Introduction
Breastfeeding is the most natural way to give infants the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. However, for various reasons—work commitments, health issues, or personal preferences—many mothers choose to express and store breast milk. While this flexibility is empowering, it ensures that milk is represented and stored correctly to maintain its nutritional integrity. This blog will provide actionable insights into the process, covering everything from expression techniques to safe storage practices.
Milk Expression: Best Practices
Choosing the Right Method - Expressing breast milk can be done manually or with the help of a breast pump. Each method has its advantages:
- Manual Expression: Ideal for occasional use, manual expression requires no special equipment. With practice, it can be an effective and gentle method.
- Breast Pumps: Pumps are a time-efficient option, especially for mothers who must express milk frequently. They are available in two types:
- Manual Pumps: Affordable and portable, but require physical effort.
- Electric Pumps: Offer convenience and efficiency, particularly for working mothers or those pumping exclusively.
When choosing a pump, consider factors like suction strength, comfort, portability, and ease of cleaning.
Preparing for Expression - Preparation is key to successful milk expression:
- Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Ensure all equipment, including pump parts and containers, is sterilized.
- Environment: Create a calm and comfortable setting. Relaxation aids milk letdown, so try listening to soothing music or looking at your baby’s photo.
- Stimulation: Gently massage your breasts or apply a warm compress to stimulate milk flow before starting.
Technique and Frequency - Effective expression requires proper technique:
- Position the breast shield or hands comfortably on the breast. Ensure a secure fit if using a pump to avoid discomfort or inefficient milk flow.
- Pump or express rhythmically, mimicking a baby’s natural suckling.
- Alternate breasts every 10-15 minutes or as needed to ensure even expression.
The frequency of expression depends on your baby’s feeding schedule. Aim for 8-12 sessions in 24 hours to match a newborn’s needs.
Milk Storage: Guidelines for Safe Storage for Expressed Milk
Safe Storage Containers - Choose appropriate containers to store expressed milk safely:
- Sterilized Bottles: Made of BPA-free plastic or glass, these are ideal for short-term storage.
- Breast Milk Storage Bags: Disposable and space-saving, these are great for freezing. Ensure they are specifically designed for breast milk.
- Label each container with the date and time of expression to ensure proper usage.
Temperature and Storage Duration - Follow these guidelines for storing breast milk:
- Room Temperature (up to 25°C/77°F): Safe for 4-6 hours.
- Refrigerator (4°C/39°F or colder): Safe for up to 4 days. Store milk at the back of the fridge, not in the door, to avoid temperature fluctuations.
- Freezer (-18°C/0°F or colder): Safe for 6 months, with up to 12 months being acceptable in some cases.
Avoiding Contamination
- Avoid touching the inside of storage containers or lids.
- Use sterilized equipment for every session.
- Transfer milk carefully to prevent spillage and contamination.
Preserving Nutritional Quality
Impact of Storage on Nutrients: While breast milk retains most of its nutritional value when stored correctly, improper storage can degrade some nutrients and bioactive components:
- Enzymes and Antibodies: These are sensitive to high temperatures and prolonged storage.
- Fat Content: Freezing may cause some separation, but gently swirling thawed milk can restore its consistency.
Tips for Retaining Nutritional Value
- Thawing: Always thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator or by placing the container in warm water. Avoid using a microwave or boiling the milk, as this can destroy nutrients.
- Rotation: Use the oldest milk first to minimize nutrient loss over time.
- Small Portions: Store milk in smaller quantities (60-120 ml) to reduce waste and maintain freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling Containers: Leave some space at the top for milk expansion during freezing.
- Refreezing Thawed Milk: Once thawed, milk should not be refrozen.
- Inconsistent Labeling: Always mark the date and time on storage containers.
- Improper Thawing: Avoid using direct heat or microwaves to warm milk.
- Storing in Fridge Doors: Place milk at the back of the fridge, where temperatures stabilize.
Proper milk expression and storage are vital for preserving the nutritional quality of breast milk. By following best practices, you ensure that your milk remains a safe and nutrient-rich food source for your baby. Remember, every drop of breast milk is a gift of health and nourishment.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, consult a lactation expert or reach out to trusted resources. Embrace this journey with confidence, knowing that you’re providing the best for your baby.
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2018). Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Pediatrics, 142(2), e20181074. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2018-1074
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, October 6). Breastfeeding: How to store breast milk. https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/recommendations/handling_breastmilk.htm
- World Health Organization. (2009). Infant and young child feeding: Model chapter for textbooks for medical students and allied health professionals. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241597494
- Mohrbacher, N., & Stock, J. (2016). The breastfeeding answer book (4th ed.). La Leche League International.
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2016). Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Promoting and supporting breastfeeding. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 116(3), 507-518. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2015.12.014
