Storing breast milk?

jlb08

I know that there are general rules about how long you can store breast milk, but what about switching temperatures? I have been storing a couple bottles in the fridge (they were pumped 6 days ago now) and I'm realizing I probably won't need them in the next day or two. Do I have to throw them out or is it safe to put them in the freezer as long as I do it asap? 

I'm new to pumping, so still trying to figure all this out. Thanks! 

globalwife

I don't think it is a good idea to freeze it now that so much time has passed. Here's an idea though: go ahead and use the milk during the next feedings and while your LO is drinking it, you can pump fresh milk to freeze.

cottonlily84

Medela says refrigerated BM can last for 3-8 days (why the wide range IDK) so if yours was pumped 6 days ago you have maybe 2 more days.  And after it's thawed you have 24 hours to use it so you should still be in the 8 day range. 

tosababy

I'd freeze it.

njh514

globalwife:

I don't think it is a good idea to freeze it now that so much time has passed. Here's an idea though: go ahead and use the milk during the next feedings and while your LO is drinking it, you can pump fresh milk to freeze.

This is what I would do, but I don't think freezing it would be bad. I just think that freezing fresh seems like it would be the best option.