How to express and store breast milk?

As a new mom, especially in today’s hectic world, the need to express and store breast milk is sometimes necessary. Whether it’s to return to work, having an illness or even preparing for a night out, stored breast milk can come in handy at several times. During the early days of feeding is when your body is producing excess quantities of milk, and many women take the opportunity to express and store breast milk at this optimal time.

Here are some useful tips and steps to keep in mind while going about it!

• Always wash your hands before expressing, being sanitary is very important. 
• It always helps to find a quiet place to sit and relax before starting.
• Keep a glass of water on hand.
• Some women say that having a picture of their baby to look at helps to allow the let-down reflex to happen.
• Ensure all your equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized, again, being hygienic is key.
• Always write a date on each container before you store it.
• Plastic storage bags are ideal for freezing. Your local chemist will be able to help you with the same.
• It is advisable to freeze your milk after 24 hours of storage in a refrigerator.
• Your stored milk can last in the freezer for a maximum of 3 whole months.
• It is best to defrost your frozen breast milk in the fridge itself.
• You can then reheat it by placing the bottle in a jug of hot water or in a bottle warmer. Do not use direct heat.
• It is highly recommended that you Do not use a microwave for heating breast milk, as it affects the fats and proteins within it.