7) WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO STORE PRE-PUMPED BREASTMILK?
If the mother is at work, they can pump out milk and store it in the fridge (at about 4°C). Before consumption, they may warm the milk up to their body temperature – ie 37°C. If the milk is not consumed within the day, please store it in freezer.
Mothers can also store their milk in the deep freezer (at about -20°C) for six months to a year.
Note: Mothers are advised to taste the milk before feeding the baby, if she is not sure of the quality of the frozen milk.
8) HOW SHOULD YOU MANAGE BREASTFEEDING WHEN YOU ARE SICK? IS IT ADVISABLE TO HOLD A BABY THAT CLOSE WHEN DOWN WITH AN INFECTION?
It is fine if the mummies are having common flu. If the mothers are too tired, she can lie down and breastfeed. For other illnesses, she should seek medical advice. Mummies who develop breast abscess should also avoid direct breastfeeding to make sure there’s no pus in the milk.
9) IF A BABY DRINKS BREAST MILK FROM A BOTTLE BUT DOES NOT FINISH IT, CAN A MUM STORE THAT IN THE REFRIGERATOR AND HEAT IT UP AGAIN WITHIN THE NEXT FOUR HOURS?
Unfinished milk should be stored at room temperature and must be consumed within an hour. Again, mothers are recommended to taste the milk before giving it to the baby. Alternatively, in order not to waste good milk, unfinished breast milk can also be used as a facial base! And milk that has gone bad is actually suitable to be used as a foot bath.
10) ENGORGEMENT SEEMS TO HAPPEN TO ALL BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS AT ONE POINT OR ANOTHER. DOES THE INCIDENCE OF ENGORGEMENT DECREASE WITH GREATER EXPERIENCE?
Breast engorgement usually happens on the third or fourth day after delivery. There are two types of engorgement:
- Milk engorgement – those with engorgement problems can seek help from lactation consultants. Gentle breast massage and relaxation techniques may help to improve milk flow and reduce engorgement.
- Venous engorgement – this means there is no milk supply and you have bleeding symptoms. Mothers who are experiencing this are required to seek medical advice.
ESSENTIAL CONFINEMENT HERBS
Cordyceps is a well-known traditional Chinese herb that helps to strengthen one’s constitution. It helps to tonify the lung and the kidney. It’s commonly used in confinement to boost immunity and energy levels.
Fructus Jujubae (Dazao) are known for nourishing the blood and easing the mind. It helps mothers to overcome fatigue and promote emotional well-being.
Ginseng has been used for more than 4,000 years. Its benefits include reinforcing the vital energy, remedying collapse and restoring the normal pulse, promoting the production of body fluid, and to calm the nerves.
Apart from blackening the hair, Radix Polygoni Multiflori Preparata (Zhiheshouwu) can help to replenish the liver and the kidney with vital essence and blood, as well as to strengthen the tendons and bones.
Cortex Eucommiae (Duzhong) is used to invigorate the liver and kidney, and strengthen the tendons and bones. It helps mothers to recover from childbirth.
Radix Angelicae Sinensis (Danggui) is good for promoting blood circulation and nourishing blood supply. It also helps to relieve pain and relax bowels.