Things You'll Need:
- Breast pump (optional)
- Bottles or breastmilk freezer bags
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Step 1
Expressing breastmilk by hand is just as effective as using a breast pump. First, wash your hands with soap and water. Massage the breast in a circular motion moving towards the nipple. Place the thumb and forefinger on the areola, about an inch away from the nipple, and press in towards the chest using a rolling motion to express the milk. Once the breastmilk stops flowing, reposition the thumb and forefinger on another part of the areola and repeat.
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Step 2
Using an electric hospital-grade breast pump is the best option for women who pump frequently. These models have automatic suction and the strength of the vacuum can be adjusted to avoid pain or discomfort.
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Step 3
Operating a battery powered breast pump comes with some challenges. Many models don't have an automatic suck-release mechanism so the mother has to turn the pump on and off. Because the vacuum strength can't be adjusted, irritated nipples can result.
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Step 4
Using a manual pump is good for women who only pump their breastmilk occasionally. They're much more affordable than the electric and battery operated breast pumps.
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Step 1
Store milk in a glass or plastic bottle or in a specially designed zip top bag made just for breastmilk. Opaque bottles protect the breastmilk from the breakdown of nutrients better than clear bottles. Bags allow for the greatest amount of nutrient loss.
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Step 2
Keep breastmilk in the refrigerator for up to four days. It is best if breastmilk is refrigerated immediately after pumping.
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Step 3
Freezing breastmilk is also an option. It will keep for three months in a standard freezer and six months in a subzero freezer.
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Step 4
Thaw frozen breastmilk in lukewarm water. Use it within 24 hours and do not refreeze it.
