Expression and Storage of Breastmilk
Hand Expression
- Stimulate milk flow by applying warm cloths to breasts and
using breast massage; think about your baby
- Feel for your milk ducts (they feel like small grape clusters
under the skin, near the outer edge of areola)
- Grasp the breast in a "C" hold, thumb on top and
first 2 fingers underneath the breast over the milk ducts
- Press straight back toward your chest wall; gently compress
the thumb and fingers together, rolling forward over the ducts
- Repeat this motion, moving around the breast until all ducts
have been expressed and areola is soft
- At first you may collect only a small amount of milk; the
flow will increase with time and practise
Pumping
- It is important to consider your reason for pumping when
you choose your breast pump. For occasional use a manual or
battery-operated pump may be sufficient, but for maintaining
milk supply a good quality electric pump is more efficient
- Consider double-pumping - it cuts down on pumping time and
is more effective in maintaining milk supply
- Electric pump: Single-sided pumping-pump for 10-15
minutes each side. Double pumping-pump for 7-10 minutes
- Manual pump: Pump for 15-20 minutes each side
Storage of Breastmilk
Freshly expressed breastmilk may be stored:
- At room temperature - up to a maximum of 8 hours
- In a refrigerator - up to 8 days
- In the freezer - up to 6 months (in back corner of freezer
section of fridge or in deep freezer)
- Glass is the best choice for storing breastmilk. If you choose
to store breastmilk in disposable bottle liners, use double
liners to avoid tearing and squeeze out the air at the top
before sealing. Place sealed bag upright in a container to
avoid spilling until milk is frozen.
- Store breastmilk in small amounts (leftovers must be discarded)
- Chill freshly expressed breastmilk in fridge before adding
to previously chilled or frozen breastmilk
Thawing Breastmilk
Thaw frozen breastmilk in fridge overnight (use within 24
hours) or hold frozen milk under cool running water and gradually
add warmer water. Shake gently until milk is thawed and thoroughly
mixed; use immediately.
Do not refreeze breastmilk.
Microwaving breastmilk is NOT recommended.
Returning to Work?
Tips for returning to work
For more information, contact the Parent Talk Line at 905-688-8248
or 1-888-505-6074 extension 7555.
