Pumping versus Breastfeeding

In a perfect world every mother would be able to breastfeed, every baby would latch on without problems, and there would be no complications.  But, we don't live in a perfect world and there are many reasons women don't or can't breastfeed.  And no one should be ridiculed or made to feel guilty for the choice they make when it comes to feeding their baby.  it's a very personal choice and one that is no one's business to judge.

Many women want  to give their baby breastmilk but don't want to breastfeed.  That's understandable and even admirable.  Many women are uncomfortable nursing. Some people feel self-conscious, others feel isolated.  Some don't like the way breastfeeding feels, others find it painful ( and it can be at first).  Some don't want to have to breastfeed in public, and for some, it's just a matter of time-literally.  breastfeeding is time-consuming.

Lactation consultants don't often tell you all these things.  If they did, perhaps new mothers would have more realistic expectations and not feel so let down when it doesn't all go perfectly.

One option?  Pumping and bottle feeding.  The number of new moms doing this is increasing.  Pumping is less time-consuming since you can pump both breasts at once.  There's even a hands-free pumping bra that lets you pump while doing other things like reading or emailing etc.  It can be scheduled around your life as opposed to scheduling your life around feeding your baby.  It allows other members of your family to get involved in the feeding process and help with their baby bonding.

Certainly breastfeeding is wonderful and you should do it if you can or if it works for you and your famly.  But if you don't want to, or can't, then pumping is a great option.  Your baby is getting liquid gold and you can go about your life as you wish.  It's a win-win situation.  No one should make you feel bad about it, just as they shoudln't make you feel bad if you decide to feed your baby formula.