As a nursing mother, you may occasionally need to express and store breast milk for various reasons. Whether you have to return to work, want to have a break or need to build up a supply for emergencies, knowing how long expressed breast milk can last is crucial for ensuring your baby’s safety and health. Here’s a comprehensive guide on storing and using expressed breast milk safely.

Why Is Proper Storage of Expressed Breast Milk Important?

Proper storage of expressed breast milk is essential because it helps maintain its nutritional and immunological properties. When breast milk is stored correctly, it remains safe for your baby to consume, even after several hours or days. By following the guidelines below, you can minimize the risk of bacterial contamination and ensure your baby receives the best possible benefits from your breast milk.

How Long Can Expressed Breast Milk Be Stored?

  • At room temperature (between 16-25°C or 60-77°F): Up to 4 hours is generally safe. However, if the room temperature is higher than 25°C (77°F), it’s best to use the milk within 2 hours.
  • In a cooler bag with ice packs: Around 24 hours, as long as the temperature is consistently kept at 4°C (39°F) or lower. Ensure the ice packs are still frozen, and the milk is stored in the main body of the cooler, away from the freezer compartment.
  • In the refrigerator: Up to 4 days for freshly expressed milk and up to 6 months if the milk has been previously frozen. Keep the milk at the back of the refrigerator where it is coldest.
  • In a standalone deep freezer: Up to 12 months if the milk is stored at -18°C (0°F) or lower. Ensure the milk is stored in the main body of the freezer, not on the door.

How to Store and Thaw Expressed Breast Milk?

Follow these guidelines to properly store and thaw expressed breast milk:

  • Use clean containers: Only use BPA-free containers or breast milk storage bags designed specifically for storing breast milk. Clean the containers thoroughly before each use.
  • Label and date: Always label each container or bag with the date it was expressed. Use the oldest milk first to prevent wasting any stored milk.
  • Store in small amounts: Avoid storing large quantities of breast milk in a single container. Divide the expressed milk into small portions to avoid unnecessary wastage.
  • Thaw slowly in the refrigerator: When you need to use frozen breast milk, thaw it gradually by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours. Avoid thawing breast milk at room temperature or using hot water, as these methods can compromise its nutritional qualities.
  • Use thawed milk promptly: Once breast milk is thawed in the refrigerator, use it within 24 hours to ensure freshness and quality.

When Should Expressed Breast Milk Be Discarded?

There are a few instances when it’s necessary to discard expressed breast milk:

  • If it has been at room temperature for more than 4 hours (or 2 hours when the temperature is above 25°C/77°F).
  • If it has been in a cooler for longer than 24 hours.
  • If it has been in the refrigerator for more than 4 days (or more than 6 months if previously frozen).
  • If it has an off-smell or appears clumpy or discolored. These signs may indicate spoilage.
  • If it has been reheated or partially consumed by your baby. Once breast milk has been heated or your baby has drunk from the bottle, bacteria can multiply, and the milk should be discarded.

By understanding the proper storage and usage guidelines for expressed breast milk, you can ensure your baby receives the most nutritious and safe feeding experience. Remember to always follow the recommended storage timelines and discard any milk that may be of concern to safeguard your baby’s health. Happy nursing!

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