When to label breastmilk AM or PM?

Understanding the Timing of Breastmilk: AM vs. PM
Breastfeeding is a deeply personal and often complex journey for new mothers, and one aspect that has garnered attention is the distinction between morning (AM) and evening (PM) breastmilk. This differentiation is not merely a matter of labeling; it reflects significant variations in the composition of breastmilk throughout the day, influenced by the body’s natural circadian rhythms.
The Science Behind Breastmilk Composition
Research indicates that breastmilk is subject to diurnal rhythm variability, meaning its composition changes depending on the time of day. For instance, morning breastmilk tends to have higher concentrations of certain stimulating compounds, such as cortisol, which can help wake a baby and promote alertness. In contrast, evening breastmilk is believed to contain increased levels of melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep. This melatonin-rich PM milk may help infants settle down for the night, aligning with their developing circadian rhythms.
Implications for Feeding
For mothers who are pumping and storing breastmilk, labeling milk as AM or PM can serve practical purposes. By indicating the time of day on stored milk, caregivers can make informed decisions about when to feed their babies. For example, using PM milk during nighttime feedings may enhance the baby’s sleep quality due to its melatonin content. This practice not only aids in optimizing the nutritional benefits of breastmilk but also supports the baby’s natural sleep-wake cycles.
Practical Considerations
While the scientific basis for distinguishing between AM and PM breastmilk is compelling, it is essential for mothers to consider their own routines and the needs of their babies. Some may find it beneficial to label their milk based on the time it was expressed, while others might prioritize convenience over strict adherence to this practice. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that the baby receives the best possible nutrition, regardless of the specific timing of the milk.
In conclusion, the decision to label breastmilk as AM or PM can be a valuable tool for mothers looking to optimize their baby’s feeding schedule and sleep patterns. Understanding the differences in breastmilk composition throughout the day empowers parents to make informed choices that align with their child’s developmental needs.

What is the 2 hour rule for breast milk?

If your baby did not finish the bottle, leftover milk should be used within 2 hours. Wash disassembled pump and feeding parts in a clean basin with soap and water. Do not wash directly in the sink because the germs in the sink could contaminate items.

Can you mix AM and PM breast milk?

It’s okay to combine milk that’s pumped on the same day, but don’t mix milk that was pumped on different days. Some moms use the “pitcher method,” which means they store all the breast milk they pump over 24 hours in one refrigerated, closed container.

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 I mix breast milk from different hours?

As long as both milks are at the same temperature and that the mixture is used within 24 hours. If you mix freshly expressed milk, which is warm, with frozen milk you can alter the nutritional properties of the milk due to the change in temperature.

Does 5am breast milk have melatonin?

A: Melatonin levels in breast milk naturally increase during the night, peaking between 3-5am. This is because melatonin is involved in regulating sleep-wake cycles and is produced more at night.

What time does PM breast milk start?

Breast milk clearly exhibits a 24-hour pattern, with melatonin concentrations high during the evening and night (starting about 9pm and peaking between 2 and 3am) but are barely detectable in daytime milk.

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.

How do you label breast milk time?

container. Write the date and time of the collection on the label. Be sure to write clearly. Give the breastmilk to the nurse or clinical assistant, who will check the seal and make sure the label is correct.

Is there a difference between AM and PM breastmilk?

Concentration in human milk of another hormone, Leptin, is significantly higher during 10 pm and 4 am compared to 10 am−10 pm (37). Lipids increase in the morning, reach a peak from midday to evening, and reach lower values at night (38–40).

Do you need to label breastmilk AM or PM?

Be sure to write the date and time on the storage bags/bottles. Breast milk is richest in fat in the morning (after a good night’s sleep), so you may want to save the morning pumped milk to give to the baby before bed to help the baby sleep longer (Hogg 117).