#asktheexperts hello doctor,
I am a mother of 5 months old baby girl and I am working women, could you please tell me how to preserve mother milk after pumping and can we give it to baby when it is cool

Question

#asktheexperts hello doctor,  
I am a mother of 5 months old baby girl and I am working women, could you please tell me how to preserve mother milk after pumping and can we give it to baby when it is cool

Accepted Answer

Preserving and handling breast milk after pumping is important to maintain its quality and safety for your baby. Here are some guidelines:

1. **Storage Containers**: Use clean, BPA-free containers specifically designed for storing breast milk, such as bottles or milk storage bags. Make sure to label each container with the date and time it was pumped.

2. **Storage Duration**: Breast milk can be stored at room temperature, in the refrigerator, or in the freezer. Here are general guidelines:
   - **Room Temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C)**: Up to 4 hours.
   - **Refrigerator (around 39°F or 4°C)**: Up to 4 days.
   - **Freezer (0°F or -18°C or colder)**: Up to 6 months (deep freezer) or up to 12 months (chest freezer).

3. **Handling**: Always wash your hands before expressing or handling breast milk. After pumping, seal the container tightly and store it in the appropriate location (room temperature, refrigerator, or freezer).

4. **Warming and Feeding**: You can feed your baby cold breast milk, but many babies prefer it warmed. To warm it, place the container in a bowl of warm water or under warm running water. Avoid using a microwave to heat breast milk as it can create hot spots that can burn your baby's mouth.

5. **Thawing Frozen Milk**: Thaw frozen breast milk by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or under warm running water. Use thawed milk within 24 hours and do not refreeze it.

6. **Checking for Spoilage**: Always smell and visually inspect breast milk before feeding it to your baby. If it smells sour or has changed color, discard it.

By following these guidelines, you can safely preserve and feed pumped breast milk to your baby, ensuring they receive the best nutrition. If you have specific concerns or questions, consulting a lactation consultant or pediatrician can provide personalized advice.

#asktheexperts hello doctor, I am a mother of 5 months old baby girl and I am working women, could you please tell me how to preserve mother milk after pumping and can we give it to baby when it is cool