Can I give baby frozen breast milk for teething?

Can I Give Baby Frozen Breast Milk for Teething?
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, often causing discomfort and irritability as new teeth push through sensitive gums. One popular remedy that has emerged among parents is the use of frozen breast milk, particularly in the form of popsicles, to soothe teething pain. But is this practice safe and effective?
The Benefits of Frozen Breast Milk Popsicles
Frozen breast milk popsicles are not only a delightful treat for babies but also serve as a practical solution for teething discomfort. According to various sources, these popsicles can help relieve pain associated with teething, soothe sore throats, and provide a healthy snack option for little ones. The cold temperature can numb the gums, offering immediate relief from the discomfort that often accompanies teething.
Parents have reported success using mesh feeders filled with frozen breast milk, allowing babies to gnaw on the popsicle while minimizing the risk of choking. This method is particularly beneficial for infants who are not yet eating solid foods, as it introduces them to new textures and temperatures in a safe manner.
When to Introduce Frozen Breast Milk Popsicles
Experts suggest that breast milk popsicles can be introduced as early as 4 to 6 months of age, coinciding with the typical onset of teething. This timing aligns well with developmental milestones, as babies begin to explore their environment and experience discomfort from emerging teeth. However, it is essential for parents to monitor their child’s reaction and ensure that the popsicles are offered in a safe manner, avoiding any potential hazards associated with frozen items.
Safety Considerations
While frozen breast milk popsicles can be beneficial, some parents express concerns about the safety of giving frozen items to babies. It is generally advised to avoid giving anything too hard or frozen directly to infants, as it could pose a choking risk. Using mesh feeders can mitigate this risk, allowing babies to enjoy the soothing effects of the cold without the danger of biting off large pieces.
Additionally, parents should ensure that the breast milk used is properly stored and thawed to maintain its nutritional quality. Breast milk can be frozen for several months, but it should be thawed in the refrigerator or under running water, never at room temperature, to prevent bacterial growth.
Conclusion
In summary, giving frozen breast milk popsicles to soothe teething pain is a safe and effective method for many parents. These popsicles not only provide relief but also introduce babies to new sensory experiences. As always, parents should exercise caution and monitor their child while they enjoy this frozen treat, ensuring that it is presented in a safe manner. With the right approach, frozen breast milk can be a comforting ally during the teething phase.

Can I give my baby old frozen breast milk?

Deep freezers and chest freezers may be colder than 0°F. Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best.

Why not to give baby cold breastmilk?

There’s no harm in giving your baby cold milk. “It is not necessary to warm your breastmilk and can be served cold or room temperature. Although, some babies may have a preference,” says Wendi Andria, MSN, RNC-OB, IBCLC, a lactation specialist from South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, New York.

Can frozen breast milk help a sick baby?

You may also consider freezing some of your pumped breast milk until it’s slushy and then feeding it to your little one with a spoon or cup – the cold, slushy mixture may provide some relief for a sore throat while providing the important antibodies and nutrients he or she needs from your breast milk.

Can a 3 month old have a breast milk popsicle?

Breastmilk or formula popsicles can be an exciting sensory experience while offering age-appropriate nutrition at the 4-month mark. It’s also a great way to practice self-feeding before transitioning to solids (at 6 months + showing signs of readiness).

What helps teething pain while breastfeeding?

While nursing
If you sense your baby is slowing down his or her feeding, fidgeting, shifting the tongue, or tightening the jaw, unlatch your baby and offer him or her a cold washcloth or teething toy to relieve discomfort. After your baby has had a chance to bite or chew, try breastfeeding again.

How to freeze breastmilk for teether?

A: You can freeze the Breastmilk in it by standing it in your freezer instead of slanting… ie put in a Zip lock bag so excess milk will fall into it before it finally freeze.

Is it safe to give baby frozen breast milk for teething?

Breastmilk Popsicles for Teething Babies
Since the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends waiting to start solid food until your baby is 6 months old to lower the possibility of food allergies, Momsicles are perfect for babies who start teething earlier.

Why can’t you use frozen breastmilk after 6 months?

Keep in mind that research suggests that the longer you store breast milk — whether in the refrigerator or in the freezer — the greater the loss of vitamin C in the milk. It’s also important to note that your breast milk changes to meet your baby’s needs.

When should you not use frozen breast milk?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of a deep freezer for up to 12 months. However, using the frozen milk within six months is optimal.

Does cold breast milk help with teething?

Natural Remedies. Freezing breast milk into ice cubes can help calm your child’s sore gums. Pour the breastmilk into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, smash up the ice cubes into smaller bites and offer them in a teething mesh or baby feeder.