Certified Lactation Consultant Practice Exam 2025 - Free Lactation Consultant Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary objective of using a breast pump is to extract milk for feeding, storage, or to increase milk supply. This function serves several important purposes for breastfeeding mothers. It allows them to obtain breast milk for situations where direct breastfeeding may not be possible, such as when returning to work or when the infant is temporarily unable to breastfeed. Additionally, pumping can help to maintain or increase a mother’s milk supply, particularly during times when she may be separated from her infant or if the baby is not nursing effectively.

Using a pump can also facilitate the storage of milk, allowing mothers to build a supply that can be used later, accommodating both their needs and the needs of their infants. This process is crucial for ensuring that infants receive the nutrition they need, even in the absence of direct breastfeeding.

In contrast to the other options, which do not align with the main purpose of breast pumping, the choice accurately reflects the multifaceted role of pumping within breastfeeding practices, emphasizing its importance in milk retrieval and maternal health.