EXPRESSING AND STORING BREAST MILK

How can I continue breastfeeding when I go back to work?

Many women breastfeed successfully while they are working: but you will need to think ahead and be organized. The most important thing is to have breastfeeding well established and problem free before you go back to work. It is a good idea to start expressing and get your baby used to taking a bottle of expressed milk well before you start work. Get a good breast pump and get used to using it. Many women find it easier to express in the morning (when the breasts are fuller) and while the baby is feeding on the other breast. To encourage let-down, try massaging your breasts. Talk to your employer about breastfeeding breaks and, if necessary, sort out a good place to feed or express while you are at work. Build up a supply of frozen breast milk in the freezer for emergencies. If you decide to bottle feed your baby while you are at work, you may still be able to breastfeed morning and night. Get advice from a lactation consultant.

Can I store my breast milk?

Expressed breast milk can be stored at room temperature for up to two hours or in the fridge for up to 48 hours. It can be frozen for two weeks in the freezer compartment, 3-4 months in a separate door fridge/freezer, or six months in a chest freezer. Thaw it in the fridge or by standing in warm water. Once it is thawed, warm by standing in a bowl of warm water (not boiling, as this can curdle it). Use immediately or follow storage guidelines above. Do not refreeze. Each time breast milk is expressed, it should be put into a clean, closed container. Do not add to already frozen breast milk as this may cause some of the frozen milk to thaw and refreeze – increasing the risk of bacteria growing in the milk.

Is it safe to thaw or warm breast milk in the microwave?

Expressed milk should not be thawed or heated using a microwave oven as this can destroy some of the protective components which strengthen baby’s immune system and help prevent infection. Heating expressed breast milk or infant formula in the microwave is also not recommended as heating can be uneven and your baby’s mouth may be scalded.