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There are so many little things to learn about breastfeeding that it can get overwhelming at times! One of the many questions that mothers may have is about how to store breast milk.
We spoke with Ashleigh Foy, IBCLC, midwife, registered nurse and ABA lactation consultant to understand what retention is, why it’s important and how it affects breastfeeding. The ability to produce breast milk varies from mother to mother. All breasts are different and their ability to produce breast milk may vary depending on how they are stored. That’s why understanding can help you develop the best breastfeeding strategy for you and your baby.
What is the storage capacity of breast milk?
Breast milk storage is the amount of milk available in the breast when it is full. Contrary to what many people believe, this ability does not depend on the size of the breasts but on the area found in the muscles that produce milk.
Comparing a mother’s milk storage capacity with breast size is not possible. Every woman has a unique amount of fatty tissue and milk-producing glands. Research shows a large variation, with some women having as few as three lobules/ducts while others have as many as fifteen.
How does storage affect breastfeeding?
An example that Ashleigh uses to explain the power of breast milk storage is as follows: There are two mothers with one-year-old children who have stable milk supply. One woman can store 75ml of milk in her breast, while the other can store 150ml. All children consume 750ml of milk per day. A mother with low energy reserves will need to breastfeed more often to meet her baby’s needs, while a mother with more energy will not feed as often.
Both children receive the milk they need to grow well, but their diet is different. Problems can arise when women are given general advice, such as breastfeeding eight times in 24 hours or following traditional breastfeeding and sleep patterns that do not make this difference. A mother who has low energy levels in following these guidelines may have a hungry baby and low milk supply because the breasts are not pumped frequently enough to stimulate production.
Mothers with high storage capacity are more likely to adjust their feeding times, while those with low storage capacity need to feed more frequently to avoid satiety and retain milk. In general, babies feed 8-12 times in 24 hours, and removing the milk often in the first weeks is important for a long-term supply of milk. Ashleigh shares,
“The best advice a new mother can follow is to pay attention to her diet.”
Can you add storage?
Although it is not possible to increase the storage capacity, it does not affect the total milk production. There is another idea that the storage capacity can increase with the next pregnancy when the glandular tissue grows. It is important to remember that your ability to store milk does not affect your ability to breastfeed well; it just depends on how much your baby wants or needs to feed.
Understanding and adapting to energy storage
As milk storage capacity varies, it emphasizes the importance of personal care and understanding your baby’s needs. Trusting that your body can support your baby and seeking help when needed are essential to successful breastfeeding. Whether your storage space is high or low, with the right approach, you can ensure that your child’s needs are met.
By understanding and adjusting your breast milk storage capacity, you can create a feeding strategy that works best for you and your baby. Monitoring your baby’s feedings, feeding on demand, and being aware of nappy leaks (making sure the nappies are wet and dirty) Ashleigh says are key signs of a good breastfeeding relationship. If you have concerns about dairy consumption, professional help can provide personalized, evidence-based solutions.
Breast milk production reflects the difference in each mother’s breastfeeding journey. Understanding and adapting as much as possible can help you create a feeding strategy that ensures your baby’s growth and development. Trust that your body can support your baby and seek help when needed. With the right approach, you can enjoy successful and satisfying breastfeeding experiences.
By recognizing and responding to your baby’s needs, you can develop a breastfeeding routine that works for both of you, ensuring that your baby grows well.
Other blogs that may help you:
How to deal with backsliding while breastfeeding: expert advice and tips
Understanding group breastfeeding: The basics of breastfeeding success
Help – I think I’m low on milk!