Breastfeeding is one of the most valuable experiences for a mother and her baby. In addition to the special bond it creates, it offers many health benefits. These benefits include anti-infective, immunological and developmental benefits for the infant and we also note benefits for the mother, and more broadly, for society.

The benefits of breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is an invaluable source of nutrition and comfort for babies. Here are some of its many benefits.

woman breastfeeding her baby

Optimal nutrition

Breast milk is specially designed to meet nutritional needs of your baby. It is rich in antibodies, proteins, fats, vitamins, essential minerals and even carbohydrates. Breast milk provides complete nutrition and perfect balance for the growth and development of the child.

mother breastfeeding her baby

A better digestion thanks to breast milk

Breast milk is easier to digest as infant milk formulas for infants. So this potentially means fewer gastrointestinal issues for your baby. One of the other benefits of breast milk is that it reflects the flavors of the mother’s diet. The baby is exposed to a variety of tastes from the beginning of life. This may encourage healthier eating habits in the long term.

A strengthening of the immune system thanks to breastfeeding

Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect your baby from infections and illnesses. Breastfed babies tend to be less prone to infections. It is also interesting to note that breastfed children have less risk of developing diseases such as obesity, type 1 and 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases later in life.

Creating a strong emotional bond during feeding

Breastfeeding also promotes emotional bond between mother and child. Just like babywearing, it is a moment of intimacy that strengthens the connection between a baby and his mother. THE skin to skin contact during breastfeeding also helps regulate the baby's body temperature, keeping him warm and comfortable.

strong bond during breastfeeding

Benefits for the baby…and for the mother too!

Breastfeeding can also help the mother recover more quickly after childbirth. It reduces the risk of postpartum bleeding and promotes contraction of the uterus.

It also improves maternal health by helping with weight loss, as well as reducing the risk of certain diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and breast and ovarian cancer.

Breastfeeding, a natural and economical approach

Also, it goes without saying that breastfeeding is the solution the most economical to feed her baby. Breastfeeding your child does not necessarily require purchasing infant milk. In addition to saving money, breastfeeding is the best option. environmentally friendly.

It generates less waste than using infant formula and regularly changing bottles and pacifiers.

mother cuddling her baby after breastfeeding

More generally, breastfeeding contributes to reduce health inequalities. It is accessible to everyone, regardless of socio-economic situation. These benefits make breastfeeding a valuable option for many mothers and their babies.

But, every situation is unique, and breastfeeding may not be possible or desired for some families. The decision to breastfeed should always be made taking into account the needs and preferences of mother and baby.

How can a breast pump support my breastfeeding?

For various reasons, breastfeeding is not always possible. Especially when the mother has to return to work or when other commitments prevent her from being present for each feeding.

This is where the breast pump comes into play, a valuable tool to support breastfeeding. There are electric breast pumps or manuals that can, for example, be rented in pharmacies.

I am looking for a practical and discreet breast pump

Why use a breast pump?

Expressing your milk will allow you and your baby to enjoy all its benefits, even when you cannot be physically present to feed him. Here's how it can help you.

breastfeed to feed your baby
  1. Gain flexibility 🍼 : a breast pump allows you toexpress your milk anytime, anywhere. You can schedule pumping sessions to make sure your baby gets enough milk, even when you are away.
  2. Storing your milk 🧊: a milk pumping device allows you to store your breast milk for later use. You can very easily freeze it in a suitable container. Your baby will be able to drink your breast milk from a bottle, even when you are not available.
  3. Share responsibilities 👨‍👩‍👦 : By allowing other family members or a partner to bottle feed your breast milk, you can share feeding responsibilities of your baby. This can be very beneficial for your well-being and above all, give you the opportunity to rest.
  4. Managing pain or breastfeeding problems 💥 : A breast pump can also be helpful if you are experiencing breastfeeding issues, such as sore nipples or engorgement. He can relieve these problems by releasing milk in a controlled manner.
  5. Return to work with confidence 👩‍💻 : without having to give up breastfeeding! If you return to work, a breast pump will allow you to continue to provide your baby with breast milk which he needs. THE labor code also provides breastfeeding time of one hour per day for your child’s first year!
  6. Maintain your milk production 🥛: when you use a breast pump, you boost your milk production. This ensures that your body continues to produce enough milk to meet your baby's needs, even when you are not with him. You can thus extend the duration of breastfeeding.
mother with her baby at her breast

Reconciling breastfeeding and active life

As you will have understood, breastfeeding offers multiple health benefits, both for the baby and for the mother. However, the realities of daily life can make it difficult to maintain exclusive breastfeeding.

This is where a breast pump may be of interest in addition to breastfeeding, offering mothers a practical solution to enjoy the benefits of breastfeeding, even in situations that make direct breastfeeding impossible.

silent and fully dressed use

I am looking for a practical and discreet breast pump

It is a tool that can provide many benefits to your breastfeeding experience. It gives you the freedom to feed your baby flexibly, maintain consistent milk production, share responsibilities and overcome potential obstacles.

FAQ – Breast Pumps and Breastfeeding

How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?

Several observable signs provide reassurance: a baby who nurses regularly, who can be heard swallowing during feeding, who wets and soils their diapers regularly, and whose weight increases during follow-up weigh-ins. Conversely, a very sleepy baby, few wet diapers, or insufficient weight gain warrant prompt advice. A midwife, a pediatrician, or an IBCLC lactation consultant can observe a feeding and verify that everything is going well.

Is it normal for breastfeeding to hurt?

Tender nipples are common in the first few days, but pain that lasts throughout the feed, cracked nipples or a breast that is red, hot and painful should not be considered normal. The most common cause is positioning or attachment, which can be adjusted. If you have a fever, severe pain or a red patch on your breast, see your midwife or GP quickly.

When is a breast pump useful?

A breast pump supports breastfeeding: for example, it lets you build up a supply before going back to work, relieve engorgement, keep up your milk supply if your baby is in hospital, or let someone close to you give a bottle of breast milk. The right type (manual, electric or hands-free) and flange size depend on how often you will pump and on your anatomy. A midwife or lactation consultant can help you set up a pumping routine that suits you.

How do I choose the right size breast shield for my breast pump?

Measure your nipple at the base: most women need a nipple shield between 10 and 20 mm, which is a long way from the standard 24 mm. Check our size guide to find the right one for you.

Is a hands-free breast pump as powerful as a hospital-grade model?

The best portable models achieve a suction level of 300 mmHg, which is equivalent to a hospital-grade breast pump. This is the case with the Emy Pump hands-free breast pump from Fizimed, which is capable of reliably maintaining a constant suction level throughout the entire pumping session.

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