I was asked today, "How much of a freezer stash should I have before I go back to work?" This is a really thoughtful and important question. The answer is that you do not necessarily need a large freezer stash, and there's no need to spend extra time trying to build one.

Understanding Breast Milk Production

When you first have a baby, your body starts to produce breast milk. After a few days to a week, the amount of milk you produce is generally determined by supply and demand, with some influence from underlying anatomical and medical conditions. When your baby feeds at the breast, they take the amount of milk they need at that moment and then repeat the process a couple of hours later. By allowing your baby to feed at the breast, your body gets the exact messages about how much milk your baby needs, and over time, your breast milk production will adjust to meet those needs.  Also, this avoids being hooked up to a pump more than necessary and allows you to enjoy your time with your baby while you are with them.

The Role of Pumping and Building a Freezer Stash

The Internet and Social Media have made breastfeeding people think they need to build a freezer stash and that having an overly plentiful milk supply is desirable. Pumping to create a freezer stash signals your body to produce more milk than your baby needs at that moment. While this may seem beneficial, it can lead to issues if you're making a larger breast milk supply than your baby requires. Overproduction can result in blocked ducts, mastitis, nipple blebs, nipple pain, and general breast discomfort.

There are a few situations when having a freezer stash makes sense or is in fact necessary. An example would be when pumping for a premature baby in the NICU, or if you anticipate long periods of separation from your baby in the future (for instance, if you are in the military and are deployed).

But if you’re like most people, you only need to have a few ounces of milk stored for a time when you might be briefly separated from your baby.  You may want some stored milk for bottles if you go on a date night or simply need to get a longer stretch of sleep overnight and you have someone else to take a feeding for you. 

If you are planning to return to work, you do not need to have a large amount of milk for feedings when you are away.  You truly only need enough milk for your baby on your first day back at work.  Then, each day you are at work, you will pump the milk for the next workday's feedings.  In these cases, you can start to pump or hand express small amounts of extra milk once your baby is in a good feeding rhythm.

Managing Breast Milk Production and Avoiding Overproduction

To build a small stash of frozen milk, you could start by pumping once a day after nursing your baby. If you produce a lot of milk, avoid completely emptying your breast when you pump because emptying signals your body to make more milk. Instead, pump a small amount, equivalent to what your baby typically takes in a breastfeeding session, and leave some milk in your breasts to help regulate production.  Time of day doesn't really matter, but you may get the most bang for your buck first thing in the morning.  

Types of Breast Pumps and Pumping Tips

Pumping can be a valuable tool, especially if you need to be away from your baby. Using an electric pump or a manual pump can be used carefully to build a small stash without signaling your body to overproduce. If you are prone to high milk production, managing your pumping sessions carefully is essential to avoid an oversupply.

There are various types of breast pumps available, each with its own benefits. An electric breast pump is efficient and often preferred for regular use, while a manual pump can be useful for occasional pumping. Double pumping can be particularly effective for increasing milk supply but must be balanced to avoid overproduction. You are less likely to over-pump if you use a manual pump.  

Storing Breast Milk and Planning for Separations

Proper breast milk storage is essential. Using a milk container designed for breast milk storage ensures that your milk remains safe. Label each container with the date and time it was pumped to keep track of your supply. If you are working and therefore pumping regularly, always give your baby fresh milk first, then dip into any frozen milk (using the oldest first to avoid milk expiring).  

By pumping small amounts consistently, you can gradually build enough milk for your first day back at work or a bottle for a date night. When you are separated from your baby, you will pump the amount of milk your baby needs for the next day, so you don’t need months’ worth of milk stored. Continuing to lactate and pump at work or when separated will help you maintain the necessary milk supply.

Depending on how long you plan to be away, you may or may not need to pump while out to stay comfortable and maintain milk production (if it is a relatively short period of time you will be separated). If you decide to pump, having a portable electric pump can be convenient, or manual pumps can often fit right in your purse.

The Role of a Lactation Consultant

Working with a lactation consultant can be incredibly helpful in managing your breastfeeding and pumping routine. They can provide personalized advice on building and maintaining your milk supply, addressing any issues that arise, and ensuring that your breastfeeding experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Final Thoughts

For most families, there is no need for a large stockpile of milk. Focus on feeding your baby directly and maintaining a balance that works for both of you. Building a small stash for occasional separations or your first day back at work is usually sufficient and avoids the pitfalls of overproduction. Unless you have a premature or sick baby who isn’t eating large amounts but will need it in the future, if you find yourself shopping for a deep freezer to store your milk, you can most likely put your money towards more postpartum support instead!