How do you store and defrost pumped milk?

Question

Hi ladies, ftm here and my baby is lazy with latching and sucking (why bother when it's easier from a bottle, right? 🙄😂) but I really want her to get my milk over formula. At the moment my milk supply is still coming in (baby is five days old) and I'm only expressing as much as I can right before her feeds every 2-3 hours and supplementing a small amount of formula if she's still hungry after. But I'm hoping my milk supply will increase and I'll be able to pump enough for full feeds soon and also store some for back up. Does all of this sound like a good method? Do you have any tips in increasing my milk supply?

Also, how do you store breastmilk? How long does it last in the fridge or freezer? And if stored in the fridge, is it okay to feed to a newborn cold or should I let it sit out for a while til it warms to room temp? And how do you defrost frozen milk?

Sorry for bombarding with questions lol but any answers and help would be much appreciated. Thanks!! (:

Answer

Baby sucking even after your breasts are empty will signal your body to produce more. So if you plan on exclusively​ breastfeeding don't offer formula unless baby actually needs it. Feeding in demand for the first couple weeks will help bring in your milk and regulate your supply with how much baby needs. And don't pump unless necessary until your supply is regulated. For storing breast milk, pump into a bottle, and transfer the milk into a breast milk storage bag. Mark down how many ounces the bottle said, the bags aren't very accurate, and the date on the bag. I keep 2-4 ounce bags since that's what baby usually eats in one feeding. Freeze the bags flat, they store easier and thaw faster. If you know baby is going to need a bottle the next day, get a bag out 24 hours prior and put it in the fridge and warm in a bowl of warm water or run under the faucet. Here's a good guide for storing milk and personal pics of my stash for a good idea. Deep freezers are best for long term storage if you have one.

Answer

My ex's sister in law would just run it under warm water until it melted

Answer

If you want your supply to increase don't give formula at all. If your baby is still hungry just latch them on or pump more, it'll give you more milk the more you demand your body to give you. During the first month is the most important as your baby will train your body to make exactly what your baby needs. Your baby can never drink too much breast milk either so don't feel bad giving more if they seem hungry.

How do you store and defrost pumped milk?

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