As a new mom, one of the most important things you can do for your baby’s nutrition is to provide them with the precious gift of breast milk.
But what happens when you need to be away from your baby or want to build up a supply for emergencies? Enter pumping and storing breast milk!
With the right knowledge and practices, you can ensure that your breast milk remains fresh and safe for your little one. In this blog post, we’ll explore some valuable tips to help you effectively pump and store breast milk.
Start with Clean Hands and Sterile breast pump:
Before every pumping session, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. This step helps prevent any bacteria from coming into contact with your breast milk. Additionally, it’s crucial to keep your breast pump clean and sterilized. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or use steam or boiling water to sterilize the pump parts.
Proper Pumping Technique:
Using the correct pumping technique can make a significant difference in the quantity and quality of breast milk you express. Find a comfortable and relaxing spot, preferably with privacy. Gently massage your breasts to stimulate milk flow, and adjust the pump to a level that feels comfortable but effective. Experiment with different pumping patterns, such as starting with a high suction level and gradually reducing it, mimicking a baby’s natural feeding pattern.
Choose the Right Storage Containers:
When it comes to storing breast milk, opt for BPA-free containers specifically designed for breast milk storage. Consider using small portions, such as 60 -120 ml, to minimize waste and make thawing easier. Use screw-top bottles, storage bags, or containers with leak-proof lids to prevent any spills or contamination.
Label and Date Your Milk:
To maintain an organized system and ensure you use the oldest milk first, label each container with the date it was expressed. If you plan to freeze the milk, add a label with your baby’s name as well. This simple step helps prevent confusion and waste.
Safe Storage Temperatures:
Breast milk is a living substance that contains valuable nutrients and antibodies. To preserve its integrity, it’s crucial to store it at the right temperature. Freshly expressed milk can be kept at room temperature (around 77°F or 25°C) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator, it can last up to 4 days (at or below 39°F or 4°C). If you need to store breast milk for an extended period, consider freezing it. In a standard freezer (at or below 0°F or -18°C), breast milk can be safely stored for up to 6 months. However, using it within 3 months is ideal to maintain its quality.
Thawing and Warming Breast Milk:
When it’s time to use the stored milk, thaw it by transferring it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Avoid thawing breast milk at room temperature, as this can lead to bacterial growth. To warm the milk, place the container in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer.
Guidelines for Using Expressed Milk:
It’s essential to follow some guidelines when using expressed breast milk. Check the milk for any changes in colour, odour, or texture before feeding it to your baby. If it looks or smells off, discard it. Once thawed or warmed, use the milk within 1-2 hours to maintain its freshness and nutritional value. Never refreeze breast milk that has been thawed.
Pumping and storing breast milk can provide you with flexibility and peace of mind, allowing you to ensure your baby receives the benefits of breastfeeding even when you can’t be there. By following these tips, you can maintain the freshness and safety of your breast milk, providing your little one with a healthy and nourishing food source.
Remember, every drop of breast milk is a precious gift, and your efforts in pumping and storing it will be rewarded with a thriving and happy baby.