The most common reason for using a breast pump during breastfeeding is to store milk so your baby can still have breast milk when you're not around. Even when you're with your baby, using a breast pump can help maintain your milk supply. If you plan to continue breastfeeding after returning to work, expressing and storing milk becomes even more necessary.
Additionally, using a breast pump can stimulate milk production and increase milk supply. If your baby is premature or cannot latch on, using a breast pump to collect milk not only ensures your baby receives precious breast milk but also relieves the pain and pressure from engorgement. However, it's important not to pump too frequently when your breasts are engorged, as this can worsen the situation.
In more special circumstances, if your doctor advises you to temporarily stop breastfeeding, such as because you are taking medication that may be harmful to your baby or you need a short-term hospital stay, using a breast pump to express milk during the time you cannot breastfeed can help maintain a sufficient milk supply.
While some people prefer hand expression, most people find using a breast pump faster and easier. At first, you may feel uncomfortable and strange using a "machine" to suck out milk from your breasts, but usually you will get used to it after a short time.
