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What temperature should breast milk be for a newborn?

The Ideal Temperature for Newborn Breast Milk
When it comes to feeding newborns, ensuring that breast milk is at the right temperature is crucial for both safety and comfort. The ideal temperature for breast milk is around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius), which is approximately the same as the human body temperature. This temperature not only mimics the natural warmth of freshly expressed milk but also ensures that the milk retains its nutritional and immunological properties, which are vital for a newborn’s development.
Why Temperature Matters
Feeding a newborn milk that is too cold can be uncomfortable for them, as their digestive systems are still developing. Conversely, warming breast milk to temperatures above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) can lead to a deterioration of its nutritional value. This is particularly important for parents to consider, as overheating breast milk can compromise its benefits.
How to Warm Breast Milk Safely
For parents looking to warm breast milk, there are several effective methods. One popular approach is the wrist test, where caregivers can drop a few drops of warmed milk on their wrist to gauge its temperature. This method is practical and helps avoid the use of thermometers, which may not always be handy.
Additionally, breast milk can be warmed using a bottle warmer or by placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water. It’s essential to avoid using a microwave, as it can create hot spots in the milk that may burn the baby’s mouth.
Conclusion
In summary, the optimal temperature for feeding breast milk to a newborn is around 98.6°F (37°C). This ensures that the milk is not only safe and comfortable for the baby but also preserves its essential nutrients. Parents should be mindful of warming techniques to maintain the quality of breast milk while providing a soothing feeding experience for their little ones.

How warm should breast milk be for a newborn?

Babies milk should be at blood temperature – approx 37 deg Celcius or 98.5 deg Farenheit. This can be tested by dropping a few drops on the inside of your wrist – if it feels hot or cold it is the wrong temperature.

What are the rules for pumped breast milk?

After each pumping, you can:

  • Keep milk at room temperature. Breastmilk is OK for up to 4 hours after pumping at room temperature (up to 77°F).
  • Refrigerate it. Breastmilk is OK in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Place milk in the freezer.
  • Use cooler packs.

Does cold milk make babies gassy?

Does cold milk cause gas? Cold breast milk or formula may cause discomfort and gas in babies with digestion issues or stomach sensitivities. However, such occurrences are quite rare. If you’re concerned about your babies gas or digestive health, we encourage you to consult your pediatrician.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

What temperature should a baby drink breast milk at?

99 degrees Fahrenheit
To warm your milk, place the breast milk bottle or bag into a cup, jug or bowl of lukewarm water for a few minutes to bring it to body temperature (37 degrees Celsius or 99 degrees Fahrenheit). Alternatively, use a bottle warmer. Do not allow the temperature to go above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘SHpoZ9jFL7e05NoPjrHMqAU__31′,’

Can newborns drink cold breast milk?

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

Do warm bottles help with gas?

The warmth may help relax the stomach muscles, reducing pressure and releasing air bubbles. Just be sure to test the temperature and make sure it’s not too hot.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

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

What is the best temperature for newborn milk?

98.6 degrees Fahrenheit
Put the bottle under cold running water or in an ice bath to cool. The formula should be at body temperature, 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). Test that the formula is lukewarm — not hot — by putting drops on your wrist or the back of your hand.

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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