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What are the side effects of pumping breast milk?

Understanding the Side Effects of Pumping Breast Milk
Pumping breast milk has become a common practice among new mothers, offering flexibility and convenience, especially for those balancing work and family life. However, while it provides significant benefits, it also comes with a range of potential side effects that can affect both the mother and the infant.
Physical Discomfort and Pain
One of the most immediate side effects of using a breast pump is nipple pain. Many mothers report discomfort during and after pumping sessions, which can stem from improper pump settings or ill-fitting flanges. This pain can discourage regular pumping, leading to decreased milk supply over time. Additionally, some mothers may experience breast engorgement if the pump does not effectively empty the breasts, causing further discomfort and potential complications like mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue.
Impact on Milk Supply
Interestingly, while pumping is often used to establish or maintain milk supply, it can paradoxically lead to decreased milk production in some cases. This can occur if the pumping routine does not mimic the baby’s natural feeding patterns, which are crucial for stimulating milk production. Mothers who pump exclusively without breastfeeding may find it challenging to maintain an adequate supply, as the body responds to the baby’s demand.
Emotional and Psychological Effects
The emotional toll of pumping can also be significant. Many mothers experience feelings of stress and anxiety related to their pumping schedules, especially when balancing work commitments or social activities. This pressure can lead to a sense of isolation, as pumping can be a time-consuming and sometimes cumbersome task. Furthermore, the societal expectations surrounding breastfeeding can exacerbate these feelings, making mothers feel inadequate if they struggle with pumping or milk supply issues.
Infections and Other Health Risks
Using a breast pump can also increase the risk of infections, particularly if the equipment is not properly cleaned. Bacteria can thrive in breast pumps, leading to conditions such as mastitis or thrush, which can complicate the breastfeeding journey. Additionally, some mothers may develop skin irritation or allergic reactions to the materials used in breast pump components, further complicating their experience.
Conclusion
While pumping breast milk offers undeniable advantages, such as flexibility and the ability to share feeding responsibilities, it is essential for mothers to be aware of the potential side effects. From physical discomfort and emotional stress to risks of decreased milk supply and infections, understanding these challenges can help mothers make informed decisions about their breastfeeding journey. As with any aspect of motherhood, seeking support and guidance can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of pumping.

Are there any negative effects of pumping breast milk?

For some lactating parents the pump does not remove the milk as well as the infant does, leading to lower production. For others, the breast pump removes more milk than the baby does, leading to over production, which increases the risk of mastitis, galactoceles, and breast abscesses.

What does pumping breast milk do to your body?

“Pumping increases milk production if a mother is pumping in addition to nursing her baby. But if she is pumping and then skipping breast feedings, pumping may decrease milk supply.”

How to tell if you’re getting mastitis?

Symptoms may include:

  • Breast tenderness or warmth.
  • Breast swelling.
  • Thickening of breast tissue, or a breast lump.
  • Pain or a burning feeling all the time or while breastfeeding.
  • Skin redness, often in a wedge-shaped pattern.
  • Feeling ill.
  • Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3 degrees Celsius) or greater.

What are the risks of pumping?

The most commonly reported problem was that the pump did not extract enough milk and the most commonly reported injury was sore nipples. Using a battery-operated pump and intending to breastfeed less than 12 months were associated with higher risks of pump-related problems and injury.

Is pumped breastmilk healthy?

Many people choose to use a breast pump so that they can continue to provide breast milk while away from their baby (for example, when returning to work or school) or if their baby is hospitalized. Breast milk has many benefits for your baby whether you breastfeed or use a pump.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

What are the disadvantages of breast pumping?

Disadvantages of using a breast pump include: Fewer immune system benefits. Using a breast pump is preferable to formula but may not be tailored to the baby’s needs at the moment. It doesn’t offer the same benefits to the baby’s immune system as breastfeeding does.

How long should I pump per session?

Many women find that pumping for about two minutes after the last drop of milk is an effective way to stimulate more milk, however, avoid pumping for longer than 20 – 30 minutes at a time. If you need more milk, pump more frequently, rather than longer.

How to avoid mastitis when pumping?

If You’re Pumping, Follow a Regular Schedule: If you are unable to continue to latch due to pain or discomfort, it’s very important to continue to pump, at minimum, every three hours around the clock to avoid compromising your milk supply. Frequent and effective milk removal is key to resolving mastitis.

Does breastmilk lose nutrients when pumped?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), freshly expressed breast milk can be safely kept at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. Generally, when freshly pumped, breast milk is at its peak regarding nutrients.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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