According to the CDC, breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for both babies and mothers. Not only does breast milk provide optimal nutrition, but it also supports healthy growth and development. A recent study suggests that the advantages of breastfeeding can be significantly extended through breast pumping.

The study from Yale School of Medicine revealed that individuals who used pumps provided breast milk to their infants for an average of 21 weeks longer than those who did not pump.

This is particularly encouraging given the recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization. Both agencies advocate for breastfeeding children for at least the first two years of life when possible.

“I encourage all [parents] to breastfeed and/or pump to provide breast milk for their babies and to give themselves grace if they can’t provide human milk exclusively for their baby,” Dr. Janelle Ferry, a board-certified neonatologist and director of feeding, nutrition and infant development at Pediatrix Medical Group, told Parents in a recent interview.”

Ferry continued, “We are fortunate to have safe alternatives with formula. Breast milk definitely has benefits that can’t be replicated by formula, and formula will still ensure that a baby gets appropriate nutrition to grow and thrive. I think it’s also important for [parents] to realize that any amount of breast milk they’re able to provide, including in combination with formula, provides benefits to their baby—it doesn’t have to be all or none.”

The study conducted by Dr. Deanna Nardella analyzed data from nearly 20,000 lactating individuals between 2016 and 2021 to explore how pump use affects breastfeeding duration.

The findings revealed that approximately 91% of participants used a breast pump, with those who did breastfeeding for an average of 21 weeks longer than non-pump users.

Furthermore, the research indicated that using a pump was linked to a 37% lower risk of lactation cessation, especially among non-Hispanic Black and Native American parents, who typically have lower breastfeeding rates.

“Despite the observed increase in pump use over the last decade, little is understood about how pump use actually impacts breastfeeding outcomes,” Dr. Nardella commented on the study results. “We set out to better understand the relationship between pump use and breastfeeding duration.”

While the study highlights a strong correlation between pumping and extended breastfeeding, Dr. Nardella cautions that causation cannot be definitively established.

Nevertheless, she hopes the findings will raise awareness and encourage more parents to utilize insurance coverage for breast pumps, thereby supporting their breastfeeding journeys.

 

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