Thawing Frozen Breast Milk

1.

Check the date. Use the container with the earliest date first.

2.

Thaw in the refrigerator for 4 – 24 hours or

3.

Place container under cool running water. Once it has begun to thaw, run warm water to finish thawing.

4.

Never thaw at room temperature.

5.

Warm in a bowl of very warm water for no more than 15 minutes.

6.

Do not use the stove or in the microwave. Never refreeze breast milk once it has thawed.

Feeding Tips

Before you feed:

• Shake warmed breast milk well.
• Test the temperature on the inside of your wrist.
• If it feels too warm, let it cool before offering it to your baby.

During the feeding:

• Hold your baby close in an upright position.
• Make feedings a warm, positive experience. Talk softly and smile to your baby.
• Watch your baby swallow.
• Allow baby to pause and rest as needed.
• Burp your baby when they seem uncomfortable or gassy.
• Use breast milk within 2 hours once warmed.

Knowing when to stop:

• Stop feeding your baby when baby shows signs of being full (looks sleepy and calm, turning away, slowing down, relaxed hands).

After feeding:

• Use any leftover milk within 2 hours after the feeding ends and throw away what your baby does not finish.
• Never put your baby to bed with a bottle.

If you have questions about breastfeeding, visit a free breastfeeding clinic and/or call and ask to speak with a Public Health Nurse at 416-338-7600.