I agree with Barbara Wilson-Clay that while some moms can pump
long-term, it is not very fun.  I have worked with several mothers who
have pumped for nine months or more due to cleft palate, facial anomaly,
etc.  In every case, however, the mothers who continue to pump for more
than a very few months are extraordinarily dedicated and probably would
have been long-term breastfeeders if things had turned out differently.

Unfortunately, it is my experience that some mothers and fathers believe
that pumping and not actually breastfeeding will simplify their lives.
Pain or latch-on problems in the first week can look insurmountable, and
pumping looks like the easy way out.  These women are in for a rude
awakening--many go to formula in a matter of weeks.  For this reason, I
always encourage mothers who are pumping full time to continue offering
the baby the breast as he/she grows and changes.  I have had two mothers
in the past month whose daughters suddenly decided to latch-on after
weeks and weeks of full-time pumping.  Of course, these women are
elated, and I know that these babies will likely receive breastmilk for
much longer than if it was always expressed for them.

Pumps can be wonderful things when babies just cannot breastfeed, but
they can also be a menace when they encourage mothers to "just pump"
rather than continue working to solve problems.

Becky Butler, IBCLC
La Plata, MD