Chapter 14: Collection and Storage

In This Chapter

• Collection basics
• Best times for collection
• Storage containers and storage locations
• Length of storage

"Now that you know the different techniques for expressing breast milk, you're ready to start your collection. You'll feel more secure with a backup supply of milk. If you plan to return to work you'll want to tap into your plentiful supply during your early weeks of breastfeeding. …Perhaps your spouse or partner wants a turn with your breastfeeding baby. Maybe grandma or grandpa want the honors. Breast milk is your baby's favorite food and a stored supply offers you plenty of security."

Basic Collection

"…Make sure the flange of the breast shield is the right size for your breast. You want it to fit properly. Remember that breasts come in all shapes and sizes. If you are large-breasted you may need a larger breast shield. If you have smaller breasts, a reducing insert may work well for you."

Choosing Containers

"…The two types of plastic bottles are polycarbonate and polypropylene. Polycarbonate plastic is clear, hard, and see-through. It's your best choice in bottles if you plan to freeze your breast milk in them. You will probably pay more for them but it's worth it. Polypropylene plastic looks frosted and you can't see through it as well. It's also softer and more pliable. Either type of plastic bottle is suitable for refrigeration or freezing."

Location and Expiration

"…You can store human breast milk in your refrigerator, in any of the containers already discussed. It will keep between five and seven days at 39°F. After this time period you should freeze or discard your milk. This storage location works well if you plan to use your expressed breast milk within a few days."

"…Human breast milk can be stored in a freezer in any of the containers already discussed, except for disposable bottle liners. …You can store breast milk between three and four months. … A deep freeze of Ð20°C or less can store breast milk between 6 and 12 months."