Research indicates that there are numerous benefits for women who express their breast milk. In the period after giving birth (postpartum), breast milk expression can contribute to:

• A faster return to pre-pregnancy weight and hip circumference, since the body uses fat that was stored during pregnancy for early milk production


• A more rapid return of the uterus to its pre-pregnancy state through the releases of the hormone oxytocin


• A slower return of ovulation and menstruation, which can aid in natural child spacing


• A decrease in bleeding


• A decreased loss of iron and a reduced risk of anemia


• A decreased risk of hip fractures and osteoporosis


• A sense of satisfaction knowing the donor is providing complete nutrition to babies in need