When to introduce the bottle is up to the parents; however, Moore recommends waiting until the baby reaches four to six weeks of age. For babies that dislike bottles, Moore says to try alternative feeding methods such as a medicine spoon or small cup. A lactation consultant can show parents how to introduce alternative feeding methods.
5. Follow safety precautions for breast milk storage.
Before expressing breast milk, ensure that your hands are clean and all of the pump parts and storage containers have been well cleaned. Breast milk can be stored in bottles with tight-fitting lids or storage bags. Avoid using plastic bottle bags for storing breast milk, as they are not as strong or durable. Moore says many freshly expressed breast milk can be kept at room temperature for six to eight hours. It can be refrigerated for five days or frozen for six to twelve months. For complete guidelines regarding breast milk storage, visit the website for the U.S. Center for Disease Control.
Erin Moore, IBCLC is an certified lactation consultant, labor doula, and teen educator in North Carolina. She has assisted small and large businesses in creating and implementing policies for breastfeeding mothers. She is writing a book about supporting teen mothers who breastfeed.