Breastfeeding is an important part of a mother's postpartum journey. It provides vital nutrients to the baby and helps develop its immune system. However, using a breast pump can be a lifesaver for mothers who have to return to work or have trouble nursing their babies. A double electric breast pump is a type of breast pump that uses an electric motor to pump milk from both breasts simultaneously. This essay will discuss the benefits of using a double electric breast pump for both mother and baby.
Benefits for the Mother
- Time-Saving
Using a double electric breast pump saves a considerable amount of time for mothers. The double pump helps mothers to express milk from both breasts simultaneously, which reduces the time required to pump milk. This is especially useful for working mothers with limited time to pump milk during lunch breaks or short breaks.
- More Milk Production
Studies have shown that using a double electric breast pump can increase milk production in mothers. The stimulation of both breasts at the same time signals the brain to produce more milk. The brain thinks the baby feeds on both breasts, stimulating milk production.
- Improved Comfort
A double electric breast pump can be more comfortable for mothers than a manual breast pump. The electric motor of the double pump does the work for the mother, which reduces the effort needed to express milk. Additionally, using a double pump reduces the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome or other hand injuries that can occur from repetitive manual pumping.
- Adjustable Settings
A double electric breast pump has adjustable settings that allow mothers to customize the suction and speed of the pump to their comfort level. This means that mothers can find a setting that works best for them and adjust it as needed.
- Pumping Frequency
A double electric breast pump allows mothers to pump milk more frequently than a manual pump. The double pump is more efficient and requires less time to pump the same amount of milk. More frequent pumping can help to maintain the milk supply and reduce the risk of engorgement or blocked milk ducts.
Read also: How do Breastfeed and Pump Concurrently?
Benefits for the Baby
- Consistency of Milk Supply
A double electric breast pump ensures the baby receives a consistent milk supply. When mothers pump milk, they can store it in a bottle for later use. This means that even when the mother is away from the baby, the baby can still receive breast milk that has the same nutrients and antibodies as if the baby was nursing directly from the mother.
- Improved Nutritional Value
Breast milk is considered the most suitable nourishment for infants. A double electric breast pump guarantees the baby receives all breast milk's essential nutrients and benefits. Breast milk comprises essential nutrients and antibodies that aid in developing a strong immune system for the baby and shielding them from infections.
- More Sleep for the Baby
A double electric breast pump can help the baby sleep longer at night. When the baby is nursing directly from the mother, they may need to wake up more frequently to feed. However, if the mother pumps milk and stores it in a bottle, the baby can drink it when they wake up without waiting for the mother to prepare it.
- Less Colic and Digestive Issues
Infants can digest breast milk more easily than formula, and a double electric breast pump ensures the baby receives fresh, high-quality breast milk. This can reduce the likelihood of colic and other digestive issues in babies.
- Bonding Opportunities
A double electric breast pump can create bonding opportunities for the mother and baby. Even if the mother is away from the baby for an extended period, she can still provide breast milk to the baby, which can help create a strong bond between them. Additionally, when the mother is nursing directly from the breast, there are many opportunities for skin-to-skin contact and eye contact, which can enhance the bonding experience. Using a double electric breast pump allows the mother to continue to provide breast milk to the baby, even when she is not physically present, which can help maintain the bond between them.
- Convenience
A double electric breast pump is more convenient than a manual pump. The electric motor does the work for the mother, which reduces the amount of effort required to express milk. Additionally, the double pump is faster and more efficient than a manual pump, saving the mother time.
- More Hygienic
A double electric breast pump is more hygienic than a manual pump. The double pump has fewer parts, so there are fewer places for bacteria to grow. Additionally, many double electric breast pumps are designed with closed systems, which prevents milk from flowing back into the pump and reduces the risk of contamination.
- Flexibility
A double electric breast pump allows mothers to be more flexible in their breastfeeding routine. They can pump milk and store it in a bottle for later use, which means they can continue to provide breast milk to their baby even when they are away. Additionally, using a double pump allows mothers to pump milk from both breasts simultaneously, reducing the time required to pump milk.
- Cost-effective
While double electric breast pumps can be more expensive than manual pumps, they can be more cost-effective in the long run. Since double pumps are more efficient, they require less time to pump the same amount of milk. This means that mothers can pump more milk in less time, reducing the time they need to take off work. Additionally, using a double pump can help to maintain milk supply, which means mothers may not need to supplement with formula as often.
Read also: How can i increase the fat content of my breast milk?
Conclusion
In conclusion, using a double electric breast pump has many benefits for the mother and the baby. For the mother, using a double pump can save time, increase milk production, improve comfort, and allow for adjustable settings and more frequent pumping. For the baby, using a double pump ensures a consistent milk supply, improves nutritional value, allows for longer sleep periods, reduces colic and digestive issues, and creates bonding opportunities. A double electric breast pump is also convenient, hygienic, flexible, and cost-effective. Therefore, using a double electric breast pump can help mothers maintain their breastfeeding goals while allowing them to return to work and maintain a busy schedule.
