Pumping Is Breastfeeding: An Op-Ed on Supporting Black Moms

The notion that pumping breast milk isn’t “real” breastfeeding is a harmful hierarchy that needs dismantling, especially during Black Breastfeeding Week. This perspective not only invalidates the immense effort of mothers who exclusively pump but also disproportionately impacts Black mothers, who already face significant hurdles in maternal and neonatal care. Carrying, delivering, and nourishing a child is a labor of love, regardless of the method. Whether through direct latching, pumping, or other means, every mother’s journey deserves respect and support.

The Judgment Faced by Pumping Mothers

The author shares a personal anecdote about her friend Nichelle, who faced judgment in an online community for her exclusive pumping journey. Despite having access to lactation education, Nichelle was told her milk would dry up if she didn’t latch her baby, and that pumping “didn’t really count” as breastfeeding. This experience highlights how even within supportive spaces, a hierarchy can form, creating barriers rather than fostering community.

Nichelle, now an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), emphasizes that the definition of breastfeeding is “from the breast, not at the breast.” Yet, many professionals and parents cling to a narrow view, seeing pumping as a lesser alternative. This bias is compounded by the lack of paid parental leave, forcing many mothers back to work shortly after giving birth, leaving them little choice but to pump.

Pumping: An Essential Labor of Love

Statistics reveal that exclusive pumping is a reality for a significant percentage of families, particularly for premature infants where direct nursing might not be immediately possible. For these babies, breast milk is essential, making pumping a vital method of nourishment. Nichelle’s own journey, from “winging it” to seeing her son exceed milestones, underscores the dedication and love involved in pumping.

Even in professional settings, the bias against pumping persists. Nichelle recounts being initially told she couldn’t be a peer counselor by a breastfeeding organization because she hadn’t latched, despite having nine months of pumping experience. While she eventually pushed back and the organization changed its stance, the initial rejection highlights the systemic bias. This bias can lead mothers to feel othered, even when they are providing essential nourishment for their babies.

Systemic Change and Community Support

For pumping to be more sustainable, systemic changes are needed, including paid parental leave and universal coverage for lactation care by qualified professionals. Nichelle argues that policy should reflect the essential nature of feeding babies, stating, “If babies don’t eat, babies die. Policy should reflect that.” She also acknowledges the vital role of online communities, which often serve as a lifeline for non-traditional breastfeeding experiences when professional support is lacking.

Connecting this to a painful history, Nichelle notes that breastfeeding rights were historically stripped from Black and Brown ancestors. By dismissing diverse feeding paths, we risk limiting options for families. The truth is, pumping is breastfeeding, and it’s time for our language, policies, and communities to fully embrace and support this reality. Every drop of milk, every pumping session, is an act of selflessness and devotion.