At some point during your breastfeeding experience, you may need to pump or express your breast milk. If you are not going to use it right away, you can store your milk to use in the future. Show Reasons for Collecting and Freezing Breast MilkWomen express their breast milk for many reasons. When you collect expressed breast milk correctly, you can freeze and store it for six months or even longer. You may choose to pump and freeze your breast milk if:
How to Freeze Breast MilkIf you are pumping breast milk for a premature baby or donating to a milk bank, the collection and storage process may be more strict. Ask the hospital staff or the representative at the milk bank for the proper collection and storage guidelines to follow. The following are step-by-step instructions for collecting and freezing breast milk that you plan to use at home for your healthy, full-term baby.
How Long You Can Freeze Breast MilkThe type of freezer you have will determine how long you can store your frozen breast milk.
Freezing Breast Milk for Child CareIf your child goes to a babysitter or a daycare, ask about their breast milk policy. When labeling your breast milk with the date and time, don't forget to include your name and your baby's name. Thawing Frozen Breast MilkWhen it's time to use your frozen breast milk, follow the guidelines for the safe thawing and warming of breast milk.
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