Returning to work after maternity leave can be an exciting yet challenging transition for new mothers. One of the common concerns among working mothers is how to continue breastfeeding while managing work responsibilities.
Health experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life. When a mother returns to work, breast milk pumping and safe breast milk storage can help ensure that the baby continues to receive the benefits of breast milk even when the mother is away.
With proper knowledge and preparation, pumping and storing breast milk can become a practical part of a working mother’s routine.
What Is Breast Milk Pumping and When Can You Start?
Breast milk pumping is the process of expressing milk from the breasts either manually or using a breast pump.
For mothers planning to return to work, it can be helpful to start practising breast milk pumping two to three weeks before returning to work. This gives both the mother and baby time to gradually become comfortable with the new routine.
Maintain Proper Hygiene
Hygiene is extremely important when expressing and storing breast milk.
Before pumping:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Clean the breast pump and all its components properly.
- Wash bottles and other storage containers with soap and hot water.
- Sterilise the pumping equipment and containers as recommended.
Maintaining proper hygiene helps reduce the risk of contamination and ensures that expressed breast milk remains safe for the baby.
How to Store Expressed Breast Milk
Expressed breast milk should be collected in airtight BPA-free plastic containers or dedicated breast milk storage bags and stored at the appropriate temperature.
As a general guide:
- Room temperature below 25°C: Up to 6 hours
- Refrigerator at 4°C or below: Up to 24 hours
- Deep freezer at -18°C or below: Up to 6 months
Where Should Breast Milk Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
Avoid storing breast milk in the refrigerator door shelves. The temperature can fluctuate when the door is opened and closed.
Instead, place the containers towards the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is more stable and colder.
How to Use Frozen Breast Milk
Frozen breast milk should not be heated directly or placed in a microwave. Excessive or uneven heating can affect the quality of the milk and may create hot spots.
To thaw frozen breast milk safely:
- Transfer the frozen milk from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before it is needed.
- Allow it to thaw gradually in the refrigerator.
- Before feeding, place the container in a bowl of lukewarm water to bring the milk to a suitable temperature.
- Once thawed, use the milk within 24 hours.
- Do not refreeze breast milk once it has been completely thawed.
If the baby has already started drinking from the bottle, any leftover milk should be used within 2 hours. If it is not used within this period, it should be discarded.
Important Tips When Giving Expressed Breast Milk
1. Label the Milk With the Date and Time
Always write the date and time of pumping on the breast milk storage bag or container.
Follow the first-in, first-out principle—use the milk that was expressed first before using the more recently stored milk.
2. If a Layer of Fat Forms on Top
When breast milk is refrigerated or frozen, the fat may naturally separate and form a layer on the surface.
Before feeding, gently swirl the container to mix the milk. Do not shake it vigorously.
3. Continue Direct Breastfeeding When You Are Home
Whenever possible, mothers can breastfeed their babies directly after returning from work.
Direct breastfeeding not only provides nourishment but can also help strengthen the emotional bond between mother and baby.
Breastfeeding and Returning to Work: Planning Makes It Easier
Balancing work and motherhood may not always be easy, but with the right information, planning, and support, working mothers can continue to provide breast milk even after returning to work. Proper breast milk pumping and storage can help ensure that babies continue to receive the nutritional and protective benefits of breast milk when their mothers are away.
Guidance from experienced Pediatrics and Neonatology specialists in Calicut can also help parents understand breastfeeding, infant nutrition, and newborn care based on their baby’s individual needs. At Aster MIMS Calicut, the Department of Neonatology and Pediatrics provides comprehensive care and support for newborns, infants, and growing children.
With the right support and preparation, mothers can confidently balance their professional responsibilities with their breastfeeding journey, ensuring their little ones receive the care and nourishment they need.
