ABC's of Breastmilk

I had to post this on my fridge because in my sleep deprived, zombie (or 'mombie) like state I couldn't retain information.  I amalgamated recommendations from BC Women's Hospital (Breastfeeding clinic) and a great website they recommended    http://kellymom.com/   to create this list.

Storing Breast milk:

• Freshly Expressed milk:
• 6 hours (at room temperature)
• 24 hours (insulated cooler with ice packs)
• Refrigerated breast milk: 5 days or 24 hours if previously frozen
• Once taken out of fridge, good for 4 hours
• May be rewarmed a couple of times for next feeding only
• Frozen milk: Do not refreeze!
• In freezer with separate door: 3 months or 2 weeks if fridge/freezer door, 6 months in deep freeze
• Must thaw frozen milk in fridge or under warm water if used immediately

Do not shake breast milk, swirl! It could diminish nutrients. Do not warm on stove or in microwave. Use bottle warmer or cup of hot water. Keep water away from neck of bottle. ALWAYS test temperature on your wrist, should be feel like nothing (ie room temp).
http://www.kellymom.com/bf/pumping/milkstorage.html

• I have 6-7 BPA free milk storage bags in 2 and 4 oz in my freezer. It is reassuring in case of emergency. Small quantities are helpful if your baby just needs a 'top up'. (Less wasteful). I occasionally use, (oldest to newest) and restock so milk is no older than 2 months. (Your milk changes as your baby grows).