How long does breast milk last in the fridge?

Breastmilk can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge. Breastmilk can also be stored for up to 6 months. However, once defrosted any remaining breastmilk will need to be discarded. It is also recommended that all stored milk is correctly labelled and dated before freezing. 

How to increase breast milk supply?

In accordance with ABA, Breastmilk is built on Supply & a Demand basis. By increasing the number of feeds and pumping between feeds, your breasts see this as a need for more milk, increasing supply. It is also suggested that you only end a feed once the bub has unlatched itself, early finishes can cause a decrease in supply. 

How to rebuild my breast milk supply?

Similar to increasing supply, rebuilding your supply works on a similar basis of supply/demand. By increasing your feeds & expressing whilst staying hydrated and nourished with lactogenic your milk should see an increase/return. However, it is also recommended that if you have finished breastfeeding & looking to start again that you consult your local Gp or Lactation Consultant. 

When does a woman begin to lactate?

Breastmilk can start as early as midway through your pregnancy, at about 16 weeks gestation. From 16 weeks until about 3 days postpartum the creamy yellow substance is your colostrum; full of antibodies, to help boost bubs immune system. After the first 3 days, your breast milk will turn into a more matured milky and watery substance. 

How to induce lactation?

Similar to supply, emptying your best & increasing the demand is the best way to build/induce lactation. It is also encouraged to maintain hydrated, sleep well & increase your diet with lactogenic ingredients (like Lactation Tea, Cookies or Hot Chocolate) to help stimulate supply. By regularly stimulating your supply every 6 hours and increasing the body's fuel of lactogenic ingredients, you should see milk induced within 6-8 weeks.

What is lactation?

Lactation is the natural production of milk made by humans through the mammary gland. It is hormones of prolactin which is overproduced and results in breastmilk.