Tip #1

1. Why Nursing Frequently and On-Demand Boosts Your Milk Supply

Nursing every 2–3 hours, or whenever your baby shows signs of hunger, is one of the best ways to build and maintain a strong milk supply. Here’s why it’s so beneficial:

• Milk Supply is a "Use it or Lose it" System: Breastfeeding works on a supply-and-demand basis. The more your baby nurses, the more signals your body gets to make milk. When your baby feeds frequently, it lets your body know that this milk is needed, helping you produce the amount your baby needs.

• Early Frequent Nursing Builds Your Supply: During those first weeks, your body is learning how much milk to make. Nursing frequently early on trains your body to keep up with your baby’s demands as they grow, building a steady, reliable supply.

• Prevents Fullness and Keeps You Comfortable: Regular, on-demand feeding keeps your breasts from becoming overly full, which can cause discomfort, clogged ducts, or even a drop in supply. Nursing often keeps everything flowing smoothly and helps you stay comfortable.

• Gives Your Baby Exactly What They Need: Newborns have tiny tummies and breast milk digests quickly, so they need to eat frequently to stay full and hydrated. This frequent nursing also helps regulate their body temperature, breathing, and heart rate—and creates bonding time for you both.

• Supports Growth Spurts and Cluster Feeding: Babies go through phases where they want to nurse more often—known as “cluster feeding.” This can feel like constant feeding, but it’s actually your baby’s natural way of boosting your supply to meet their growing needs.

While frequent nursing can feel overwhelming, it's a powerful way to support your milk supply. If you’re feeling unsure or need a little guidance, a lactation consultant can help you feel confident and on track.

Breast Milk Storage Guidelines: Tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

Storing breast milk safely is key to making sure your baby gets all the nutrients they need. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has specific guidelines to help parents keep breast milk fresh and safe for feeding. Here’s a quick look at the AAP’s milk storage recommendations:

Freshly Pumped Breast Milk:

• Room Temperature: Safe for up to 4 hours if the room is cool (up to 77°F / 25°C).

• Insulated Cooler with Ice Packs: Good for up to 24 hours. This is helpful for travel or outings!

Refrigerated Breast Milk:

• In the Refrigerator: Fresh milk can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it toward the back where it’s coldest, not on the door.

Frozen Breast Milk:

• In a Standard Freezer: Store milk in the freezer for up to 6 months for best quality, or up to 12 months if necessary. Use it sooner if you can for the best nutrition.

Tip: When freezing, leave some room in the container for the milk to expand. Label with the date and use the oldest milk first.

Thawed Breast Milk:

• In the Refrigerator: Thawed milk is good for up to 24 hours. Do not refreeze milk that’s already been thawed.

• At Room Temperature: Use within 1–2 hours if it’s already been warmed.

Remember: Always swirl, not shake, breast milk to mix the fat back in before feeding. And warm the milk safely by placing the container in warm water or under warm running water—never use a microwave.

Following these guidelines helps ensure your milk stays fresh and nutritious for your little one. If you need more support with milk storage or any breastfeeding questions, reach out to a lactation consultant!