maintain milk production. The milk won’t be usable, but the breasts will remain active and nursing can resume when the medication is out of her system.