Why does my breastmilk smell off?

Understanding Off Smells in Breast Milk
Breast milk is often described as having a sweet, mild scent, but many mothers report experiencing an “off” smell in their expressed milk. This phenomenon can be concerning, but it is important to understand the underlying causes and implications.
Common Causes of Off Smells
1. Lipase Activity: One of the most common reasons for an unusual smell in breast milk is the presence of excess lipase, an enzyme that helps break down fats. When breast milk is expressed and stored, lipase can continue to act on the milk, leading to a fishy or soapy odor. This is particularly noticeable if the milk is stored for an extended period. While this change in smell can be off-putting, it does not indicate that the milk is unsafe for consumption. However, some babies may reject milk with a strong scent due to the altered flavor .
2. Oxidation: Another factor that can contribute to an off smell is oxidation. This occurs when the milk is exposed to air, which can lead to changes in its composition and result in a soapy or rancid odor. This is a natural process that can happen even when the milk is handled properly.
3. Dietary Influences: What a mother eats can also affect the smell of her breast milk. Foods with strong odors, such as garlic, onions, or certain spices, can impart their scents to the milk. This is a normal occurrence and varies from one individual to another.
4. Storage Conditions: The way breast milk is stored can impact its smell. If milk is not stored in airtight containers or is kept at improper temperatures, it may develop an off odor. Proper storage techniques are essential to maintain the quality of expressed milk.
What to Do If Your Milk Smells Off
If you notice that your breast milk has an unusual smell, there are a few steps you can take:
– Scalding the Milk: To reduce the activity of lipase, some mothers choose to scald their milk shortly after expressing it. This process involves heating the milk to just below boiling, which can help preserve its flavor and scent.
– Monitor Storage Practices: Ensure that you are using clean, airtight containers and storing the milk in the coldest part of the refrigerator or freezer to minimize oxidation and spoilage.
– Consult a Professional: If you have concerns about the smell of your breast milk or if your baby is refusing to drink it, it may be helpful to consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Conclusion
While an off smell in breast milk can be alarming, it is often a normal occurrence related to lipase activity, oxidation, dietary choices, or storage methods. Understanding these factors can help mothers manage their expressed milk effectively, ensuring that it remains safe and nutritious for their babies. If in doubt, seeking professional guidance can provide reassurance and support.

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 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.

Does breastmilk lose nutrients when pumped?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), freshly expressed breast milk can be safely kept at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. Generally, when freshly pumped, breast milk is at its peak regarding nutrients.

How to tell if breast milk is spoiled?

It will also smell bad, much like spoiled cow’s milk. And, like spoiled cow’s milk, breast milk that’s old will taste sour. (It’s fine to taste your breast milk to check!) Always label your pumped milk with a time and date so you can tell how old it is.

What is the 6 6 6 rule for breast milk?

Rule #2: The Breast Milk Storage Guidelines.
Or the 6-6-6 rule. Basically, breast milk is good at room temperature for 4 or 6 hours, in the refrigerator for 4 or 6 days, and in the freezer for 4 or 6 or 12 months.

What are the symptoms of a high lipase level?

What are the symptoms of high lipase? Symptoms depend on what’s causing your high lipase. For example, the most common symptom of acute pancreatitis is abdominal pain that radiates to your lower back. Other symptoms, like fever and nausea, may also signal a condition associated with high lipase levels.

How to tell if breast milk has high lipase?

The longer milk is kept at room temperature or even in the refrigerator before being frozen, the more lipase activity it will have. Milk that has a high level of lipase can develop a soapy smell and taste, but is not harmful to the baby.

Why does my breast milk smell weird?

Some mums notice that their expressed milk has an ‘off’ or soapy smell and taste, even when they have handled it cleanly. This can be caused by oxidation following the normal action of enzymes in the milk designed to help the baby digest the milk fats. This problem doesn’t make the milk unsafe.

Why does my milk smell bad?

Milk spoils due to an overgrowth of bacteria that compromises its quality. You know your milk is spoiled if it has an unpleasant odor or taste or changes texture.

What happens if a baby drinks bad breast milk?

This bacteria can cause digestive tract infections such as diarrhea. If a baby has diarrhea, he will become more fussy and become dehydrated. Because, a lot of fluid comes out of his body. If something like this happens, immediately take it to the doctor so the baby can get help.