What to pay attention to with pumped milk?

Even in the first few weeks after the baby is born, there are situations such as shopping, doctor’s appointments, visits or social obligations which cause you to be away from home for longer periods of time.

Check first if you can take your baby with you, maybe also with someone to assist you. You’ll always be able to find a quiet spot to breastfeed. If it is not possible to take the baby with you, you can pump off milk beforehand. The father or other caregiver can give the breast milk in a bottle.

Pumped breast milk has to be handled carefully. Get advice from your midwife.

Pumped milk can be kept in the fridge at +4°C – +6°C (please check the temperature with a thermometer) in a suitable, tightly closed, clean bottle (glass or plastic) for a maximum of 2 days. The pumped milk should not be kept in the door, but at the back of the fridge – where it is coldest.

Important

All objects that come into contact with breast milk must be thoroughly cleansed! Wash bottles and teats with warm soapy water and brush and sterilise for 3 minutes or wash in the dishwasher at 65°C.

If the milk is to be kept for longer, it should be frozen at least -20°C in a 4-star freezer compartment. It is best defrosted slowly in the fridge over 24 hours, or quickly in cold or lukewarm running water (max. 37°C). The seal of the bottle should stay dry. Using a microwave to defrost is not suitable.

It is a good idea to swirl the bottle briefly before use (circular movements, do not shake!) as the fat in the milk may have settled.