What is a breast pump used for?

A breast pump is primarily utilized to extract milk from the breast, allowing mothers to store the milk for later use or feed it to their infant. This process can be particularly beneficial for mothers who may need to be away from their baby or who wish to ensure their child receives breast milk even when direct breastfeeding is not possible.

Using a breast pump can also support mothers who may struggle with latching during breastfeeding or experience other challenges that impede direct feeding. The milk expressed can be stored and fed in various settings, ensuring the infant continues to receive the nutritional benefits of breast milk.

The other options present alternative uses of breast pumps but do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of these devices. For example, while enhancing milk production can be a benefit of pumping, its primary function is to extract milk. Additionally, though some may consider pumping a substitute for breastfeeding, it is generally viewed as a complementary method. Testing the quality of breast milk is not a specified function of breast pumps; instead, this is typically done through laboratory testing.