Becoming a new parent comes with a steep learning curve. If you’re a breastfeeding mom, understanding how to properly handle breast milk is crucial. Whether you’re returning to work, stocking up for a night away, or just want to ensure your baby has a supply of your milk on hand, freezing breast milk can be a game-changer. So, let’s explore how to do this safely and effectively.

How to Freeze Breast Milk

If you’ve chosen to breastfeed, freezing breast milk isn’t just practical; it’s also a wonderful way to make sure your little one has access to your milk’s nourishment, even when you can’t be there. Here’s how you can store that liquid gold:

• Start with Clean Hands and Supplies: Wash your hands thoroughly before expressing or handling your milk. Ensure that all storage containers and pumps are clean and sterilized.
• Choose the Right Containers: Use breast milk storage bags or BPA-free plastic bottles designed for milk storage. These specialized containers are made to withstand freezing temperatures and help preserve the milk’s quality.
• Label Clearly: Write the date on the storage container before adding milk. Some parents also include the time and the baby’s name if the milk is going to a childcare provider.
• Portion Wisely: Store milk in small quantities (2-4 ounces is common) to prevent waste. Babies typically eat smaller amounts more frequently, and smaller portions also thaw more quickly.
• Leave Some Space: Breast milk expands as it freezes, so leave about an inch of space at the top of the container.
• Store It Safely: Place the containers in the back of the freezer, where the temperature is most consistent. If you have a deep freeze, use that; breast milk can be stored longer at lower temperatures.

How to Thaw Breast Milk

When it’s time to use your frozen stash, you’ll also need to know how to thaw breast milk safely. 

• Plan Ahead: Thaw the oldest milk first. The milk can be stored in a regular freezer for up to six months, but using it within three months is optimal. Additionally, if you have a deep freezer handy, you can store breast milk for up to 12 months. 
• Thaw in the Fridge: Move the milk from the freezer to the refrigerator for a slow thaw overnight. If you need it sooner, you can hold the container under cool running water, gradually increasing the temperature to lukewarm.
• Use a Bowl of Warm Water: Alternatively, set the container in a bowl of warm water. This method can quickly bring the milk to a temperature your baby will appreciate.
• Swirl, Don’t Shake: Gently swirl the milk to mix any fat that has separated without shaking the container, as vigorous shaking can damage some of the milk’s components.

Can You Refreeze Breast Milk?

This question comes up often, and it’s crucial to know the do’s and don’ts.

• After Thawing: Refreezing thawed breast milk is not recommended. Once breast milk is thawed, it should be kept in the refrigerator and used within 24 hours.
• After Warming: Absolutely not. Once breast milk has been warmed to feeding temperature, it should be used within two hours and should never be refrozen.
• Unused Portions: If your baby doesn’t finish a bottle of thawed breast milk, it’s best to discard the unused portion to prevent any bacterial growth that could be harmful.

By following these guidelines, you can safely store your breast milk, ensuring your baby can benefit from it even when you’re apart.

Prepare for Pregnancy and Beyond with 2Me Healthcare

Whether you’re about to have a newborn or are still planning ahead for your pregnancy, it’s essential to work with healthcare providers who listen to your concerns and can help create a plan for your unique needs. If you want to work with a midwife offering holistic pregnancy and fertility support, OB2me is here to help.

At OB2me, we offer private in-home or in-office concierge midwifery care to support you with comfortable prenatal and postpartum care for you and your family. We are also available to help you throughout your labor and delivery at the hospital.

OB2me provides multiple packages and services to fit your needs best and make your transition from pregnancy to motherhood as stress-free as possible in the Alpharetta, Marietta, and greater Atlanta, Georgia area. Just contact our team today and see how working with a dedicated and passionate healthcare provider can make all the difference!