Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Does frozen breast milk still have antibodies?

Does frozen breast milk still have antibodies?

The Antibody Content of Frozen Breast Milk
Breast milk is often hailed as the gold standard for infant nutrition, providing not only essential nutrients but also a robust array of antibodies that help bolster an infant’s immune system. However, many parents wonder about the efficacy of frozen breast milk, particularly regarding its antibody content.
Freezing and Antibody Preservation
Research indicates that while freezing breast milk is a practical method for long-term storage, it can affect the quality of the milk over time. The freezing process does not completely eliminate antibodies; however, it may reduce their effectiveness. Studies suggest that the immunological benefits of breast milk, including antibodies, can diminish when the milk is frozen for extended periods.
Experts have noted that while frozen breast milk retains many of its nutritional components, the antibody levels may not be as high as those found in fresh milk. This is particularly relevant for antibodies that are crucial for protecting infants against infections. Some anecdotal evidence from breastfeeding communities suggests that fresh milk is preferable whenever possible, as frozen milk may lose some of its antibody properties.
Specific Antibodies and Their Longevity
Interestingly, certain antibodies, such as those generated in response to infections like COVID-19, have been shown to persist in breast milk for several months after maternal infection or vaccination. For instance, studies have found that antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 can remain detectable in breast milk for at least six months, with some evidence suggesting they may still be present ten months later. This highlights that while freezing may impact the overall antibody content, specific antibodies can remain viable for significant periods, depending on the circumstances of maternal health.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective
In summary, frozen breast milk does still contain antibodies, but the extent and effectiveness of these antibodies may be reduced compared to fresh milk. For parents looking to provide the best possible nutrition and immune support for their infants, using fresh breast milk is ideal when available. However, frozen breast milk remains a valuable resource, especially when fresh milk is not an option. The presence of specific antibodies, particularly those related to recent infections or vaccinations, underscores the continued importance of breast milk in supporting infant health, even after freezing.

Does freeze drying breast milk preserve antibodies?

Decades of studies find freeze drying preserves nutrients and antibodies, which are reduced or lost in breast milk frozen for more than two weeks.

How long does it take for amoxicillin to get into breast milk?

After a single 1 gram oral dose of amoxicillin in 6 women, peak milk amoxicillin levels occurred 4 to 5 hours after the dose. Average milk levels were 0.69 mg/L (range 0.46 to 0.88 mg/L) at 4 hours and 0.81 mg/L (range 0.39 to 1.3 mg/L) at 5 hours after the dose.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

When does breast milk stop producing antibodies?

First, breast milk is full of antibodies. These antibodies are highest in colostrum, the milk your baby receives at birth and during the first few days afterward. The antibodies also continue to be present in your milk the WHOLE time you’re nursing your baby, even if you nurse well into toddlerhood or beyond.

Is frozen breast milk still nutritious?

Properly stored, frozen, and defrosted breast milk will retain its nutritional value.

How long are babies protected by mother’s antibodies?

Most babies do not need both. The maternal RSV vaccine (Pfizer’s Abrysvo) is given during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy. Maternal antibodies protect the baby against RSV for approximately 6 months after birth. An RSV antibody (nirsevimab) can be given to babies and some young children.

What are the disadvantages of freezing breast milk?

Deep freezer.
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.

Can a mother pass bacterial infection through breast milk?

In most maternal viral infections, breast milk is not an important mode of transmission, and continuation of breastfeeding is in the best interest of the infant and mother (see Tables 2 and 3). Maternal bacterial infections rarely are complicated by transmission of infection to their infants through breast milk.

Will my baby get antibiotics through breast milk?

Antibiotic usage is fairly common among breastfeeding mothers and there is potential for transfer to infants through breast milk. While most medicines taken by lactating women cause no harm to their babies, at times it can result in serious consequences.

Does freezing milk destroy nutrients?

People can freeze most milk, including breast milk or human milk. Frozen milk retains its nutritional profile when it thaws, and the sooner someone freezes it, the better the milk quality after thawing. The enzymes and fat-soluble vitamins it contains may decrease very slightly but largely remain the same.

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.

Leave a Comment