If you’re expecting a baby soon, you might have quite a few questions or concerns about breastfeeding. Although the best way for breastfeeding is having your baby directly latched on to your breast, there are some situations where this may not be possible. Here are some common questions you may have about expressing and storing breast milk.
Why should I express breast milk?
There are a number of reasons why you might need to express breast milk. The most common are:
- Your baby is premature and may be in special care for checks
- Your breasts are engorged and feeling full
- You want to maintain or increase supply
- You have abundant production and need to extract and store it
- You have to be away from your baby for an amount of time
- Your partner wants to help with feeding the baby
How do I express breast milk?
To express breast milk you can either do this by hand or use a breast pump. This will depend on how many times a day you will need to express, the environment in which you will express, how long you will express for, and on your own preferences. It is best to choose a time when you feel relaxed and comfortable. Having your baby close will also help your milk to flow because of Oxytocin. Even looking at a photo of them may do the trick!
Expressing by hand is a method that must be explained and taught by competent and experienced personnel. A breast pump is also a good way to express breast milk; you can choose between a manual and electric one. This will depend on how frequently you will be using the breast pump. In the case of temporary and occasional separation from your baby, a manual breast pump can be used. If the separation is more frequent during the delay and for a prolonged time, it will be more comfortable and efficient to choose an electric breast pump. If you’re going to be using it daily and on a regular basis, for example up to 7-8 times a day, you can also opt for a double electric breast pump in order to collect more milk in less time.
How do I store expressed breast milk?
Expressed breast milk can be stored in a sterilised container or breast milk storage bags. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days or for up to 6 months in the freezer. Once it has been cooled or defrosted, breast milk can be carried in a cooler bag with ice packs for up to 24 hours. Anything left over should be thrown away, so it is best to freeze in small quantities. Remember to label and date all your expressed breast milk.
We hope that you have found this helpful whether you’re about to start or have started your breastfeeding journey. It’s good to talk about your breastfeeding experience – the more we talk and share, the more other new mums can feel less alone and more supported in their own breastfeeding journey.
The Chicco range of breast pumps can be found locally both in store and online.
