With World Breastfeeding Week 2024 focusing on “closing the gap,” it’s crucial to support all parents with the right information. Recent studies from Yale School of Medicine highlight the significant benefits of pumping for breastfeeding duration and infant health.
New Research Insights
Two key studies have shed light on the advantages of using breast pumps. The first study indicates that parents who use pumps can extend their breastfeeding duration by an average of 21 weeks compared to those who do not use them. Additionally, research suggests that human milk is superior to formula in promoting healthy intestinal development in infants.
Breastfeeding Recommendations
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend breastfeeding for at least two years, and longer if desired by both parent and child. However, achieving these goals can be challenging due to societal and systemic barriers, such as lack of paid parental leave.
Dr. Jenelle Ferry, MD, a board-certified neonatologist and director of feeding, nutrition, and infant development at Pediatrix Medical Group, emphasizes the importance of flexibility. She encourages all parents to breastfeed or pump if possible and to remember that formula is a safe alternative if exclusive breastfeeding isn’t feasible. “Any amount of breast milk, even when combined with formula, provides benefits to your baby,” she notes.
Pumping and Its Impact on Lactation Duration
Dr. Deanna Nardella, MD, and her team at pediatric clinics and neonatal intensive care units, have observed the challenges parents face when trying to access breastfeeding support. Their recent study, using data from nearly 20,000 U.S. lactating individuals, found that over 91% used a pump. Those who used a pump lactated for an average of 21 weeks longer than those who did not. Pump use was associated with a 37% lower risk of stopping lactation early, particularly benefiting non-Hispanic Black and Native American parents.
Despite these findings, there are limitations. For instance, the study did not specify the type of pump used, and the relationship between pump use and breastfeeding duration may not be causal.
The Role of Pumps in Breastfeeding Success
Many factors, such as returning to work, latching difficulties, or NICU stays, can disrupt direct breastfeeding. Demi Lucas, IBCLC and Clinical Manager at The Lactation Network, highlights that pumps can be a vital tool in such situations. They help maintain milk production and extend breastfeeding duration even when direct feeding isn’t possible.
How To Choose and Use The Right Pump?
To support successful pumping, Dr. Ferry recommends a double electric hospital-grade pump for efficiency. Many insurance plans and WIC programs cover these pumps, and hospitals often rent them out. To maximize milk production, it’s essential to pump frequently, ideally 6 to 10 times a day. If you face challenges, a lactation consultant can provide valuable assistance.
The Benefits of Human Milk for Digestive Health
A recent study from Yale School of Medicine explored how human milk affects infant intestinal health. Researchers grew mini-guts from human intestinal tissue and compared their development when supplemented with human milk, donor milk, standard formula, or partially hydrolyzed formula. They found that human milk led to more robust and healthier mini-guts, promoting better immune protection and cell function in the intestine compared to formula.
How To Find Lactation Support?
Breastfeeding can be challenging, but support is available. Lucas recommends reaching out to International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) during pregnancy for guidance. They can provide crucial support both before and after birth. Your pediatrician can also help connect you with lactation resources.
Dr. Ferry emphasizes that even experienced breastfeeding parents may face challenges. “Each baby is unique, and changes in feeding practices or pump use may be necessary,” she says. If you decide to use formula, remember that it is a healthy option and the most important thing is making the best choice for your family.
In summary, whether you choose to pump, breastfeed, or use formula, having access to the right information and support can help you make informed decisions that best meet your family’s needs.
