Apr 13 2009
Breast Milk Collection and Storage
As you already know, breast milk is best for your baby. Proper storing and thawing of your breast milk is just as important.
To begin with, rent or purchase a hospital quality electric breast pump. We recommend a Medela dual breast pump, which is often available for rent at your local hospital. Electric pumps are recommended to maintain adequate breast milk supply over a long period of time. Double pumping cuts your pumping time in half, making it easier if you are at work or have a busy schedule at home.
Before you pump, wash your hands thoroughly. Then find a quiet place and a comfortable chair. Have a glass of water or juice at hand. Remember, you should be drinking approximately 6 or more 8-oz glasses of water a day. Gently massage your breast while you think about your baby nursing. Some mothers find it helpful to look at pictures of their babies.
For successful breast milk collection, place the funnel over the center of your nipple before you turn the pump on. Begin at a minimal setting, increasing the strength as you pump. Your nipple should be pulled in a straight, rhythmic motion. If it isn’t, check to see if your seal has been broken. Pump for at least fifteen minutes. Leave your bottles approximately 2/3 full. If you have more breast milk to express, turn off the machine and switch the bottles to new clean ones for further pumping. Once you are done, turn off the machine and gently detach the cones. Be very careful to place the bottles in a place where they will not spill. Clean all pump parts that come in contact with your breasts with hot, soapy water. Follow the pump’s instructions for further cleaning.
Breast milk can be stored in sterilized bags available at the store. It is best to double bag your breast milk to reduce the chance of leakage. Remember to fill the bags 2/3 full as breast milk will expand while freezing. Sterile containers may also be provided to you from the hospital or your nurse. Never add new breast milk to milk that was pumped previously. Label each container with the pumping date.
Milk that will not be used within the next 30 minutes should be placed in the refrigerator or freezer. Store your milk in the back of your freezer and never on the door. Breast milk can be stored up to three months in the back of your “single door” freezer. If you have a freezer located within your refrigerator, store for three weeks only. Milk may be stored for up to six months in a deep freezer. Your breast milk bay be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
It is best to thaw your breast milk in the refrigerator or in a cup or pot of warm water. Do not thaw the milk in very hot water or in a microwave. Never thaw your milk at room temperature if it will take more than one hour to thaw. After the milk is thawed it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before use, swirl the milk to mix it together. Do not store milk that was previously frozen and then thawed.
If you are transporting breast milk, pack it tightly in ice or frozen gel packs. If there are air pockets around the ice packs, fill them with a clean towel. If the milk is slightly thawed upon arrival, it must be used within 24 hours.
