Well said, Virginia.  I do believe that breast pumps can and do (at times) 
actually interfere with breastfeeding and breast milk feeding.

A couple of decades ago, it was difficult to obtain breast pumps here.  This 
was sad as there were some situations where an efficient pump definitely 
would have been helpful.

Now, there is an abundance of pumps for purchase and some for hire.  A 
scenario I am seeing all too often is:  If breastfeeding directly is not 
working (often due to a disorganised newborn that just needs a touch of 
patience), mother and staff just say "oh well I will pump and give my milk 
via bottle".  A couple of weeks down the line, mother is struggling to pump 
frequently enough and meet all the demands of a new baby, so formula gets 
added, and a couple of weeks later the baby it receiving 100% formula.  This 
is happening despite the fact that most mothers here have 4 months of 
maternity leave, so separation is not the issue.

I need to add that I do have breast pumps for hire in my practice - only one 
brand as there is no choice in multi-user pumps here.  I am grateful to have 
this tool to offer to mothers who need it - mostly as a temporary measure.

Jean Ridler  RN  RM  IBCLC
South Africa   [log in to unmask]

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