Breast milk is a precious and invaluable source of nutrition for infants, providing vital antibodies and nutrients that help build a strong immune system. As a Lactation Consultant Aetna, it is important to educate new mothers on how to properly store and handle breast milk to ensure it remains safe and nutritious for their babies.
Properly storing breast milk is crucial to maintaining its nutritional value. Breast milk can be stored in different ways depending on how soon it will be used. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 hours. If the room is warm (above 77°F or 25°C), it is best to refrigerate the milk within 1 hour of expression.
Breast milk can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is essential to label the milk with the date it was expressed to ensure that the oldest milk is used first. If the breast milk is not going to be used within 4 days, it can be stored in the freezer. In the freezer compartment of a refrigerator, breast milk can be stored for up to 2 weeks, while in a deep freezer, it can be stored for up to 6 months.
When handling breast milk, it is important to follow strict hygiene practices to prevent contamination. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before expressing or handling breast milk. Use clean containers, such as breast milk storage bags or BPA-free bottles, to store the milk. Avoid using regular plastic bags or formula bottle bags, as they may not be sterile and could contaminate the milk.
It is best to use breast milk storage bags that are designed for storing breast milk, as they are sterile and leak-proof. When transferring breast milk from a pump bottle to a storage bag, ensure that the bag is tightly sealed to prevent leaks and spills. Avoid overfilling the bags to allow room for expansion when the milk freezes.
Properly thawing frozen breast milk is also important to maintain its nutritional value. Breast milk should be thawed gradually in the refrigerator or by placing the storage bag or bottle in warm water. Do not use a microwave to thaw breast milk, as it can create hot spots that could burn the baby’s mouth. Gently swirl or rotate the container to mix the thawed milk and use it within 24 hours.
As a lactation consultant Aetna, it is important to educate new mothers on the proper ways to store and handle breast milk to ensure that their babies receive the full benefits of this precious resource. By following these guidelines, mothers can rest assured that their breast milk is safe, nutritious, and ready to nourish their little ones.
For more information visit:
Nurturing Nectar: Lactation Consultant Long Beach, Torrance, Gardena & South Bay cities of Los Angeles
https://www.nurturingnectar.org/
Nurturing Nectar provides breastfeeding support for families in Long Beach, CA, as well as in Torrance, Gardena and throughout the South Bay cities of Los Angeles. Services are led by Alicia Gonzalez, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
