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Can I give my 4 month old frozen breast milk for teething?

Can I Give My 4-Month-Old Frozen Breast Milk for Teething?
As parents navigate the challenges of teething, many seek effective and safe remedies to alleviate their baby’s discomfort. One popular option that has emerged is the use of frozen breast milk, often in the form of popsicles, to soothe sore gums. But is it safe and appropriate for a 4-month-old?
The Benefits of Frozen Breast Milk for Teething
Frozen breast milk can be a soothing treat for teething infants. At around 4 to 6 months of age, babies are typically beginning to experience the discomfort associated with teething, which can include swollen gums and irritability. Offering frozen breast milk in a popsicle form can provide relief by numbing the gums and delivering the nutritional benefits of breast milk at the same time.
Breast milk popsicles are not only safe but also beneficial. They can help relieve teething pain, soothe sore throats, and serve as a healthy treat for babies. The cold temperature can provide immediate comfort, while the breast milk itself continues to be a vital source of nutrition for your baby.
How to Offer Frozen Breast Milk Safely
When considering frozen breast milk for your teething baby, it’s essential to use appropriate methods to ensure safety. Many parents opt for mesh feeders, which allow babies to gnaw on the frozen milk without the risk of choking. This method is particularly effective for younger infants who may not yet be ready for solid foods.
It’s important to note that while frozen items can be beneficial, they should not be too hard. The goal is to provide a soothing sensation without risking damage to the baby’s delicate gums. Therefore, ensuring that the breast milk is adequately frozen but not rock-solid is key.
Timing and Preparation
For parents wondering about the right time to introduce frozen breast milk, the consensus is that starting around 4 months is appropriate. This aligns with the age when many babies begin teething and can handle the sensory experience of a popsicle. To prepare, simply freeze expressed breast milk in popsicle molds or ice cube trays, and then place the frozen milk into a mesh feeder for your baby to enjoy.
Conclusion
In summary, giving your 4-month-old frozen breast milk can be a safe and effective way to help ease the discomfort of teething. By using mesh feeders and ensuring the milk is appropriately frozen, parents can provide their little ones with a soothing treat that also supports their nutritional needs. As always, it’s advisable to consult with a pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s diet or teething process.

Is frozen breast milk ok for teething?

To make Momsicles, use a small enough mold so they can fit in a mesh food or teething feeder. This allows small pieces of the frozen breastmilk to get through to prevent baby from choking on any larger chunks that may break off. Ice cube trays that make small cubes work well.

Can I give my 4 month old frozen breast milk?

Frozen breast milk should be used within 3 months if it is stored in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator. Milk stored in a deep freezer is good for 6 months. Remember to label the breast milk with the date that you pumped it. Thaw milk in the refrigerator or in warm water just before feeding.

Can I let my 4 month old taste a popsicle?

Did you know that you can introduce your baby to a breastmilk or formula popsicle as early as 4 months? Here are some tips for starting your little one on frozen pops! Breastmilk or formula popsicles can be an exciting sensory experience while offering age-appropriate nutrition at the 4-month mark.

Can I give my 4 month old frozen fruit for teething?

Remember: frozen foods are only a safe option for babies who have already started solids (usually over the age of 6 months).

Does cold breastmilk upset baby’s stomach?

Is it safe to feed babies cold milk? Yes, it’s safe to feed your baby cold milk. In fact, frozen breast milk can be used as a form of pain relief for teething babies!

Does frozen breastmilk still have antibodies?

Frozen Breast Milk Retains Most of Its Nutrients
Previously frozen breast milk has similar nutrient and antibody content to fresh milk. It does lose a small amount of those qualities but can still provide a baby with the nutrition it needs.

When can you give frozen breast milk for teething?

Give to babies over 6 months. Use a mini popsicle mold like this one – do not use an adult sized one.

Can 4 month old drink cold breast milk?

Breast milk does not need to be warmed. It can be served room temperature or cold.

Can my 4 month old drink breast milk?

Exclusive breastfeeding (breast milk only) is recommended for around the first 6 months of your baby’s life.

Can I give breastmilk popsicle to a 4 month old?

The Tiny Pops can be filled with breastmilk / formula (for 4+ months) as well as smoothies, purees, and more (for 6+ months). The handle of the Tiny Pop is short, fat, and round, making it easy for baby to grasp and hold independently. Check out my blog for more tips about using popsicles with your baby.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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