Defrosting and reheating breast milk

Warming breast milk appropriately is essential to preserve its nutritional and immunological qualities. Remember, milk is a living liquid. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you warm breast milk safely, based on proven recommendations.

Why avoid the microwave?

It is strongly recommended not to reheat breast milk in the microwave for several reasons:

1. Uneven heating: The microwave heats liquids unevenly, creating hot spots that can burn the baby’s mouth.
2. Nutrient destruction: Microwaving can destroy valuable immunological components of breast milk, such as antibodies and enzymes, reducing its benefits for the baby.

Recommended methods for warming breast milk

Water bath:

• Fill a bowl or container with hot (but not boiling) water.
• Place the container of breast milk in hot water until it reaches the desired temperature.
• Gently shake the container to mix the milk well and ensure an even temperature.

Under running water:

• Hold the container of milk under cold running water and gradually add warmer water until the milk reaches the desired temperature.
• This method is quick and effective, especially for refrigerated milk.

Bottle warmer:

• Use a bottle warmer compatible with breast milk, namely with an adjustable thermostat to warm the milk to the ideal temperature. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid overheating.
• Some bottle warmers are specially designed to preserve the nutritional properties of breast milk.

Defrost breast milk

For frozen milk, slow defrosting is preferable to preserve its qualities:

In the refrigerator:

• The day before, place the quantity of milk needed for the next day in the refrigerator overnight for slow and even defrosting.
• Once thawed, milk can be stored in the refrigerator for 24 hours, but cannot be refrozen.

Under running water:

• Defrost the milk under cold running water, then gradually add hot water until the milk is completely defrosted.
• This method is faster and can be used when you need the milk more quickly.

Practical advice

Check the temperature:

• Before giving milk to your baby, always check the temperature by pouring a few drops onto the inside of your wrist. The milk should be lukewarm, not hot. The temperature of the milk poured onto your wrist should be comfortable for it.

Gentle agitation:

• After warming the milk, gently shake the container to mix in any cream that may have separated from the rest of the milk during storage. This ensures even distribution of fats and nutrients.

Immediate use:

• Warmed breast milk should be used immediately and cannot be refrozen. If your baby doesn’t finish the bottle, unfortunately the milk must be thrown away afterwards.

Conclusion

Warming breast milk correctly is crucial to preserving its nutritional qualities and ensuring the safety of your baby. Avoid the microwave and favor methods such as a bain-marie, running water or a bottle warmer compatible with breast milk. By following these tips, you can be sure to provide your baby with milk rich in essential nutrients and antibodies.