Presentation Information

Fiona Jardine

Breastfeeding Without Nursing: Why Do Some Breastfeeders Exclusively Pump and What Can We Do to Support Them?

  • Speaker: Fiona Jardine , PhD Candidate, Advanced Lactation Consultant, Postpartum Doula
  • Presentation Type:
  • Duration: 60 Mins
  • Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 Dietetic CEU
Abstract:

Exclusively pumping (EPing) provides a solution to some breastfeeding problems, while still providing most of the benefits of human milk. In addition, the prevalence of EPing is on the rise. However, there is a lack of data on EPing, especially concerning the reasons for EPing and the information and support needs of EPers. My study collected qualitative and quantitative data on these (and many other) topics from over 2,000 EPers; the findings indicate that EPers often get no or bad advice from their health/lactation care providers. This poor knowledge of and negative opinions about EPing often contribute to EPers feeling frustrated and unsupported. In addition, these undesirable experiences threaten both the initiation and duration of breastfeeding-via-EPing. This presentation focuses on the reasons why EPers breastfeed without nursing, their feelings about EPing, their information needs, and what lactation care providers can do to better support EPers.