As a nursing mother, one of the most important things you can do for your baby is to produce enough milk. Breast milk provides vital nutrients that help your baby grow, develop, and stay healthy. But what do you do with excess milk, or when you’re unsure if your milk is still safe to use? In this article, we’ll answer the common question, can you refreeze breastmilk? We’ll also provide some tips on how to maximize your milk supply so that you always have enough for your growing baby.
Can You Refreeze Breastmilk?
The short answer is no, you should not refreeze breast milk. Breast milk is a perishable food that can spoil quickly. When you freeze breast milk, you halt the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause the milk to go bad. However, when you thaw the milk, these bacteria can start to multiply again, making the milk less safe for your baby to drink.
So, What Should You Do with Excess Milk?
If you have excess breast milk, you have a few options. You can store it in sterilized containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. Alternatively, you can freeze the milk and store it for up to six months in a deep freezer.
Maximizing Your Breastmilk Supply
It’s important to produce enough milk to meet your baby’s needs. Here are some tips to help you maximize your milk supply:
- Pump Frequently: The more often you pump, the more milk your body will produce. Aim to pump every two to three hours, especially in the early weeks after your baby is born.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids to help keep your milk flowing.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help ensure that your milk is packed with nutrients for your baby.
- Get Plenty of Rest: Being tired and stressed can impact your milk supply. Try to get enough rest and relaxation to keep your milk flowing.
- Consider Lactation Supplements: There are many lactation supplements available that can help boost your milk supply. Consult with your doctor before taking any new supplements.
How to Store Breastmilk Safely
When storing breast milk, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that it stays safe for your baby to consume:
- Use Sterilized Containers: Sterilize all containers and pumping equipment before storing breast milk.
- Store Milk in Small Batches: Storing milk in small batches (2-4 ounces) can help minimize waste and allow you to thaw just the right amount for your baby’s needs.
- Label and Date the Milk: Always label each container with the date and time the milk was expressed. Use the oldest milk first to avoid waste.
- Thaw Safely: Do not thaw breast milk in the microwave. Instead, place the container in the refrigerator or warm water to thaw slowly.
- Discard Leftovers: If your baby doesn’t finish a bottle of breast milk within two hours, discard the remaining milk.
Conclusion
To ensure your baby gets the best quality milk, it’s important to properly store and handle your breast milk. While you can’t refreeze breast milk, you can always store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for future use. By following the tips we’ve outlined, you can maximize your milk supply and feel confident that your baby is getting the nutrients they need.
Common Questions and Answers
- Q: How long can breast milk be stored in the freezer?
A: Breast milk can be stored in a deep freezer for up to six months. - Q: Can I mix fresh breast milk with frozen breast milk?
A: Yes, you can mix fresh and frozen breast milk to create a bottle. Just be sure to swirl gently to mix the two liquids, as shaking can damage the milk’s nutrients. - Q: Can I store breast milk in the door of the refrigerator?
A: It’s not recommended to store breast milk in the door of the refrigerator, as the temperature can fluctuate. Instead, store it on a shelf in the middle of the fridge.
References
1. https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/recommendations/handling_breastmilk.htm
2. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/breastfeeding/Pages/Storing-Your-Breastmilk.aspx
3. https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/breastfeeding/freezing-storing-thawing-breastmilk/